Huzhou actually hides a lesser-known ancient town, and it's totally worth the trip!!!

Nanxun Ancient Town, located in Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, is a Jiangnan water town with over 750 years of history. It is renowned for its blend of Chinese and Western architectural styles, rich cultural heritage, and tranquil water town charm. --- ### **1. Ticket Information** - **Combo Ticket**: ¥100/person (includes 6 major attractions: Xiaolianzhuang, Jiaye Hall Library, Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence, Liu’s Ladder House, Zhang Jingjiang’s Former Residence, etc.). - **Single-Attraction Tickets**: Some attractions like Xiaolianzhuang (¥25) and Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence (¥20) can be purchased separately. - **Free Admission**: - Children under 1.2m (inclusive), seniors aged 70+ (inclusive), active military personnel, and disabled visitors. - Seniors aged 60-70, students, and teachers enjoy half-price discounts. - **Nighttime Free Access**: The ancient town area is free to enter, with only certain attractions requiring tickets. --- ### **2. Transportation Guide** - **High-Speed Rail**: Take the train to Huzhou Station, then transfer to Bus 101 directly to Nanxun (about 1 hour). - **Self-Drive**: About 1.5 hours from Hangzhou. Navigate to "Nanxun Ancient Town," with multiple parking lots available (¥15-20 per entry). - **Bus**: - From Huzhou Bus Station, take Bus K282 (about 40 minutes). - From Jiaxing North Bus Station, take Bus K216 (about 50 minutes). --- ### **3. Recommended Itinerary** **One-Day Highlights Route** 1. **Morning**: Xiaolianzhuang (lotus viewing) → Jiaye Hall Library → Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence (blend of Chinese and Western architecture). 2. **Afternoon**: Liu’s Ladder House (red-brick Western-style building) → Baijian Lou (Ming-Qing architectural complex) → Zhang Jingjiang’s Former Residence. 3. **Evening**: Tongjin Bridge (sunset photography) → Baijian Lou night views. --- ### **4. Must-Visit Attractions** - **Baijian Lou**: Riverside Ming Dynasty buildings, stunning night views, perfect for photos. - **Xiaolianzhuang**: Private garden of late Qing tycoon Liu Yong, with blooming lotuses in summer. - **Zhang Shiming’s Former Residence**: "The First Mansion of Jiangnan," blending Baroque and Chinese styles. - **Liu’s Ladder House**: Red-brick Western-style building with hidden historical secrets. - **Tongjin Bridge**: One of Nanxun’s three ancient bridges, ideal for sunset photography. --- ### **5. Food Recommendations** - **Shuangjiao Noodles**: Signature Nanxun dish with fried fish and crispy pork toppings. - **Xun Ti**: Century-old braised pork, tender and flavorful. - **Qianzhang Bao**: Tofu skin wrapped around meat filling, savory and delicious. - **Xiuhuajin Cai**: A unique Nanxun vegetable, fresh and crisp. - **Three-Course Tea**: Experience traditional tea culture with smoked bean tea, wind-dried rice tea, and clear tea. --- ### **6. Accommodation Recommendations** - **Riverside Inns**: Nanxun Tea Charm, Lotus Talk Inn—experience sleeping by the water. - **Boutique Hotels**: Nanxun Shangyuge Hot Spring Hotel, Ruisi Yuan Inn. - **Budget-Friendly Stays**: Home Inn (Nanxun Ancient Town Branch), conveniently located. --- ### **7. Best Travel Seasons** - **Spring & Autumn** (Mar-May, Sep-Nov): Pleasant weather, perfect for strolling. - **Summer** (Jun-Aug): Lotus blooms at Xiaolianzhuang, boat rides available. - **Winter** (Dec-Feb): Festive atmosphere, ancient architecture shines. --- ### **8. Practical Tips** - **Water Bus**: ¥3/stop, operates 9:30 AM–4:00 PM (every ~30 minutes). - **Hanfu Rental**: Rent traditional Hanfu (~¥80/day) for photogenic moments. - **Avoid Scams**: Be cautious of "on-the-spot pearl extraction" and stick to reputable shops like "Yebiqi" for snacks. --- Nanxun Ancient Town offers both the serenity of a traditional water town and the fusion of Chinese and Western cultures. Whether you're a history buff, photography enthusiast, or leisure traveler, you’ll find a unique experience here.