Stayed at a fairy-tale hotel in Huzhou, waking up to a Jiangnan ink painting scene
🌅 Early Morning 7:00-9:00 Misty Moments in Nanxun Ancient Town
Who really understands? The true Jiangnan is in Nanxun’s early morning! Head out promptly at 7 AM, when the morning mist still lingers over Baijianlou, the river reflects white walls and black tiles, grandmas wash clothes by the riverbank, and the oar boats lazily glide by. The whole ancient town is still asleep. At this time, there’s no competition for photo spots; standing on any stone bridge feels like stepping into an ink painting. No entrance fee is required, and it’s also free after 4 PM, but the early morning atmosphere is truly unique. When tired from walking, enjoy a bowl of Shuangjiao noodles at Baijianlou’s entrance for just 20 yuan—a double topping of braised pork and fried fish, with chewy noodles and a broth so fresh you’ll want to lick the bowl.
☀️ Morning 9:30-12:00 Deep Exploration of the Ancient Town
After breakfast, officially explore Nanxun. Start with Xiaolian Manor; although the lotus flowers bloom only in summer, the garden’s rockeries, pavilions, and towers are already worth seeing. Then visit the Zhang Shiming Former Residence—this is the real Jiangnan mansion! Western glass, rosewood furniture, carved gates, every detail exudes the wealth of the past. Don’t miss Jiayetang Library, with its tens of thousands of books creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere. The ancient trees in the courtyard provide dense shade, making it especially cool in summer. A rowboat ride costs 60 yuan per boat for two people, taking 20 minutes from Baijianlou to Xiaolian Manor. Enjoy the river breeze and the scenery on both sides—much more comfortable than walking.
🍜 Noon 12:30-14:00 Ancient Town Food Highlights
Lunch is served right in Nanxun Ancient Town. Xunti (braised pork trotters) costs 30 yuan per serving, stewed until tender with soft skin and meat, not greasy at all. Dingsheng Cake is 5 yuan each, filled with sweet red bean paste, best eaten hot. If you don’t want to eat in the scenic area, take a taxi to the city center. On Yichang Street, Ding Lianfang’s Qianzhang Bao is 15 yuan per serving, with thin skin and generous filling, and the soup is especially fresh with added dried shrimp. Zhoushengji Wontons are 12 yuan a bowl, filled with fresh meat, large and plump, perfect with chili oil. Zhulaoda Zongzi costs 10 yuan each; these savory, oily meat rice dumplings are the classic breakfast for Huzhou locals.
🌤️ Afternoon 14:30-17:30 Relaxing Time by Taihu Lake
In the afternoon, take a taxi to Taihu Fisherman’s Wharf, just 30 minutes away. The Moon Bay Hotel’s design is magical—by day it looks like a ring, and at night the lights make it even more stunning. Walk slowly along the bike path, feeling the Taihu breeze, which is very soothing. Rent a bike for 30 yuan an hour and ride around the lake, passing reed beds and flower seas—perfect for photos. If you don’t want to move, find a lakeside café and sit all afternoon, watching fishing boats come and go in the distance as time slows down.
🌆 Evening 17:30-19:00 Night Scene on Yichang Street
Return to the city center in the evening to stroll Yichang Street and Xiaoxi Street. Qinglian Bridge is the best photo spot—stand on the bridge to capture the red lanterns on both sides, their reflections in the river are especially beautiful. The night view of Tiaoliang Bridge is also amazing, with the ancient bridge lit by modern lights, creating a time-travel feeling. Xiaoxi Street has many artsy shops; when tired, find a teahouse to sit down, sip some Anji white tea, listen to traditional storytelling, and experience Huzhou’s slow life.
🌃 Night 19:00-21:00 Moon Bay Light Show
Be sure to return to Taihu for the light show at night! The lights turn on at 6:30 PM, with the Moon Bay Hotel’s colors constantly changing, reflected in Taihu Lake, turning the entire lake surface into a colorful spectacle. The Fisherman’s Wharf night market also opens, offering grilled squid, fried skewers, milk tea, and more. Enjoy the food while watching the night view—a perfect end to the day.
Accommodation
🏨 Huzhou Zhenpo Hotel
Top luxury French style, located right in the city center, a 5-minute walk to Yichang Street. The rooms are huge with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city nightscape. Breakfast is semi-buffet style, and the freshly made Eggs Benedict are delicious.
🏨 Naked Stables Resort, Moganshan
A castle hotel built on the mountaintop, opening the window reveals a sea of bamboo. The infinity pool is perfect for photos, plus there’s a spa and horseback riding experience—ideal for a relaxing vacation.
🏨 Yaojia Waterfall Village, Moganshan
Wild luxury stone house style, each room has a private terrace. Fall asleep to the sound of waterfalls and wake up to birdsong—a true mountain retreat.
🏨 Yueqili Homestay, Nanxun Ancient Town
Right next to Baijianlou, with river views from the window. Designed with a Chinese courtyard style, the owner personally prepares breakfast, and in the evening you can drink tea and chat in the courtyard.