A Super Detailed Travel Guide to Yixing—Your Must-See Checklist

Yixing, a poetic and charming town in the south of the Yangtze River, is a place where mountains meet waters and culture thrives. If you're planning a spontaneous trip to Yixing, be sure to save this guide! 🌅Recommended Attractions: 1. Yixing Bamboo Forest: A national 4A scenic spot, with nearly 15,000 hectares of bamboo forest, it truly lives up to its name, "Ocean of Bamboo." Stroll through the forest, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse yourself in a green wonderland. Ascend to the highest peak in southern Jiangsu and overlook the endless bamboo sea. The crystal-clear water of Taihu Lake's primary source is also a sight to behold. You can also take a sightseeing cable car to enjoy a panoramic view of the bamboo forest. Suggested visiting time: 3–4 hrs. 2. Shanjuan Cave: One of the three most wondrous caves in the world, the cave is filled with a variety of stalactites, a true marvel of nature. The upper cave is shrouded in mist, the middle cave is spacious and grand, and the lower cave features a cascading waterfall. Take a boat tour through the water cave and feel like you've traveled to a fairyland. This is also one of the birthplaces of the Butterfly Lovers story, adding a touch of romance to the site. Suggested visiting time: 3–4 hrs. 3. Longchi Mountain Bicycle Park: Free admission, only bicycle rental fees apply. The park combines cycling, scenic landscapes, and tea gardens. Rent a bicycle and ride along the winding paths, feeling the breeze on your face and admiring the beautiful scenery along the way. Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hrs. 4. Yada Yangxian Xishan Town: A resort town with the characteristics of a Jiangnan water town, blended with modern elements. Visit the Dongpo Pavilion, take a stroll in the Lakeside Park, or immerse yourself in the cultural atmosphere at the Yada Academy. Enjoy a leisurely time here. Suggested visiting time: 2–3 hrs. 5. Dajue Temple: The ancestral temple of Buddhism, the temple's architecture is magnificent. Come here to meditate, purify your mind, and experience tranquility and peace. The surrounding environment is beautiful, with mountains and waters complementing each other. Suggested visiting time: 1–2 hrs. 🍱Recommended Food: 1. Yixing Clay Pot: A local specialty, these pots are made of high-quality purple clay and have excellent heat retention. Clay pot fish head, clay pot spare ribs, and other dishes are rich in flavor and made with fresh ingredients. 2. Wumi Rice: Dark in color, fragrant, soft, glutinous, and nutritious. 3. Dried Bamboo Shoots: A specialty of the Yixing mountainous area, delicious whether stir-fried or used in soups. 4. Braised Bamboo Shoots with Cured Meat: The salty aroma of cured meat blends perfectly with the tenderness of bamboo shoots, a truly satisfying dish. 5. Youdunzi: Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these fried snacks come with various fillings, including vegetables, meat, or beans. They are a favorite breakfast and snack among locals. 🏠Recommended Accommodation: 1. Yixing Hidden Dragon Valley Mountain Resort: Enjoy stunning mountain views, private hot springs, and attentive service. 2. Yixing Ink Painting Hantian Resort: A beautiful environment, suitable for family trips. Children can enjoy the hot springs, and the staff provides responsible service. 3. Yixing Bamboo Forest International Conference Center (Bamboo Forest Hot Spring): Features a well-equipped children's play area and outdoor hot springs. Located diagonally opposite the Bamboo Forest Scenic Area, making it convenient for travel. 🚗Transportation Guide: Yixing is easily accessible by high-speed rail or car. 1. High-speed Rail: Yixing Station has many trains to various cities across the country. After arrival, you can take a taxi or bus to the scenic spots. 2. Car: Driving from surrounding cities is very convenient, with good highway conditions. Some scenic spots offer free parking lots. 📌Travel Tips: 1. Check the weather forecast in advance and choose a suitable time to travel. Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Yixing. 2. Shanjuan Cave and Yixing Bamboo Forest are popular attractions, so it is recommended to start early and avoid peak crowds. 3. Pay attention to safety and follow traffic rules when cycling in Longchi Mountain Bicycle Park. 4. When trying local cuisine, ask the restaurant for recommendations to avoid any disappointments.