A must-visit city: Taizhou!
Inspired by a photo, I decided to go on a whim!
I came across a picture of the Ruyi Bridge in Taizhou Shenxianju, a glass bridge shrouded in clouds and mist, seemingly suspended in mid-air. I was instantly captivated! After some research, I discovered Taizhou not only boasts mountains and seas, but is also a paradise for soft and chewy delicacies. I immediately grabbed my friends, booked tickets, and set off!
Day 1: A Day of Exploring Natural Wonders
📍 Tiantai Mountain Grand Waterfall
The "Grandest Waterfall in China" lives up to its name! Standing on the viewing platform, the mist sprays your face, and rainbows appear and disappear. Wearing a *hanfu* here makes for stunning photos (non-slip shoes recommended). After descending the mountain, I stopped by the former residence of Ji Gong and listened to the fascinating stories of the Living Buddha.
📍 Guoqing Temple
A Sui Dynasty temple with a 1,400-year history, it's bustling with worshippers yet tranquil. The temple grounds are filled with ancient trees, and the vegetarian meal is only ¥5 for all you can eat, adding to the Zen-like atmosphere. Photo tip: The temple's yellow walls + rice paddies make for perfect ancient-style photos!
Day 2: Shenxianju + Xiaoruo Village
📍 Shenxianju
The Nantian Peak glass viewing platform offers a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks, and the Ruyi Bridge stretches across the valley like a jade *ruyi*. Adventurous friends can challenge themselves on the high-altitude rope bridge! I recommend taking the cable car up the mountain to save energy and walking down the cliffside plank road. The whole trip takes about 4 hours.
📍 Wenling Xiaoruo Village
In the evening, I rushed to the "Chinese Cinque Terre"! Colorful houses + sunset fishing boats, add a creamy filter, and the photos are divine! Stay at a nearby B&B and wake up early to watch the first rays of sunlight hit the sea at Millennium Dawn Park. It's incredibly romantic!
Day 3: Slow Living in the Ancient City
📍 Taizhou Fu City Wall (Jiangnan Great Wall)
Even more beautiful than the Great Wall of Beijing! Climb the 198 steps from Lansheng Gate to the top for a panoramic view of Linhai. The ¥70 combined ticket includes East Lake, where the Jiangnan gardens and the reflection of the ancient pagoda make for stunning photos in a *qipao*!
📍 Ziyang Old Street
A paradise for lovers of soft and chewy treats! Seaweed cakes, egg white sheep tails, *wufan machi*... ¥10 will get you more than enough to eat! I recommend the time-honored brand "Wang Tianshun" for freshly baked, crispy, and fragrant cakes.
Tips:
1️⃣ Transportation: 2-hour direct high-speed train from Shanghai/Hangzhou. Carpooling or renting a car is recommended for traveling between attractions.
2️⃣ Accommodation: B&Bs near Ziyang Street in Linhai are highly recommended, averaging ¥150/night.
3️⃣ Things to avoid: Changyu Dongtian is quite far, so you can skip it if time is tight. Be sure to ask about prices before ordering at seafood restaurants!
Taizhou, a city of "mountains, seas, and cityscapes," is truly worthwhile!
Whether you're an introvert enjoying the scenery alone or an extrovert having fun with friends, you can find your own sense of relaxation here.