Su Dongpo truly does not deceive! A two-day trip to Yixing, a hidden poetic treasure in Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai

Located in Wuxi, Jiangsu, Yixing, formerly known as Yangxian, is the secret mountain and stream realm in Su Dongpo’s poem "Buying land in Yangxian to grow old." It is also an excellent choice for trips around Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai—not only is it the world-famous hometown of purple clay teapots, but it also hides forests, ancient streets, academies, and small towns. After visiting with kids during summer vacation, you’ll keep longing to return. 🌿 Day 1: Ancient charm hidden in the mountain streams, elegance at every step The lush greenery of Longbei Mountain Forest Park, with lawns and dawn redwoods complementing each other, rivals the scenery of Taiziwan; the newly popular spot Tao Er Factory houses the Tao Art Museum designed by master Kengo Kuma, with simple and grand red brick architecture—every snapshot looks like a high-quality photo. A five-minute walk leads to Shushan Ancient South Street, where bluestone paths connect white walls and black tiles. The purple clay shops along the street are full of local life, perfect for finding charming little items. Next door, Dongpo Academy, founded in the Northern Song Dynasty and formerly the “Dongpo Thatched Cottage,” lets you and your kids stroll through and feel the spirit of a thousand years of literati; climbing Dongpo Pavilion offers a panoramic view of the continuous mountain streams, with a dazzling and captivating night scene. 💧 Day 2: Seeking tranquility by the lake and mountains, away from the crowds Early morning by Yun Lake, Dajue Temple’s golden roof and white walls nestle against the mountains and water, with clearly layered architecture. The temple does not offer incense, leaving only quietness and solemnity. The distinctive architectural cluster of Hongshanwu has a film set vibe, with few people and beautiful scenery perfect for photos; Yaohu Town is a newly discovered treasure spot, with few tourists and plenty to explore slowly, every corner hiding surprises. If time allows, visit the famous Dazhuhai Bamboo Sea to experience the healing green scenery, or revisit Longbei Mountain to capture the greenery at different times of day. 🏯 Choosing the right accommodation makes it more enjoyable This time, staying at Longyin Xishan in Yangxian Resort Town, just a five-minute walk to Dongpo Pavilion, with a night view of the lit pavilion right from the room. The resort area is vast, and strolling in the public areas in the morning and evening with the breeze is especially comfortable; the on-site Longyin Xishan Restaurant serves authentic Yixing specialties, with every bite full of local flavor. The beauty of Yixing is hidden in Dongpo’s verses, in the warmth of purple clay, and in the tranquility of the lake and mountains. No need to rush the itinerary—slowly wandering and savoring lets you understand the poetry and everyday charm of this small city. No wonder Su Dongpo was willing to spend his old age here.