Just back from Yangzhou, and here's the whole truth.

“An old friend bids farewell to the west at Yellow Crane Tower, while in March, amidst fireworks, I journey down to Yangzhou.” Yangzhou in March is like a slowly unfolding ink painting, captivatingly beautiful. Fresh off my trip to Yangzhou, I've compiled a super detailed three-day itinerary to share with you all~ Itinerary Day 1: Slender West Lake → Daming Temple → Dongguan Street Morning: Be sure to arrive at Slender West Lake early, while the sunlight is just right and the crowds are still thin. When I went, the willow trees were already sprouting tender green buds, swaying in the wind as if welcoming every visitor. Stroll along the lakeside, and you'll see the Five-Pavilion Bridge spanning the lake, resembling five blooming lotuses. Taking photos on the bridge is stunning; every shot is a masterpiece. Further on is the Twenty-Four Bridge, reminiscent of the verse "On a moonlit night by the Twenty-Four Bridge, where can I find a jade-like beauty to teach me to play the flute?" Standing on the bridge, feeling the gentle breeze, it's as if you've traveled back in time. Lunch: Savor Yangzhou's specialties at a restaurant near Slender West Lake. I recommend Yangzhou fried rice, lion's head meatballs, and shredded dried tofu. Each dish is truly unforgettable. Afternoon: Head to Daming Temple, a solemn and ancient temple with a history of over a thousand years. As soon as you enter, you'll catch a whiff of the burning incense. Be sure to climb the Qiling Pagoda inside the temple. From the top, you can overlook the entire city of Yangzhou, with its red walls and green trees, a feast for the eyes. Evening: Explore Dongguan Street, a bustling and brightly lit area. The street is lined with various unique shops and food stalls, perfect for strolling and snacking. Don't forget to try Yangzhou's local snacks, such as lotus root starch balls and Huangqiao sesame cakes. Day 2: Geyuan Garden → He Garden → Pishi Street Morning: Step into Geyuan Garden and be instantly captivated by its unique landscape. The garden boasts a wide variety of bamboo, each with its own distinct form. The saying "Better to eat without meat than to live without bamboo" is perfectly embodied here. The Four Seasons Rockeries are a true marvel, constructed with different stones representing spring, summer, autumn, and winter, a testament to the ingenuity of the ancients. Lunch: Find a Huaiyang restaurant near Geyuan Garden and savor classic Yangzhou dishes like steamed sea bass and stir-fried shrimp. These dishes are light, refreshing, and nutritious. Afternoon: Visit He Garden, hailed as the "best garden of the late Qing Dynasty." It combines the delicate beauty of Jiangnan gardens with elements of Western architecture. The Pian Shi Shan Fang (Boulder Studio) within the garden is a rock arrangement by the monk Shi Tao. Its reflection in the water resembles an ink painting, breathtakingly beautiful. Evening: Immerse yourself in the artistic atmosphere of Pishi Street, home to numerous cafes, bookstores, and handicraft shops. Find a cafe you like, settle in, order a coffee, and enjoy the leisurely ambiance. Day 3: Grand Canal Museum → Return Trip Morning: Visit the Grand Canal Museum, a comprehensive showcase of the history and culture of the Grand Canal. Through multimedia displays and artifacts, the museum vividly presents the past and present of this waterway. Here, you can delve into the canal's construction, development, and profound impact on Chinese history and culture. Lunch: Dine at a restaurant near the museum and enjoy local specialties. Afternoon: Conclude your delightful Yangzhou journey and head back home with cherished memories. Food Recommendations Quyuan Tea House: A must-visit tea house with an elegant setting and exquisite dishes. I recommend the thousand-layer oil cake, emerald siu mai, and diced meat buns. Every bite captures the essence of Yangzhou's morning tea culture. Jiangjiaqiao Dumpling and Noodle Shop: A budget-friendly eatery with excellent value. Be sure to try their signature dumpling noodles. The noodles are firm, the dumplings are delicious, and the broth is rich. Huayuan Tea House: A popular tea house frequented by locals. Their crab roe soup dumplings are bursting with flavor, offering a mouthful of pure bliss. Things to Note The weather in Yangzhou in March can be unpredictable, so remember to bring an umbrella and a jacket. Yangzhou's attractions are relatively close together, but some walking is required, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Morning tea time can get crowded, so it's best to arrive early and get a queue number. Friends, Yangzhou in March is truly stunning. Embark on a spontaneous trip and experience its beauty💕