Back from Haining, let me tell you the honest truth! I came to this city because of a song.
🎵 "Haining tide, a wonder of the world, in the stories of Yan'guan Ancient Town, a trendy place for leather fashion, charming Haining welcomes you..." When this song, "Charming Haining," played, the bold yet elegant lyrics and passionate melody, like a powerful wave, pushed my yearning for Haining to its peak. In March of this year, filled with anticipation, I embarked on a wonderful 4-day journey to Haining. Come along with me!
🌆 Haining, located in the north of Zhejiang Province, sits on the Hangjiahu Plain. In March, Haining enjoys a gentle spring breeze and warm sunshine, awakening all things from their slumber. Here, you'll find the world-famous Haining tide, surging and magnificent, showcasing the majestic power of nature; the ancient and elegant Yan'guan Ancient Town, with its bluestone roads and Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture, carrying a rich history; and unique delicacies such as Gangrou (pork braised in a pot) and Yanqiu (meatballs), each bite filled with the boldness and delicacy of Haining people. History and life intertwine, and every corner exudes a unique charm.
🚌 Transportation Guide:
✈️ After arriving at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport, you can easily reach downtown Haining by airport bus, high-speed rail, or car. For getting around the city, buses cover most scenic spots. If you want to go to suburban attractions such as the Yan'guan Tide-watching Scenic Area, taking the special tourist bus is the most convenient way. Along the way, you can enjoy the idyllic scenery of Haining and experience the unique charm of the blend of a Jiangnan water town and a coastal city 😃.
🎯 Recommended Itinerary:
Day 1-2: Haining City - Yan'guan Ancient Town - Chancellor's Residence Street
Day 1:
Morning: Stepping into Yan'guan Ancient Town is like traveling back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The antique city gates and bluestone streets wind their way forward, lined with traditional handicraft shops and time-honored restaurants. Stroll along the streets, feel the charm of time, and explore the historical context of Haining.
Noon: Enjoy Haining Gangrou in the ancient town. This dish resembles Dongpo Pork but has a unique cooking method. Cooked in a pot, the meat is tender, melts in your mouth, and is rich but not greasy. Served with soft and glutinous rice, it's pure bliss.
Afternoon: Visit Chancellor's Residence Street, named after the residence of Chancellor Chen from the Qing Dynasty. The residence boasts magnificent architecture and deep courtyards. Wandering through it, you can imagine the prosperity of the past and enjoy Haining's characteristic folk performances, such as shadow puppetry, experiencing the charm of traditional culture. Stay overnight in the ancient town to experience the tranquility of the night.
Day 2:
Morning: Visit Yan'guan Ancient Town again. Take advantage of the fewer crowds in the early morning, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the tranquil beauty of the ancient town in the morning light, starting a day full of energy.
Noon: Enjoy a Haining home-style meal in the city and try Yanqiu, a specialty made with fish and pork. The meatballs are round, tender, and served in a delicious broth, showcasing the exquisite cuisine of Haining.
Afternoon: After a short rest, visit the Haining Museum. The museum has a rich and diverse collection, from ancient porcelain and calligraphy and paintings to objects reflecting the modern development of Haining, comprehensively showcasing the historical changes of Haining, immersing you in a sea of knowledge and providing a deep understanding of the city's past and present.
Day 3: Haining Tide - Tide-watching Park (different times)
Morning: According to the tide forecast, go to Tide-watching Park to watch the Haining tide. As the tide rushes in, it's like ten thousand horses galloping, with a sound like thunder. The surging tide crashes against the embankment, splashing waves several meters high. The spectacular sight is truly shocking, allowing you to experience the majestic power of nature.
Noon: Have a simple meal near Tide-watching Park. If you still have energy, you can visit the Haining China Leather City, where all kinds of fashionable leather goods and trendy styles are gathered, allowing you to experience the fashion charm of Haining as the "Leather Capital."
Day 4: Xu Zhimo's Former Residence - Return Trip
Morning: Visit Xu Zhimo's Former Residence, a building with the characteristics of Jiangnan residential architecture. Explore the former residence, learn about the life story of this romantic poet, appreciate his literary works, and soak up some poetic atmosphere.
Noon: After a simple meal nearby, embark on your return journey, filled with memories and fondness for Haining.
🌟 Must-visit:
📍Haining God Temple in Yan'guan Ancient Town: With the magnificent architecture of the Haining God Temple, the solemn atmosphere, and the stone lions in front of the gate as a backdrop, taking photos in front of the temple captures the most iconic historical image of Haining, leaving a stunning travel memory. Whether it's sunny or drizzling, it has a unique charm.
📍Tide-watching Platform in Tide-watching Park: With the surging tide and the vast river as a backdrop, taking photos on the tide-watching platform creates a wonderful atmosphere, showcasing the magnificent beauty of the Haining tide.
💕 Travel Experience:
This four-day trip to Haining was a feast of history, nature, and cuisine. The simplicity of Yan'guan Ancient Town and the magnificence of the Haining tide immersed me in the charm of Haining; the tenderness of Gangrou and the smoothness of Yanqiu made me fall in love with this city. Haining in March, with its grandeur and gentleness, captivated me. I left with a heart full of reluctance, looking forward to returning to continue my story with it.
🍱 Local Food Recommendations:
🥘Haining Gangrou: Tender meat, rich but not greasy, melts in your mouth.
🥟Yanqiu: Round meatballs, tender texture, delicious broth.
🥓Haining Chigao (rice cake): Soft, sweet, melts in your mouth, with a delicate fragrance.
🍜Chang'an Noodles: Chewy noodles, delicious broth, rich toppings.
🦀Haining Drunken Crab: Fresh crab meat, rich wine aroma, unique flavor.
Haining's food is as tempting as its scenery. Come and experience it, and maybe you'll fall in love with this city like I did, because of a song!