Here, you’ll find the dreams of Du Mu’s ten-year slumber in Yangzhou, and the place that Emperor Qianlong visited five out of six times during his Southern Tours.
To this day, Yangzhou remains highly revered, having been awarded the UN-Habitat Scroll of Honour in 2006.
However, Yangzhou’s beauty is not limited to just “March.” From the willows of March to the jade-like flowers of May, each season offers a unique scenic view.
Nevertheless, the editor recommends visiting during spring, as it is the most beautiful time in Yangzhou. So, let’s follow the editor’s footsteps and embark on a journey to savor the beauty of Yangzhou, the epitome of Jiangnan’s water towns.
Exploring Yangzhou
📍 Slender West Lake
Slender West Lake is world-renowned, with its antique and diverse architecture within the circular area. The lakeshore is lined with lush trees, and amidst the misty rain, there’s a poetic and picturesque charm that rivals Hangzhou’s West Lake, even surpassing it in its subtle details.
In March, the plum blossoms on the lake are in full bloom, creating a delightful contrast with the green willows. A waterway runs through the center of the forest, with flowering plum trees planted on both sides, resembling a fairy realm.
The entire scenic area is composed of lakes, bridges, pavilions, flowers, grass, and trees. The main attractions are concentrated in the central area, including Xu Garden, Xiaojin Mountain, and Wanhua Garden, with Wanhua Garden being the most outstanding and a perfect spot for admiring flowers in Yangzhou. (For specific flowering conditions, it is recommended to check the official announcements before your trip~)
As for the best way to explore, the editor suggests a combination of walking and boat rides. Enter through the South Gate and exit from the same gate, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of Jiangnan from different perspectives.
If time permits, you can also plan a night visit to Slender West Lake to watch the large-scale immersive night tour “Two Minutes of Moonlight Remembering Yangzhou,” where you can discover the “nightlife” of Guangling during the Tang Dynasty: bustling merchants, thousand-lantern night markets, meeting kindred spirits over wine, poetic conversations, moonlit spring river, and enchanting beauties…
📍 He Garden
He Garden is a late Qing Dynasty garden architecture, also known as “Jixiao Mountain Villa,” and has been praised as the “Best Garden of the Late Qing Dynasty.” In early spring, the first sight that catches the eye is the white magnolia beside the Water Heart Pavilion in He Garden.
The white magnolias, pavilions, carved balustrades, and floral windows come together in a picturesque frame, making one feel that Yangzhou is the true embodiment of Jiangnan!
📍 Ge Garden
Ge Garden is one of the most famous gardens in Yangzhou and a typical Jiangnan garden. It is located not far from He Garden, accessible by passing through Pishi Street and Dongguan Street, along the way, you’ll encounter several charming market alleys.
Although Ge Garden appears small from the outside, its area actually surpasses that of He Garden. Upon entering the garden area, there’s a sense of spaciousness. The scattered rockeries encompass the scenery of all four seasons.
📍 Daming Temple
Daming Temple, once hailed as “Yangzhou’s No. 1 Scenic Spot,” was first built during the Southern Song Dynasty under Emperor Xiaowu. Situated on the highest mountain in Yangzhou, it boasts a tranquil and elegantly rustic environment. The renowned Tang Dynasty monk Jianzhen once served as the abbot here, and the famous scholar Ouyang Xiu engaged in poetic exchanges with his friends at this very place.
Within the temple stands the Qiling Pagoda. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of Yangzhou city. (An additional ticket is required to ascend the pagoda)
📍 Grand Canal & Grand Canal Museum
A visit to Yangzhou is incomplete without seeing the Grand Canal, an ideal spot for watching the sunset. The Tang-style architecture reflects the rosy glow of the evening clouds, evoking a sense of the prosperous Tang Dynasty. A stroll along the canal at dusk offers a unique flavor.
If time allows, be sure to visit the nearby Grand Canal Museum! Here, ancient charm and modern technology blend seamlessly, leaving visitors in awe. The museum offers free admission, and advance reservations can be made online one day prior. With a total of 13 exhibition halls and a rich collection of exhibits, it is recommended to allocate half a day for the visit.
📍 Dongguan Street & Pishi Street
Dongguan Street is a famous old street in Yangzhou, located in the city center, next to the ancient Grand Canal, exuding an antique charm. There are many delicious food options here, and it’s particularly lively in the evenings. Of course, if you don’t enjoy overly commercialized attractions, you can decide for yourself whether to visit or not!
Adjacent to Dongguan Street is Pishi Street, a more atmospheric cultural street where you can check out stylish cafes, old bookstores, and miscellaneous shops.
Dining in Yangzhou
Yangzhou cuisine belongs to the Huaiyang culinary school, which is known as “the best flavor in the southeast and the ultimate beauty in the world.” Yangzhou fried rice, Da Zhu Gansi (stir-fried dried tofu and shredded vegetables), Lion’s Head with dried vegetables, vegetable buns, Four Happiness soup dumplings, and Emerald Shaomai… are all worth trying~
However, the most worthwhile experience in Yangzhou is the morning tea. When it comes to morning tea, is your first impression Cantonese-style morning tea? In fact, Yangzhou’s morning tea is also very famous. People’s leisurely day begins with a morning tea session.
If the local renowned morning tea houses, such as Yechun Tea House and Fuchun Tea House, are too crowded, you can also opt for other teahouses in Yangzhou. The cost-effective Garden Teahouse or the visually appealing but slightly pricier Quyuan are all excellent choices.
Apart from the food, Yangzhou’s green tea quality is also very high. Tea enthusiasts can give it a try. A sip of green tea encompasses the city walls, green willows, and the enchanting season of March.
Staying in Yangzhou
If you plan to stay for only 1-2 days, the editor recommends staying near Wenchang Pavilion, Pishi Street, or Dongguan Street, as they are relatively close to various attractions, making it very convenient to explore.
The strategy guide is now presented to you.
As March approaches, quickly gather your family and friends.
Together, come to Yangzhou and enjoy the splendid spring scenery!
