Lishui in March: Your Ultimate Guide! Inspired by a Song, Drawn to a City

Hey friends👋! Has a song ever captivated you, like a gentle breeze carrying the fresh scent of mountain forests, stirring a longing for a picturesque city nestled in the mountains and waters of Southern Zhejiang? The song "Praise of Lishui" does just that, with its powerful yet graceful melody and poetic lyrics painting a vivid picture of Lishui's beauty: "Beautiful mountains and clear waters, naturally stunning, peaks standing tall, bamboo forests swaying, the Ou River flowing, boats competing to sail, ancient weirs and picturesque villages, a timeless legacy." Inspired by this song, I embarked on a journey to this charming land in March. Check out my travel guide! 🌆Lishui Impressions Lishui is like a collection of landscape poems hidden deep within the江南 region, a place of exceptional beauty and pristine ecology. In March, spring returns to Lishui, and flowers bloom in vibrant colors. The canyons of Jinyun Mountain are deep and serene, shrouded in mist. Ancient camphor trees shade the Guyan Huaxiang scenic area, where the river flows gently. The Yunhe Rice Terraces cascade down the slopes, shimmering like ribbons. The aroma of Jinyun baked cakes and Suichang yellow rice cakes fills the streets, creating a blend of natural beauty and local life. Every corner of Lishui exudes a unique charm, like a hidden paradise. 🚗Transportation Guide ✈️Airplane: Fly to Lishui Airport (under construction, travel will be more convenient once completed) or a nearby airport such as Wenzhou Longwan International Airport, then transfer to Lishui by high-speed rail or car, enjoying the scenery of Southern Zhejiang along the way. Within Lishui, public transportation is convenient with Alipay or WeChat payment options. 🚌To reach scenic spots like Jinyun Mountain and Guyan Huaxiang, take a convenient tourist bus or rent a bicycle and cycle along the Ou River, feeling the gentle breeze and exploring the hidden beauty. 🗺Itinerary Day 1: Guyan Huaxiang - Barbizon Oil Painting Manor - Dagangtou Town (try local snacks) Day 2: Jinyun Mountain - Xiandu Dinghufeng Peak - Yellow Emperor Temple - Jinyun County (accommodation and dining) Day 3: Yunhe Rice Terraces - Return to Lishui city to purchase local specialties like Qingtian stone carvings, Longquan celadon, and Qingyuan mushrooms. 🌟Must-See Attractions 1. Guyan Huaxiang: Stepping into Guyan Huaxiang in March, sunlight filters through ancient camphor trees, casting dappled shadows, perfectly echoing the timeless legacy described in "Praise of Lishui." By the river, artists set up their easels, capturing the beauty before them. Take a traditional boat ride, admire the green hills on both sides, and immerse yourself in the gentle charm of this picturesque water town. Experience Lishui's unique artistic charm and feel the pulse of its history. 2. Jinyun Mountain: Ascend this renowned Taoist mountain in March, where spring bamboo shoots emerge from the earth, adding a touch of green. Dinghufeng Peak rises majestically into the sky, surrounded by swirling mist, creating a scene reminiscent of a fairyland. Stroll through the area, appreciate the harmony of nature and culture, and witness the traces of time. 3. Yunhe Rice Terraces: In March, the terraces begin to fill with water, shimmering like shattered mirrors under the sunlight. The cascading terraces, stretching from the foot to the summit of the mountain, form graceful lines, creating a stunning rural landscape with surrounding villages and forests. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this picturesque scenery and marvel at nature's artistry. 4. Jinyun Baked Cakes: Found everywhere, Jinyun baked cakes are a signature Lishui delicacy. The crispy pastry filled with savory preserved vegetables and pork offers a delightful treat, a perfect way to start your day with local flavor. Practical Tips 🎫Tickets are required for Jinyun Mountain, Guyan Huaxiang, and Yunhe Rice Terraces. Book in advance through official WeChat accounts or online travel platforms for discounts and to avoid queues. Barbizon Oil Painting Manor and some villages are free to explore. Check official websites for opening hours to plan your itinerary effectively. 🍱Food Recommendations 1. Suichang Yellow Rice Cakes: Made from glutinous rice, these golden-colored cakes can be stir-fried or boiled, offering a soft and chewy texture. 2. Qingtian Sugar Cakes: Steamed glutinous rice flour and brown sugar create these sweet and melt-in-your-mouth treats, showcasing Lishui's culinary specialties. 3. Longquan Anren Fish Head: This dish features fish head cooked with local spices, resulting in tender fish and a rich broth, adding a delicious memory to your Lishui trip. 4. Songyang Dragon Boat Festival Tea: Made from various herbs, this refreshing tea is believed to have cooling properties, perfect for everyday enjoyment. 🏨Hotel Accommodation 1. Liandu District Hotels: Lishui Oriental Court Hotel in Liandu District is recommended for its convenient location near the city center, excellent amenities, and comfortable rooms. 2. Jinyun County Hotels: Jinyun Xiangyi Grand Hotel offers great value, close proximity to Jinyun Mountain and Xiandu Dinghufeng Peak, and comprehensive facilities. 💡Tips 1. Lishui experiences significant temperature differences between day and night in March. Bring a warm jacket for the cooler hours. 2. Lishui cuisine tends to be savory and salty. If you prefer milder flavors, inform the restaurant staff. 3. Respect the environment and local customs during your visit. Friends, inspired by "Praise of Lishui," I discovered the city's endless charm. Plan your trip and embark on this Southern Zhejiang mountain and water adventure💖!