Escape the National Day crowds! Ningbo Zhongcun 2-day 1-night guide｜A healing little peach blossom land in eastern Zhejiang

Tested and proven crowd-free "Zhongcun escape guide" is here! Full of pastoral scenery, beginners can copy this👇 🌿 Must-visit off-the-beaten-path spots (few people, 100% chance of great photos) 🏞️ Baiyun Bridge (Tang-style ancient secret stone bridge) This single-arch stone bridge from the Tang Dynasty is full of charm! Shooting from a low angle can frame the entire bridge and the bamboo forest behind it. After rain, with mist swirling, wearing Hanfu and holding a lantern instantly turns it into a fairy tale drama scene. Arrive before 7 AM to have the place all to yourself; the sunlight slanting through the bridge arch creates stunning light and shadow effects. 💧 Xiaolu Creek (the ultimate water play spot) The creek water is as clear as glass. Standing on the stone piers and capturing reflections is super soothing! You can catch small fish in the shallow areas (remember to bring a net), while the deep water is suitable for adults to swim. Spread a picnic cloth under the bamboo forest by the shore; the autumn breeze makes it so cozy. ⚠️ Bring water shoes! The stone piers are slippery with moss. 🏮 Ming and Qing ancient village alleys (a treasure trove for slow strolling) Walk along the bluestone paths to explore old "farming and studying" family homes. The moss on the stone walls and the patterns on the wooden door lintels tell many stories. Next to the Southern Song Dynasty ancient stage, you can hear villagers tell the legend of "Hundred Birds Paying Homage to the Phoenix." Around the corner, you’ll find corn and chili drying in the sun, full of local life atmosphere. The old teahouse in the ancient alley serves local green tea; sit on a bamboo chair and watch villagers play chess for an immersive slow life experience. 📸 Photo tips (with outfit suggestions) Creekside spot: Stand on the stone pier for half-body shots in the morning with front light; the water reflection brightens your skin. Wear a light-colored cotton-linen long dress for better photos. Ancient bridge vibe: Crouch under the bridge arch for side profile shots, letting sunlight filter through the bamboo onto your hair. Props bonus: Bring a bamboo basket, reed flowers, or buy a Liangnong rice cake as a photo prop. 🚗 Transportation & parking (pitfall guide) Self-driving: Navigate to "Zhongcun Scenic Area Parking Lot." It’s 2.5 hours from Hangzhou, 3 hours from Shanghai, and 1.2 hours from Ningbo. There are 3 free parking lots in the village‼️ Much easier to park than at the scenic spots. High-speed rail: Get off at Yuyao North Station, rent a car for 30 minutes (150 RMB/day), or take bus 637 then transfer to 687 (8 RMB but infrequent; if you miss it, you’ll need to carpool for 150 RMB). ❌ Pitfall: Taxis are hard to get in the village; if not driving, book your return ride in advance. 🍲 Must-eat farmhouse flavors (local recommendations) 🍳 Xishan Farmhouse: Braised creek fish and white-cut chicken are must-orders. Ingredients are all local organic produce. The black rice cake is sweet but not greasy. 🧺 Village entrance old shop: Deer Pavilion dried bamboo shoots at 15 RMB/bag, great for stewing meat. Also sells sweet potato vermicelli and green tea as souvenirs. 🍘 Mobile stall: Liangnong rice cakes made fresh on the spot, with warm red bean filling. Perfect for a snack when you’re tired from walking. 💡 Blogger’s secret tips 1️⃣ Off-peak tips: Weekdays or after rain have 80% fewer people. Night tours after 7 PM are even quieter. 2️⃣ Accommodation recommendations: For a higher budget, choose Tree Frog Tribe (starry dome house with a creek to play in). For cost-effectiveness, choose Xishan Farmhouse B&B (fully equipped, serves home-cooked meals). 3️⃣ Essentials: Water shoes, waterproof bag, sunscreen, mosquito repellent (many mosquitoes in the bamboo forest). 4️⃣ Hidden activity: There might be a bonfire party during National Day; ask the B&B owner to book in advance. Spend an afternoon by the creek in Zhongcun, listening to flowing water and birdsong, and you’ll understand what “the life you long for” means. Don’t go where the crowds are this National Day; come to this little peach blossom land in eastern Zhejiang to zone out～