An Underrated Travel Destination! The Ultimate Guide to the Hidden Gem of Taierzhuang Ancient City

Taierzhuang Ancient City, a charming town blending rich history with water-town allure, is hailed as the "First Village Under Heaven" and praised by the World Tourism Organization as the "Living Ancient Canal" and the "Last Heritage Village of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal." Whether strolling through its quaint streets or gliding along its waterways on a paddleboat, you'll be captivated by the city's unique charm. Here’s your ultimate guide to exploring Taierzhuang in detail 📝 ### 1. Best Time to Visit Taierzhuang enjoys four distinct seasons, with spring and autumn offering the most pleasant weather (15–25°C). During these seasons, the ancient city is lush with greenery and blooming flowers, creating a picturesque scene 🌸 Summers are hotter (25–35°C), but the numerous canals provide cool breezes—just remember sun protection and mosquito repellent! Winters are chilly (-5–5°C), but the snow-covered ancient city transforms into a magical winter wonderland at night, illuminated by enchanting lights ❄️ ### 2. Getting There **By Car:** Navigate to "Taierzhuang Ancient City East Gate Parking Lot" or "Taierzhuang Ancient City West Gate Parking Lot." Parking is convenient (around ¥10/day), but arrive early during holidays to secure a spot 🚗 **By High-Speed Rail:** Take the BRT B10 bus from Zaozhuang Station directly to the ancient city (1.5 hours, ¥5). Alternatively, a taxi costs about ¥100 🚄 **By Air:** The nearest airport is Xuzhou Guanyin Airport. Take an airport shuttle and transfer to the BRT for the ancient city ✈️ ### 3. Ticket Info **Adult Ticket:** Full-price ¥160 (¥138 if booked online a day in advance) 💰 **Night Ticket:** ¥80 (entry after 5 PM). If time allows, opt for the full-price ticket to enjoy both day and night views 🌙 **Free Entry:** Seniors (60+), children (under 1.4m), veterans, and journalists (bring ID). ### 4. Where to Stay **Inside the Ancient City:** Stay at a canal-side inn like **Huazhu·Landi** for stunning water views and easy access to the night light shows. Prices range from ¥300–800/night (higher during holidays) 🏮 **Outside the Ancient City:** More budget-friendly options like **Taierzhuang Hotel** (10-minute walk to the city, around ¥200/night) 🛏️ ### 5. Must-Visit Spots **Taierzhuang War Memorial Hall (Free, closed Mondays):** Located 1 km outside the city, it showcases artifacts from the historic Taierzhuang Battle, offering deep insights into China’s wartime history 🕯️ **Revival Square:** The heart of the ancient city and the best spot for the dazzling night light show. The blend of lights and ancient architecture makes for perfect photos 📸 **Moon River Street:** A lively bar street along the ancient canal, ideal for a romantic evening drink 🍸 **Tianhou Palace:** A vibrant Mazu temple with Fujian-style architecture and folk performances—great for cultural immersion and photos 🤳 ### 6. Food to Try **Yellow Flower Beef Noodles:** A local specialty at **Song’s Noodle House**. The rich broth, tender beef, and handmade noodles are unforgettable 🍜 **Vegetable Pancake:** Crispy outside, stuffed with fresh veggies—cheaper outside the ancient city 🥞 **Canal Carp:** Fresh and flavorful, especially the spicy version 🐟 **Zaozhuang Spicy Chicken:** Unlike Chongqing’s version, this dish features chicken stir-fried with potatoes and peppers, resembling Xinjiang’s "big plate chicken" 🌶️ ### 7. Tips **Avoid Crowds:** Visit on weekdays or off-season (Nov–Mar). If visiting during holidays, enter before 8 AM or opt for the night ticket 🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️ **Wear Comfy Shoes:** The cobblestone streets can be tough on your feet 👟 **Pack Essentials:** Mosquito repellent (summer), warm layers (winter), and a power bank (limited rental spots) 🔋 **Skip Overpriced "Trendy" Snacks:** Like bamboo cup milk tea or fried squid—they’re not worth it 🙅‍♀️ Ready to pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable trip to Taierzhuang? 🧳 This ancient city promises memories that will last a lifetime!