Yangzhou 2-Day/1-Night Travel Guide: Encounter the Millennium Charm of Huaiyang

"Bidding farewell to a friend at the Yellow Crane Tower, amidst misty blossoms in the third lunar month, I journey down to Yangzhou." When the spring breeze blows gently, Yangzhou, a small city with a thousand years of history, reveals its unique tenderness and romance. Emperor Qianlong favored it with six visits to the south of the Yangtze River, and the ripples of the ancient Grand Canal whisper tales of bygone eras. Now, follow this guide to unlock the authentic charm of Yangzhou in 48 hours! Itinerary Day 1: Garden Aesthetics × Bustling City Life • 9:00 Sunrise Feast at Slender West Lake: Entering Slender West Lake from the south gate is like stepping into a breathtaking landscape painting. Head straight to Diaoyutai. The morning mist hangs like a veil, and the reflection of the Five-Pavilion Bridge shimmers in the water, resembling shattered colored glass, dreamlike and beautiful. Stroll along the Qianlong Emperor's path, savoring the historical charm. In front of the White Pagoda, the weeping crabapple blossoms are in full bloom, a touch of pink, the gentlest gift of spring. At this time, rent a sculling boat (60 yuan/person) and drift leisurely on the clear water, admiring the beauty of Slender West Lake up close, with a gentle breeze caressing your face, pure bliss. • 12:00 Black Pearl-Level Morning Tea Ritual: Quyuan Tea House offers a morning tea experience that is a feast for the senses. The emerald-green siu mai exudes the fragrance of shepherd's purse, and a bite releases a refreshing taste on the tongue. The diced bamboo shoots in the three-diced buns are crisp and tender, each bite a burst of satisfaction. Highly recommended is the thousand-layer oil cake, fluffy, soft, and sweet but not greasy. Pair it with a cup of Kuilongzhu tea, the tea's aroma blending with the delicious food, relieving greasiness and soothing the heart. • 14:00 The Salt Merchant's Code at Ge Garden: Ge Garden, the private residence of a Qing Dynasty salt merchant, houses the stunning "Four Seasons Rockery." Stepping inside is like traveling through time, engaging in a dialogue with history. Wander through the rockery, searching for the hexagonal carved windows embedded in the walls. Through these openings, dynamic landscape paintings come into view, each angle offering a unique perspective, a testament to the ingenuity of the ancients. • 17:30 Sunset Stroll on Dongguan Street: In the evening, arrive at Dongguan Street. Ascend the city gate and quietly await the sunset. When the afterglow of the setting sun casts its golden light, the entire Dongguan Street is bathed in a warm hue, and the lanterns light up one by one, complementing the sunset's glow. The canal water flows gently, blending the street's reflection into a flowing river of stars, dreamlike and enchanting. Day 2: Canal Epic × Artistic Rebirth • 8:00 Locals' Secret Breakfast Map: Avoid the tourist crowds at Fuchun and head to Jiangjiaqiao Dumpling and Noodle Shop for a bowl of shrimp roe wonton noodles. The peppery broth is rich and mellow, instantly awakening the taste buds. Add a spoonful of the signature fragrant vinegar for an even more delicious flavor. Don't miss the fried chicken legs from Mr. Pan next door, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, each bite a burst of happiness. Grab one to go and enjoy it on the way. • 10:00 A Wonderful Day at the Grand Canal Museum: The Grand Canal Museum offers a fantastic journey through the history and culture of the canal. Change into Hanfu in Hall 3's imitation ancient street, feeling like you've traveled back in time, every photo a masterpiece. The 5D glasses-free film takes you on a journey through time and space amidst the canal's waves, experiencing its grandeur. Don't miss the rooftop garden, where modern steel frames and ancient towers coexist, creating a unique and magical atmosphere. • 13:00 Reflections in Water and Flowers at He Garden: He Garden, known as the "Best Garden of the Late Qing Dynasty," features the exquisite Yuxiu Building. The 1,500-meter-long covered walkway houses China's earliest home theater, whispering stories of the past. Standing at the Water Heart Pavilion, find the perfect angle to see the moon gates in all four directions, framing the scenery of the four seasons, like a natural painting. • 16:00 Artistic Wanderings on Pishi Street: Pishi Street is filled with an artistic atmosphere. Collect a full set of Yangzhou scenic stamps at Fushengji Bookstore to take home beautiful memories of Yangzhou. The ancient book restoration exhibition at Biancheng Bookstore showcases the charm of traditional culture. Enjoy a cup of coffee with "Yangzhou" written on it, sit in front of the popular Guangling Old Dream wall, and savor the leisurely time, watching the light and shadows paint the fallen sycamore leaves into scattered gold on the ground. Food Recommendations • Zhao's Stacked Tangyuan: The four-happiness tangyuan offers both sweet and savory flavors. One bite releases the flowing sesame filling, spreading sweetness in your mouth, pure bliss. • Simple Fare: The lotus root duo with honey-glazed lotus root is a carbohydrate lover's dream. Soft and glutinous lotus root paired with a sweet sauce, each bite a burst of satisfaction. • Ziqi Hot Pot: The Yangzhou version of Haidilao, featuring a signature duck feet hot pot. The broth is delicious, and the duck feet are tender, incredibly tasty. • Big Wave Huai: The wooden bucket fish soup with beef brisket and soy sauce fried rice is a popular spot for locals to gather. The rich fish soup, tender beef brisket, and fragrant soy sauce fried rice create a perfect combination. Accommodation Suggestions It is recommended to stay near Dongguan Street, which offers convenient transportation and numerous dining options, making it easy to explore and savor the local cuisine. Yangzhou, a city full of poetry and romance, awaits you to unveil its mysteries and embark on an unforgettable journey.