I thought Wuzhen was the most beautiful place in Jiangnan, until I stepped into Puyuan, Jiaxing...

I used to think that the graceful and elegant Wuzhen was the ultimate Jiangnan ancient town, until I encountered Tongxiang Puyuan Fashion Ancient Town, and I realized how little I knew. This ancient town, which has been meticulously protected and developed for nine years, is actually three times the size of Wuzhen. Since then, it has firmly occupied the top spot in my list of ancient towns. Pavilions are scattered, towers face each other, with carved beams and painted buildings, winding corridors, everywhere showing the unique Chinese aesthetics of Jiangnan Song rhyme, every corner is flowing with ancient charm. I have carefully compiled a super detailed guide for food, accommodation, transportation and sightseeing, so please save it! 📍 Address: Puyuan Fashion Ancient Town ⏰ Opening hours: 9:00 - 22:00 🚘 Directions: Only 1.5 hours' drive from Hangzhou or Shanghai; after arriving at Tongxiang Station by high-speed rail, it takes 35 minutes by taxi to reach the destination. 📸 Recommended spots: Fushen Temple: Rebuilt on the original site of Xianghai Chan Temple, it is magnificent. The two ancient ginkgo trees in the temple were planted by Pu Feng, the駙馬of the Pu family, and have experienced nearly a thousand years of baptism. The branches reach the sky and are extremely spectacular. Shufang Zen Garden: A garden landscape integrating a theater and a teahouse, it is a landmark of the scenic spot. The Song-style garden, with misty water, is like a fairyland. If you want to take photos inside, you need to make an appointment in advance on the "Puyuan Tourism Service" mini program. Pu Chamber of Commerce • Pu Treasury: Puyuan used to be an important commercial town in Jiangnan. The Pu Chamber of Commerce reproduces the glory and spirit of Pu merchants 700 years ago. The "Pu Treasury" on the first basement floor should not be missed, which will lead you to appreciate the wealth changes and business legends of Puyuan. Siwan Street: An ancient street with Song Dynasty characteristics. When night falls and the lanterns are lit, it is as if you have traveled back to the Song Dynasty in an instant. There are also Song Street performances, acrobats, storytelling in Washe, and all kinds of authentic Song Dynasty cakes and snacks, a feast for both the tongue and the eyes. North Genglou: A unique sound museum in Puyuan, it is also one of the best viewpoints in the ancient town. Ascend the North Genglou, and the whole view of the ancient town and the scenery of the water town are within sight. ✅ Must-try experiences: - Boating: For only 60 yuan/person, take a sculling boat and drift among the small bridges and flowing water. This is the best way to experience the charm of Jiangnan. - Lantern night tour: Make a lantern by hand at the Dengqiao Lantern Shop, dress in Hanfu, and stroll with the lantern, as if dreaming back to the Tang and Song Dynasties, encountering the prosperity of the past. - Storytelling in Washe: Order a pot of tea, sit by the shore, and listen to a folk art performance, experiencing the leisure and comfort of the ancients. - Marionette show: An immersive performance full of childlike interest, taking you back to the joy and innocence of childhood. 🏠 Accommodation recommendations: There are many hotels and inns in the scenic area, and you can take the sightseeing bus for free unlimited times if you stay in the scenic area. Meishang Resort Hotel is highly recommended, with a new Chinese decoration style, which is grand and Zen-like. The hotel's buffet breakfast is also very rich, starting a wonderful day. 🍜 Food guide: - Special snacks: Pu cakes, Youdunzi, Zongzi, Shaomai, etc., every bite is an authentic Jiangnan flavor. - Recommended restaurants: The Song Dynasty banquet at Siwan Street will let you taste the food culture of the Song Dynasty; the late-night canteen, which is open until midnight, will satisfy your late-night snack needs.