I've ditched Wuzhen—I'm head over heels for Huzhou!

Hey everyone! As a seasoned traveler, I've explored my fair share of destinations. I used to think Wuzhen was the ultimate Jiangnan water town experience, but Huzhou completely blew me away! I'm sharing my Huzhou itinerary with you all, focusing on maximizing value and endless fun! Free Fun in the City Center 📍Huzhou Museum: If you want a quick overview of a city's history, the museum is your best bet. Here, you can witness Huzhou's transformation from ancient times to the present day. The various artifacts are super interesting, and after a visit, you'll have a deeper understanding of Huzhou's rich heritage. The best part? It's free and educational—what a steal!🎈 📍Feiying Park: This is a hidden gem in the city center, home to the Feiying Pagoda. While you can't climb the pagoda, the park's scenery is truly picturesque, with lush trees and shimmering lake waters. Find a bench, soak up the sun, and feel the gentle breeze—pure bliss!🍃 📍Yishang Street Historical and Cultural District: This charming street exudes classic Jiangnan charm. It's free to explore, and the various shops lining the street offer unique handicrafts, retro trinkets, and more. Stroll along, and you're bound to discover delightful surprises.🎁 Relaxing Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Huzhou in the morning and head to the Huzhou Museum to delve into the city's history. In the afternoon, unwind at Feiying Park. In the evening, explore Yishang Street, sample various snacks, and experience Huzhou's nightlife.🌙 Day 2: Visit the ancient town of Nanxun (tickets around 75 RMB, super affordable). Wander through the town at a leisurely pace, admire the ancient bridges and houses, and soak in the tranquility. Take a boat ride to experience the water town charm. Return to the city center for the night.🛏️ Day 3: Head to the Taihu Lake Tourist Resort and stroll along the lakeshore, taking in the stunning views of Taihu Lake. There are also plenty of amusement facilities here, so you can play as you please—it's all about spontaneity. Local Treasures: Must-Try Foods 🥘Zhou Shengji Wontons: A time-honored Huzhou establishment serving wontons with thin wrappers, generous fillings, and flavorful broth. They offer various flavors like shrimp and pork, and you can't go wrong with any of them. A mouthful of wonton and a sip of broth—pure satisfaction! 🦐Ding Lianfang Thousand-Layer Tofu Rolls: Another Huzhou signature dish. These rolls are filled with tender meat and bamboo shoots, bursting with flavor in every bite. Pair them with vermicelli soup for the ultimate combo—it's heavenly! 🍜Zhu Laoda Zongzi: Available in both sweet and savory varieties. The sweet zongzi has a smooth and fragrant red bean paste filling, while the savory zongzi features melt-in-your-mouth pork belly and perfectly cooked glutinous rice. Don't forget to dip them in sugar or soy sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Why I Prefer Huzhou🤔 Compared to the commercialized Wuzhen, Huzhou offers a more authentic and laid-back experience. Here, you can truly slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of life. Plus, Huzhou boasts a diverse culinary scene and plenty of free attractions in the city center, making it incredibly budget-friendly. Whether you're looking to experience the charm of a Jiangnan water town or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Huzhou is an excellent choice! Seriously, folks, Huzhou is worth a visit. Plan your trip now!💖