Changzhou｜Off-Peak Travel, It's So Chill Here!

🚗Tired of crowds? Off-peak travel to Changzhou by car is the ultimate chill! Summer in Jiangnan is rainy and muggy, but visiting in December offers a different vibe—this underrated gem of a city truly shines. 🗺️Itinerary: Tianjin → Changzhou **D1: Liyang Museum** Arrived in Changzhou in the afternoon, just in time for rain—indoor activities were the perfect choice. The museum’s unique design, inspired by the Jiaowei Qin (a ancient zither), features a photogenic outdoor corridor that feels like a mix of Miyazaki’s fantasy and sci-fi (even better on sunny days!). Inside, exhibits trace Liyang’s history from ancient times to modernity. *Tips:* √ Closed on Mondays. Nearby Cultural Arts Center and Yanhu Park offer stunning views. √ Parking: Free and spacious, suitable for overnight RV stays. √ Admission: Free. **D2: No. 1 Highway — Daxi Reservoir & Dalitan** Two ultra-niche spots with incredible atmosphere. Two days of rain left the already vague routes shrouded in mist. After some exploration, we found Daxi Reservoir—a literal ink-wash painting. The dried-up water revealed redwood roots rarely seen in summer. More like wetlands than a reservoir, the soft ground and foggy backdrop made it feel like wandering through a painting. Dalitan was like stepping into a misty forest. Similarly dried up, the exposed roots resembled tangled white beards, with a neat waterline visible from afar. *Tips:* √ By December, the redwoods start turning red—late autumn offers the most vibrant colors. √ Both spots are along No. 1 Highway, quiet and perfect for a combo visit. **D3: Nanshan Bamboo Sea** Hidden in late autumn’s embrace was a lush green oasis. Rode the bamboo forest cable train, met adorable pandas, took the cable car to the summit (Wu-Yue’s First Peak), explored Bird Paradise, and prayed at Longevity Star Plaza. Ended the day with a mountain-spring hot bath at the hotel—pure bliss. *Tips:* √ Opt for the combo ticket (cable train + cable car + entry) to save energy and maximize fun. √ Dinner in town: Must-try local dishes like black rice and Tianmu Lake fish head casserole. 🏨**Accommodation:** One night in downtown Liyang, one at a Nanshan Bamboo Sea homestay, and one at Yushui Hot Spring Hotel. 👉Sick of crowds? Craving something different? Join us on the road—stay tuned for more!