Changzhou | Come Often, Stay Happy

Changzhou | Come Often, Stay Happy I recently stayed at the Walrun Hotel in Changzhou and the experience was absolutely perfect. Opening the door to my room, I was immediately impressed by the bright, spacious area with warm lighting that instantly relieved my travel fatigue. The room amenities exceeded expectations: smart toilet, Xiaomi air purifier, and most surprisingly, a high-definition projector embedded in the wall behind the bed. After a shower, wrapped in a soft bathrobe and lying on the bed, I could project a 100-inch screen and choose any movie for an immersive private cinema experience. The hotel service was truly exceptional. Staff proactively helped with luggage upon arrival, and the front desk thoughtfully offered warm towels and welcome drinks during check-in. Breakfast was served on the second floor with an impressive variety of Chinese and Western options. The staff was incredibly friendly - I ordered a freshly made small wonton soup that helped start my day full of energy. After checking out, I headed straight to Sanbao Street, known as "Changzhou's artistic heart," which was full of surprises. The industrial-style chimney ruins at the entrance are a popular photo spot, with rusty walls intertwined with vines creating perfect vintage shots. Walking along the Grand Canal, occasional boats glided by, while both banks featured old factories converted into cultural and creative shops housing many treasures. In the "Canal No. 5" creative district, a handcraft shop called "Yi Jie Cao Mu" caught my attention, where I followed the shopkeeper to make fragrant wax tablets with fresh mugwort - the moment those green leaves were embedded in the wax felt like spring compressed into my palm. When tired from exploring, I ducked into "Chun Coffee" at a street corner. Pushing open the glass door, I found walls of vinyl records and wooden bookshelves creating a serene atmosphere. I ordered their special "Left Bank of the Canal" - a delightful collision of coffee and lychee sweetness on my tongue - paired with a freshly baked scone. Sitting by the window watching phoenix tree leaves flutter down, time seemed to slow. As evening approached, Sanbao Street came alive with activity - a night market set up under the big chimney, sugar artists swirled copper ladles on stone slabs while children watching candy-making had sparkling eyes; traditional opera melodies drifted from old teahouses along with the scent of tea, enticing passersby to stop and listen. From the attentive hotel service to Sanbao Street's blend of ancient and modern, this Changzhou journey was filled with warmth throughout. If you're looking for a place that offers both quality accommodation and a connection to the city's cultural heritage, consider visiting here. Let your own story slowly brew in the soft light of projections, the ripples of canal waters, and the lively atmosphere of the old streets.