Hidden Treasures of Southern Zhejiang: A Poetic Journey Through a Secluded Jiangnan

“Nine parts mountains, half a part water, and half a part farmland” — Lishui, the last hidden gem of Zhejiang, is hailed by *National Geographic* as "the last Shangri-La of Jiangnan." Here, you'll find terraced fields rivaling those of Yunnan and Guizhou, villages more ancient than Wuyuan, and breathtaking landscapes reminiscent of classical Chinese paintings. If you're seeking an escape from the crowds and a tranquil haven, Lishui is your answer. --- 📅 Best Time to Visit - Spring/Autumn (Apr–May, Sep–Nov): - April–May: The Yunhe Rice Terraces are flooded, creating mirror-like reflections of the sky. - September–October: Golden rice paddies paint a picturesque autumn scene, ideal for photography. - Summer (Jun–Aug): A summer retreat with an average temperature of 26°C, but expect occasional showers. - Winter (Dec–Feb): Fewer tourists, offering a serene, ink-painting-like view of snow-covered terraces and ancient villages. --- 🏞️ Must-See Attractions 1. Yunhe Rice Terraces (4A Scenic Area) - The largest terraced fields in East China, known as the "Most Beautiful Rice Terraces in China." - Qixingdun Observation Deck: Catch the sunrise and sea of clouds (arrive before 5am). - Baiyin Valley: Hike through ancient villages and bamboo forests with waterfalls. - Kenggen Stone Village: An 800-year-old village with stone paths and ancient wells. - Tickets: CNY 80 (includes Jiuqu Yunhuan + Baiyin Valley). 2. Songyang Ancient Villages (Free) - Known as the "Last Hidden Gem of Jiangnan," featured multiple times in *National Geographic*. - Must-Visit Villages: - Yangjiatang Village: The "Golden Potala Palace," its walls glow golden at dusk. - Chenjiapu Village: A cliffside village home to the Pioneer Bookstore, often shrouded in clouds. - Songzhuang Village: Featuring a 600-year-old bridge, as seen on the cover of *Chinese National Geography*. - Tip: Villages are spread out; chartering a car is recommended. 3. Guyuan Huaxiang (5A Scenic Area) - Highlights: Ou River sailboats, ancient camphor trees, and a haven for art students. - Guyuan: Tongji Weir (World Irrigation Engineering Heritage). - Huaxiang: Explore art shops and take a boat trip on the Ou River (CNY 50). - Photography: Misty mornings on the river offer classic scenes of fishermen casting nets. - Tickets: CNY 50 4. Xiandu Scenic Area (5A Scenic Area) - A popular filming location for martial arts dramas (*The Journey of Flower*, *Swordsman*). - Dinghufeng Peak: A 150m-high stone pillar, legendary site of the Yellow Emperor's alchemy practice. - Zhutan Mountain: An old farmer leads a cow across a stone bridge (popular photo spot, paid posing available). - Little Red Cliff: Danxia landforms, the cliffs glow red at sunset. - Tickets: CNY 95 (includes shuttle bus). 5. Nanjianyan (4A Scenic Area) - Known for its "four wonders": sea of clouds, rice terraces, bamboo forests, and waterfalls. - Glass walkway: Offers a bird's-eye view of the valley below. - Photography: High chance of sea of clouds after rain, arrive early. - Tickets: CNY 70 --- 🍜 Lishui Cuisine Lishui cuisine blends the flavors of the southern Zhejiang mountains, emphasizing "wild, rustic, and fresh": - Must-Try Dishes: - Jinyun Shaobing: Crispy flatbread filled with preserved vegetables and pork (best found near Xiandu Scenic Area). - Suichang Changzong: 1-meter-long dragon zongzi with various fillings. - Yunhe Stream Fish: Fried with salt and pepper or braised, paired with local rice wine. - Songyang Stewed Chicken: Local chicken stewed in salt, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. --- 💡 Travel Tips 1. Driving: Mountain roads are winding, not recommended for novice drivers. 2. Photography Equipment: Telephoto lens for morning mist over the terraces, wide-angle lens for villages. 3. Clothing: - Spring/Autumn: Light jacket + sneakers (many stone paths in villages). - Summer: Sun-protective clothing + mosquito repellent. 4. Ticket Discounts: Some attractions offer discounts for Hangzhou/Shanghai ID card holders. --- Lishui's beauty lies in the morning mist over the rice terraces, the weathered mud walls of ancient villages, and the unhurried pace of life. If you're tired of commercialized ancient towns, Lishui offers a glimpse into the authentic Jiangnan. "If the mountains won't come to me, I will go to the mountains" — Let's go! 🌄