Yangzhou Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local customs and culture in Yangzhou, China.


Introduction to Yangzhou

Located in the eastern part of China, Yangzhou is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in China. This city is home to picturesque gardens, temples, museums, parks, and historical sites. Yangzhou is known for its graceful architecture, charming canals, and natural landscapes.

Yangzhou is ideal for visitors who appreciate history, culture, art, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a solo traveler, traveling with family, on a honeymoon trip, or on a group tour, Yangzhou has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Yangzhou

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Slender West Lake - Considered one of the most beautiful lakes in China, Slender West Lake is a must-visit attraction in Yangzhou. The lake is surrounded by stunning gardens, bridges, temples, and pavilions.

  2. Daming Temple - This temple is a must-see for visitors interested in Chinese Buddhism. The temple is home to multiple halls, courtyards, and pagodas, showcasing intricate carvings and beautiful artwork.

  3. Geyuan Garden - This stunning garden is famous for its meticulously arranged rocks, pavilions, miniature landscapes, and winding paths, making it famous even throughout China.

  4. Yangzhou Museum - The Yangzhou Museum is the perfect place to learn about the city’s history and culture. The museum showcases various art pieces, antiques, and historical artifacts from different dynasties.

Natural Attractions of Yangzhou: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Slender West Lake Scenic Area - The Slender West Lake Scenic Area is not only suitable for boat tours, but it is also the perfect place to go cycling, walking, and enjoying a picnic in a beautiful setting.

  2. Heyuan Garden - Heyuan Garden is a natural scenery retreat with exquisite architecture and a lush backdrop of green landscape. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, take pictures, or enjoy traditional tea ceremonies in this peaceful garden.

  3. Ge Garden - The Ge Garden offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, peaceful environment, and natural beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yangzhou

  1. No.1 Beach Road - This relatively easy route offers stunning views of the natural landscapes of Yangzhou. It’s perfect for both cycling and hiking enthusiasts.

  2. Yunjin Road - Yunjin Road is a great option for visitors who want to experience the local ambiance of Yangzhou. The route passes through a traditional water town, where visitors can enjoy the scenic views and local culture.

Best Things to Do in Yangzhou: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a boat ride in the Slender West Lake Scenic Area - A boat ride in the Slender West Lake Scenic Area is undoubtedly one of the highlights of Yangzhou. It’s an excellent way to explore this beautiful area and relax amidst scenic natural beauty.

  2. Visit the Daming Temple Fair - The Daming Temple Fair is held in the temple on the 9th and 10th day of the third lunar month. Visitors can enjoy folk performances, acrobatics, and martial arts exhibitions, and try out local food and handicrafts.

  3. Try Traditional Yangzhou Cuisine - Yangzhou cuisine is one of the most famous culinary traditions in China. Visitors can delight their taste buds with local dishes like Yangzhou Fried Rice, Lion’s Head Meatball, and Steamed Crab.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yangzhou

Day 1: Arrive and check-in to hotel. Visit Slender West Lake Scenic Area. Day 2: Visit Geyuan Garden and Daming Temple. Day 3: Take a bike tour on No.1 Beach Road. Day 4: Visit the Yangzhou Museum and Heyuan Garden. Day 5: Try traditional Yangzhou cuisine and visit the Ge Garden. Day 6: Take a boat ride in the Slender West Lake Scenic Area. Day 7: Relax and explore the local culture and shopping at Wenchang commercial street.

Food and Drink Scene of Yangzhou

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Yangzhou Fried Rice - A world-famous dish, Yangzhou Fried Rice is a must-try dish when in Yangzhou. It’s a fragrant rice dish with egg, meat, and vegetables.

  2. Lion’s Head Meatball - Lion’s Head Meatball is considered a symbol of Yangzhou cuisine. It’s a pork meatball, cooked in a soy sauce-based broth and served with crispy vegetables and steamed buns.

  3. Steamed Crab - Steamed crab is a delicacy in Yangzhou during the autumn season. The crab is cooked with ginger and served with vinegar and soy sauce.

Local Beverages

  1. Biluochun Green Tea - Biluochun is a renowned green tea produced in Yangzhou. It’s known for its delicate flavor and aroma.

  2. Yangzhou rice wine - Yangzhou rice wine is mildly sweet and brewed with glutinous rice, water, and yeast. It’s a popular drink served on special occasions.

Where to Stay in Yangzhou: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

1.Slender West Lake Hotel - Located near Slender West Lake Scenic Area, the Slender West Lake Hotel is a luxury hotel offering first-class service and panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

  1. Crystal Orange Hotel - The Crystal Orange Hotel is located in the vibrant city center and offers a comfortable stay with modern amenities.

  2. Yangzhou Paradise Hotel - This elegant hotel is located near the Ge Garden and is known for its traditional Chinese decor and excellent hospitality.

What to Buy in Yangzhou: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handmade Fans - Yangzhou is famous for its handmade fans created by skilled craftsmen.

  2. Silk products - Visitors can buy silk scarves, ties, and other silk products produced in Yangzhou.

  3. Teapots and tea sets - Visitors to Yangzhou can purchase exquisite teapots and tea sets crafted by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Yangzhou

  1. Respect cultural and religious sites - Visitors must dress appropriately and behave respectfully at cultural sites such as temples and shrines.

  2. Learn some simple Mandarin phrases - The local language is Mandarin, and learning some simple phrases can be helpful when communicating with locals.

Best Time to Visit Yangzhou

The best time to visit Yangzhou is from March to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Visitors should avoid the rainy season from June to August and the cold winter season from December to February.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yangzhou

Do:

  • Do try traditional Yangzhou cuisine.
  • Do explore Yangzhou’s natural landscapes.
  • Do respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage public property.
  • Don’t disrespect local culture and customs.
  • Don’t take photos without permission at religious or cultural sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Yangzhou

Yangzhou is a relatively safe city for tourists. Visitors should be cautious when walking alone at night and keep an eye on their belongings in crowded areas.

Health in Yangzhou

Visitors should drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues. It’s also advisable to carry a basic first aid kit and necessary medications.

Getting to Yangzhou: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Yangzhou

  • Yangzhou Taizhou International Airport, located 30 km from the city center, is the nearest airport serving Yangzhou.

Bus Stations Near Yangzhou

  • Yangzhou North Bus Station and Yangzhou South Bus Station are the two main bus stations serving Yangzhou.

Other Options

  • Visitors can also reach Yangzhou by train or car.

How to Get Around in Yangzhou

Visitors can use public transportation such as buses and taxis to get around the city. Cycling is also a popular way to explore Yangzhou’s scenic spots.

Where to Go Next from Yangzhou: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Suzhou - Suzhou is a neighboring city famous for its beautiful gardens, silk production, and classical architecture.

  2. Hangzhou - Hangzhou is known for its scenic West Lake, tea production, and cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Yangzhou offers visitors an unforgettable cultural and natural experience. Its stunning gardens, temples, museums, and historical sites make it a top destination in China. With a relaxed and welcoming culture, visitors can feel at home while exploring the city’s treasures. Plan your next trip to Yangzhou, and discover this enchanting Chinese gem.

Siwang Ting ( Siwang Ting ("The Pavilion for Looking into Four Directions"), one of the main historic landmarks in downtown Yangzhou A typical modern middle-class neighborhood in Yangzhou A typical modern middle-class neighborhood in Yangzhou Yangzhou Railway Station Yangzhou Railway Station Erdaohe, the canal that runs along the western edge of the former walled city Erdaohe, the canal that runs along the western edge of the former walled city A Tang Dynasty dragon boat on display in Yangzhou Museum A Tang Dynasty dragon boat on display in Yangzhou Museum The warrior deity Zhenwu, assisted by the Snake General and the Tortoise General, in Yangzhou's Wudangxing Palace (武当行宫, ''Wudangxing gong''), a Taoist temple in Dongguang St (东关街, ''Dongguan Jie'') The warrior deity Zhenwu, assisted by the Snake General and the Tortoise General, in Yangzhou's Wudangxing Palace (武当行宫, ''Wudangxing gong''), a Taoist temple in Dongguang St (东关街, ''Dongguan Jie'') Hongyuan Market, a popular craft and antique market just north of the city center Hongyuan Market, a popular craft and antique market just north of the city center Ganquan Road Ganquan Road Baozi at the Fuchun Tea House Baozi at the Fuchun Tea House Xiaohongqiao ( Xiaohongqiao ("The Little Rainbow Bridge") over the not-so grand Xiaoqinhuaihe Canal in Yangzhou's old city Public art in one of Yangzhou's new neighborhoods Public art in one of Yangzhou's new neighborhoods