Shaoxing Travel Guide: The Hometown of Lu Xun

Shaoxing, a water town in Jiangnan with over 2,500 years of history, attracts countless visitors with its rich cultural heritage and unique water town charm. As the hometown of Lu Xun, Shaoxing is filled with a strong cultural atmosphere everywhere, with its bluestone-paved streets, black-awning boats, and the aroma of yellow wine creating the city’s distinctive flavor. The best travel seasons are recommended to be spring and autumn. From April to May, the weather is warm and flowers bloom; from October to November, the air is crisp and clear. These two periods offer comfortable temperatures, allowing you to avoid the intense heat and cold while enjoying the most beautiful Jiangnan scenery. Although summer is hot, you can experience the unique charm of "Water Shaoxing"; winter sees fewer tourists, making it ideal for travelers who prefer tranquility. The must-visit attraction is the hometown of Lu Xun. This well-preserved historic district includes Lu Xun’s former residence, Baicao Garden, and Sanwei Study, fully recreating the childhood scenes described in Lu Xun’s writings. It is recommended to rent an audio guide during your visit to gain a deeper understanding of this literary giant’s growth story. Not far from Lu Xun’s hometown is Shen Garden, a Song Dynasty garden famous for the love story of Lu You and Tang Wan. The garden’s pavilions and towers are arranged harmoniously, making it an excellent place to appreciate Jiangnan garden art. Donghu Scenic Area is known for its "mountains in the lake, caves in the mountains." Riding a black-awning boat through the cliffs offers a unique experience. Keyan Scenic Area is famous for its strange rocks, with natural wonders like Yun Gu and Qixing Rock that are breathtaking. Calligraphy enthusiasts should not miss Lanting, the place where Wang Xizhi created the "Preface to the Orchid Pavilion Collection." Every spring, a calligraphy festival is held here. Shaoxing’s cuisine is equally unforgettable. Must-try dishes include fennel beans and marinated chicken at Xianheng Hotel, Shaosanxian at Xunbaoji, and pan-fried buns at Tongxinlou. Of course, Shaoxing yellow wine is a must. At the Guyue Longshan Winery, you can learn about traditional brewing techniques and taste yellow wines of different vintages. Recommended souvenirs include Shaoxing fragrant cakes, preserved mustard greens, and black felt hats, which are both distinctive and easy to carry. In terms of transportation, Shaoxing North Station has high-speed rail connections to Hangzhou, Shanghai, and other cities. The city’s bus system is well-developed, and it is recommended to purchase a one-day pass. For accommodation, you can choose the old town area; for example, Xianheng Hotel offers both a sense of history and a convenient location. When touring, slow down your pace, sit in a teahouse like a local, or take a night stroll along the city moat to truly experience the essence of this ancient city’s "slow life."