Haining: A Romantic Coastal Getaway Just 1 Hour from Hangzhou

**I. Itinerary Recommendations** **Day 1: Tidal Rhythms and Leather Delights in Haining** * Morning: Arrive in Haining and head to Yanguan Scenic Park, a renowned spot for tide watching, to witness the magnificent "World's Best Tide." Check the tide times in advance and choose the best viewing spot. * Lunch: Savor Haining's specialties, such as Gangrou (pork belly), Yanqiu (fish balls), and Songhuagao (pine flower cake). * Afternoon: Visit the China Leather City, the largest leather market in the country, where you can find affordable leather jackets, bags, and more. * Evening: Check in to a hotel in Haining. We recommend Haining Kaiyuan Mingdu Hotel or Haining Leather City Jinjiang Hotel. **Day 2: Poetic Xitang, A Dreamy Water Town** * Morning: Travel to Xitang Ancient Town, stroll along the covered walkways, and immerse yourself in the tranquility and poetry of this Jiangnan water town. Take a traditional Wupeng boat ride to experience the water town charm. * Lunch: Enjoy Xitang's culinary delights, such as Qianshigao (water chestnut cake), smoked green beans, and Baishuiyu (white water fish). * Afternoon: Continue exploring Xitang, visiting the Button Museum and the Root Carving Museum to discover the town's rich cultural heritage. * Evening: Check in to a guesthouse within Xitang Ancient Town. We recommend Blossom Hill Inn or Yanyu Jiangnan Inn for a relaxing stay by the water. **Day 3: Red Memories and Misty Pavilions in Jiaxing** * Morning: Head to Jiaxing and visit the Nanhu Revolutionary Memorial Hall to relive the history and spirit of the revolution. * Lunch: Indulge in Jiaxing's specialties, such as Jiaxing Zongzi (sticky rice dumplings), Nanhu water chestnuts, and Wenhu Jiangya (cured duck). * Afternoon: Explore the Nanhu Scenic Area, take a boat trip to the island in the center of the lake, and visit the Smoke-Rain Pavilion and the Red Boat. * Evening: Conclude your trip and return home. **II. Food Recommendations** * **Haining Gangrou (Pork Belly):** Tender and melt-in-your-mouth, a classic Haining dish. * **Yanqiu (Fish Balls):** Delicious fish balls, a Haining specialty snack. * **Songhuagao (Pine Flower Cake):** Made with glutinous rice flour and pine pollen, a sweet and soft traditional Haining cake. * **Xitang Qianshigao (Water Chestnut Cake):** Soft and chewy, made with water chestnut flour and glutinous rice flour, known for its health benefits. * **Smoked Green Beans:** Aromatic smoked green beans, a Xitang snack. * **Baishuiyu (White Water Fish):** A Xitang specialty, known for its tender meat and delicious flavor. * **Jiaxing Zongzi (Sticky Rice Dumplings):** Famous for being glutinous but not mushy, rich but not greasy, and flavorful, a traditional Jiaxing delicacy. * **Nanhu Water Chestnuts:** A Nanhu specialty, tender and flavorful. * **Wenhu Jiangya (Cured Duck):** A traditional Jiaxing dish with a reddish color and savory taste. **III. Accommodation Recommendations** * **Haining Kaiyuan Mingdu Hotel:** Conveniently located in Haining with comprehensive facilities. * **Haining Leather City Jinjiang Hotel:** Close to the China Leather City, offering convenient shopping and a comfortable environment. * **Blossom Hill Inn (Xitang):** Located within Xitang Ancient Town, offering an elegant and poetic atmosphere. * **Yanyu Jiangnan Inn (Xitang):** Situated by the water in Xitang Ancient Town, allowing you to experience the water town charm. **IV. Nearby Attractions** * **Wuzhen:** Approx. 30 km from Xitang, one of the six ancient towns of Jiangnan, attracting visitors with its authentic water town scenery and rich cultural heritage. * **Hangzhou:** Approx. 60 km from Haining, the capital of Zhejiang Province, home to the West Lake, Lingyin Temple, and many other famous attractions. * **Shanghai:** Approx. 100 km from Haining, the largest city in China, boasting modern landmarks such as the Bund and the Oriental Pearl Tower. **V. Travel Experience** Haining and Jiaxing, between the ebb and flow of the tides, offer a poetic Jiangnan experience, red memories, and a culinary paradise. Here, you can witness the wonders of nature, appreciate the unique charm of Jiangnan water towns, and savor authentic local cuisine. This journey will surely leave you with unforgettable memories. **Friendly Reminders:** * The tides in Haining are strong. Please be cautious while watching the tide and avoid dangerous areas. * The roads in Xitang Ancient Town are narrow. Walking is recommended. Please pay attention to traffic safety. * There are many varieties of Jiaxing Zongzi. Please purchase from reputable vendors and pay attention to food hygiene. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Haining and Jiaxing. Have a wonderful journey!