Is the Ink Pond Where Wang Xizhi Washed His Brushes Still There? How Many Secrets Are Hidden in Shaoxing's Hometown of the Calligraphy Sage?

### **2025 Shaoxing Travel Guide: A Perfect 3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary** Shaoxing, a 2,500-year-old Jiangnan water town, is famous for its white walls and black tiles, black-canopied boats, and yellow wine. Below is a **3-day, 2-night** practical itinerary covering culture, nature, and cuisine, with a budget of around **800 RMB per person**, perfect for a weekend or short getaway. --- **Itinerary** **Day 1: Cultural Shaoxing** - **Lu Xun’s Hometown** (Free, reservation required): Step into the "Hundred-Grass Garden" and "Sanwei Study" from textbooks and experience Lu Xun’s childhood. Arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds. - **Shen Garden** (Day ticket 40 RMB, Night ticket 98 RMB including performance): A Song-style garden where you can admire lotus flowers by day and watch the Yue opera *The Phoenix Hairpin* at night, immersing yourself in the love story of Lu You and Tang Wan. - **Cangqiao Straight Street** (Free): Shaoxing’s most vibrant old street, a must-visit for stinky tofu and cream puffs. Best for photos at dusk. **Day 2: Nature and Ancient Charm** - **East Lake** (50 RMB): Take a black-canopied boat through the "landscape bonsai," a filming location for *Journey to the West*. The sunset reflecting off the cliffs is breathtaking. - **Orchid Pavilion** (70 RMB): A sacred site for calligraphy, where you can experience the "floating wine cups along the winding stream." Wear Hanfu for traditional photos—the white geese in the Goose Pond are a highlight. - **Anchang Ancient Town** (Free): A living Jiangnan water town, with sausages and preserved ducks hanging from the eaves. Try soy sauce ice cream and yellow wine. **Day 3: In-Depth Experiences** - **Keyan Scenic Area** (130 RMB, includes Jian Lake and Luzhen): Marvel at the 20-story-high Heavenly Stone Buddha, cruise Jian Lake on a painted boat, and watch Luzhen’s folk opera, which brings Lu Xun’s water town to life. - **Hometown of the Calligraphy Sage** (Free): Visit Wang Xizhi’s former residence and explore the authentic local life of old Shaoxing, including secondhand book hunting and traditional snacks. - **City Boat Night Tour** (From 80 RMB): Cruise the moat or Jian Lake on a painted boat to enjoy light shows and the ancient city’s nightscape. --- **Practical Tips** 1. **Transportation**: Taxis between attractions cost 20–40 RMB, or take buses/bike-sharing. 2. **Ticket Discounts**: 2025 combo ticket (210 RMB, includes East Lake, Orchid Pavilion, Shen Garden, etc.), with half-price for students/seniors. 3. **Food Recommendations**: - **Breakfast**: Auntie A’Zhen’s Pancake (Lu Xun West Road), Nine-Section Bridge Noodle Shop (pork lard noodles). - **Meals**: Hebutou (Shaoxing home-style dishes), Old Beard Restaurant (must-try for late-night eats). - **Snacks**: Yellow wine milk tea, fermented amaranth with steamed tofu, drunken crab. 4. **Essentials**: Non-slip shoes (wet stone paths), umbrella (rainy during plum season), light jacket (temperature drops at night). **Hassle-Free Option**: Buy a combo ticket + private car hire, or book a local guide (e.g., Ah Q Travel) for VIP access. Shaoxing summers are humid—wear quick-dry clothes and bring mosquito repellent [happy]