I rarely use the word "stunning" to describe an ancient city.

After exploring all over Jiangnan, I discovered a hidden gem of an ancient city, a pearl in the vast ocean. "Stunning" is the only word that comes close to describing it: the tidal city of Yan Guan. ✅ Emperor Qianlong visited Jiangnan six times, four of which were to Yan Guan. ✅ Witness the must-see Qiantang River tidal bore. ✅ Explore century-old houses + Jiangnan gardens. ✅ Only a 40-minute drive from Hangzhou. - 🚶Route Yan Guan Tide Wall 👉🏻 Tide-watching Scenic Park 👉🏻 Gongchen Gate 👉🏻 North Street 👉🏻 Imperial Wharf 👉🏻 Chen Gelao's Residence 👉🏻 Confucius Temple and School 👉🏻 Sea God Temple 👉🏻 Jin Yong Academy 👉🏻 Yan Guan Music House Museum ✔️ Emperor Qianlong's four visits to Yan Guan were all in March. Follow in his footsteps on a spring tour, and experience the unique charm of Jiangnan. . ✅Must-see attractions 1⃣️ Yan Guan Tide Wall Located right at the entrance of the scenic area, the tidewater cascades down the wall accompanied by music. It's truly stunning! Open every hour, for 15 minutes. - 2⃣️ Tide-watching Scenic Park Witness the spectacular Qiantang River tidal bore, a wonder of the world, just like in your Chinese textbook. See with your own eyes the awe-inspiring sight described by Su Shi as "magnificent beyond compare," and marvel at the mysteries of nature. - 3⃣️ Gongchen Gate The 600-year-old Yuan Dynasty city wall bears the marks of time. The sight of the *wupeng* boats passing through is picturesque. - 4⃣️ Intoxicating Jiangnan Afternoon Tea Cruise Embark from Changmu Bridge Wharf, and enjoy afternoon tea while admiring the beautiful scenery of the ancient city. This is the perfect way to appreciate the Jiangnan spring. - 5⃣️ Confucius Temple and School & Sea God Temple The red walls, reminiscent of the Forbidden City, are perfect for photos. Emperor Qianlong would also come here to pray during his southern tours. - 6️⃣ Yan Guan Music House Museum If you're interested in music, this is a must-visit. Immerse yourself in the creative stories of musicians. - 7️⃣ Chen Gelao's Residence Magnolia flowers are in bloom in this ancient house with its blue bricks and black tiles. Its prominent history and familiar stories are still talked about today. - 8️⃣ Qianlong Hot Pot Feast After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a grand meal. Recreate the scene of Emperor Qianlong enjoying hot pot during his southern tours, and savor the unforgettable experience. 🏨 Accommodation I recommend staying a night in the scenic area. In the evening, with fewer tourists, you can stroll through the ancient city and enjoy the misty Jiangnan scenery in peace. I stayed at the Xuande Gate Hotel, a century-old house converted from Zhu Xi's former residence. With its white walls and black tiles, every step reveals a different view. It's like living in a painting, and a great place for taking photos.