Back from Tonglu, and let me tell you the hard truth! I came to this city because of a song.

🎵 "The Qiantang River flows to Tonglu, where the scenery surpasses any painting. Yan Ziling's fishing platform stands as a testament to history, and poetic dwellings line the banks of the Fuchun River..." Every time I hear the song "Beautiful Tonglu," the melodious tune and picturesque lyrics tug at my heart, drawing me to this small Jiangnan town. In March of this year, filled with anticipation, I embarked on a fantastic 4-day journey to Tonglu. Come along with me! 🌆 Tonglu, located in the southwest of Hangzhou City, Zhejiang Province, sits on the banks of the Fuchun River. It's a city blessed with natural beauty. In March, spring returns to Tonglu, the temperature rises, and everything comes back to life. Lush greenery and blooming flowers are everywhere. Here, you'll find the stunning landscapes depicted in "Dwelling in the Fuchun Mountains," with verdant peaks and crystal-clear rivers. You'll also discover ancient villages steeped in history, with white walls and black tiles arranged in a charmingly haphazard way. And don't forget the mouthwatering cuisine, such as Tonglu rice cakes and dried bamboo shoots with braised pork. Every bite is filled with the simplicity and warmth of Tonglu's people. Nature and culture blend seamlessly, and every corner exudes a unique charm. 🚌 Transportation Guide: ✈️ You can first arrive at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport and then transfer to Tonglu by bus or high-speed rail. Transportation is very convenient. Public buses within Tonglu County cover most scenic spots. If you want to visit suburban attractions like Yaolin Wonderland or Yan Ziling Fishing Platform, taking the tourist bus is the most convenient option. Along the way, you can admire Tonglu's idyllic scenery and experience the beauty of Jiangnan😃. 🎯 Recommended Itinerary: Days 1-2: Tonglu County - Fuchun River - Tongjun Mountain - Jiangnan Ancient Village Cluster Day 1: Morning: Arrive at the Fuchun River, and you'll feel like you've stepped into a traditional Chinese painting. The river flows gently, shimmering under the sunlight, with green hills standing on both sides and lush trees providing shade. Take a boat trip, feel the breeze on your face, watch fishermen rowing on the river, and experience the poetic charm of "walking in a mirror, birds flying through a screen." Lunch: Enjoy Tonglu rice cakes by the river. The soft, glutinous outer layer encloses savory fillings, such as shredded radish and red bean paste. One bite, and the aroma of rice fills the air, dispelling any chill. Afternoon: Ascend Tongjun Mountain. Though not tall, this mountain is rich in history and culture. Ancient trees tower over the mountain, and the Taoist temple is serene. Overlooking the Fuchun River, you can take in the panoramic view and learn about the legend of Tongjun, experiencing the profound history of Chinese medicine culture. In the evening, head to the Jiangnan Ancient Village Cluster and check in to a local homestay to experience the tranquility of a rural night. Day 2: Morning: Take an early morning stroll through the ancient village while it's still quiet. Breathe in the fresh air, watch the smoke curl upwards from chimneys, and admire the white walls and black tiles that look even more rustic in the morning light. Start your day full of energy. Lunch: Enjoy a farmhouse meal in the ancient village. Try the dried bamboo shoots with braised pork. The tender bamboo shoots absorb the fat from the pork, becoming even more delicious. The pork is rich but not greasy, and the combination is a perfect representation of Tonglu cuisine. Afternoon: After a short rest, visit the folklore museum in the ancient village to learn about local farming culture and traditional crafts, and experience the historical changes in Tonglu. You can also try your hand at making small crafts, such as bamboo weaving or paper cutting. Day 3: Yaolin Wonderland - Chuiyun Tongtian River (optional) Morning: Head to Yaolin Wonderland, admiring the karst landscape along the way. Once inside the cave, you'll feel like you're in a dreamlike underground world. Stalactites and stalagmites are everywhere, illuminated by lights, resembling waterfalls, fairies, and various other shapes, showcasing the wonders of nature. Lunch: Have a simple lunch near Yaolin Wonderland. If you have the energy, you can visit Chuiyun Tongtian River and take a boat trip along the underground river. The water is crystal clear, and the rocks on both sides are unique, offering a refreshing and mysterious experience. Day 4: Yan Ziling Fishing Platform - Return Trip Morning: Visit Yan Ziling Fishing Platform, where Yan Ziling, a hermit scholar of the Eastern Han Dynasty, lived and fished. The area is known for its beautiful scenery and numerous historical sites. Ascend the fishing platform, overlook the Fuchun River, and imagine Yan Ziling fishing here, appreciating his detachment from fame and fortune. You can also visit the stele forest and admire the calligraphy left by literati throughout history. Lunch: After a simple lunch nearby, filled with memories and fondness for Tonglu, embark on your return journey. 🌟 Must-sees: 📍Fuchun River Small Three Gorges: With steep mountains, clear river water, and cruise ships as a backdrop, taking photos from the bow of the ship captures Tonglu's most iconic landscape, leaving a lasting impression. Whether it's sunny or drizzling, the scenery is always captivating. 📍Flower Sea in Dipu Village, Jiangnan Ancient Village Cluster: March is the season for flowers to bloom. With colorful flowers, ancient houses, and distant green mountains as a backdrop, taking photos here creates a wonderful atmosphere, showcasing the idyllic beauty of Tonglu. 💕 Travel Experience: This four-day trip to Tonglu was a feast of landscape and culture. The beauty of the Fuchun River and the wonder of Yaolin Wonderland immersed me in Tonglu's charm. The soft Tonglu rice cakes and the savory dried bamboo shoots with braised pork made me fall in love with this city. Tonglu in March, with its elegance and simplicity, captivated me. I left with a heavy heart, looking forward to returning and continuing my story with it. 🍱 Local Food Recommendations: 🥘Tonglu Rice Cakes: Soft outer layer, various fillings, and a fragrant rice aroma. 🥩Dried Bamboo Shoots with Braised Pork: Tender bamboo shoots and rich but not greasy pork, a delicious combination. 🥬Tonglu Tofu: Smooth texture, rich bean flavor, and nutritious. 🥟Tonglu Wontons: Thin wrappers, generous fillings, and delicious soup. 🐟Steamed Fish: Fresh and tender fish, cooked to perfection. Tonglu's food is as enticing as its scenery. Come and experience it, and you might, like me, fall in love with this city because of a song!