Huzhou

Introduction

Located in the northern reaches of Zhejiang province, you will find Huzhou situated just south of Lake Tai. This prefecture-level city serves as a geographic crossroads, bordering Jiaxing to your east and Hangzhou to the south.

The region is defined by its proximity to neighboring provinces, with Anhui lying to your west and Jiangsu stretching to the north.

Before you go

Prepare for your journey to Huzhou by understanding its rich heritage as the "Land of Fish and Rice" and "The House of Silk." Located in the Yangtze River Delta, this ancient city has been shaped by its proximity to Lake Tai and its historical ties to nearby Suzhou and Hangzhou. You will find a culture defined by a leisurely pace of life, rooted in centuries of tradition along the south bank of the lake.

As you explore the region, keep these cultural highlights in mind:

• The Huzhou Feather Fan is a renowned handicraft with a history spanning over 1,300 years.
• Local traditions include significant celebrations such as the Spring Festival and the Qingming Festival.
• The local dialect belongs to the Wu dialect group, sharing similarities in phonology and grammar with neighboring regions.

Getting there

You can reach the city by train via several different stations. High-speed rail options include Huzhou Station, Deqing Station, Changxing Station, and Anji Station, while Changxing South Station and Deqing West Station serve slower trains.

If you prefer to fly, you must travel to Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport as there is no airport located directly in the city. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Suzhou North Square Bus Terminal to reach Huzhou.

Getting around

You can navigate the diverse landscape of Huzhou, which encompasses urban, suburban, and rural areas across two districts and three counties. The region includes the Wuxing District, the Nanxun District—named after the historic town of Nanxun—and the rural landscapes of Changxing, Deqing, and Anji counties.

Several transportation options are available for your travels:

• Numerous digital and dedicated bus lines serve the area.
• Taxis provide a convenient way to travel between locations.
• Public bicycles offer an option for short trips with specific rental structures based on time used.

Where to stay

You can choose from various accommodations that cater to different preferences for your stay in Huzhou. For a unique experience, you can stay at a floating hotel situated on the water of Taihu Lake; its distinct shape makes it a prominent symbol of the city.

Alternatively, you can find comfort in well-established options:

• Stay in the Nanxun District near an area known for dining and entertainment.
• Choose a long-established hotel located in the Wuxing District near Lianhuazhuang Park and Yishang Street.

Food & drink

Savor the diverse flavors of Huzhou by exploring local specialties and regional favorites. You can enjoy a light meal featuring crispy farm chicken soup or fragrant seafood fried vermicelli in a Republic of China-style garden setting, or visit a time-honored hotel known for its traditional local dishes. For an authentic experience favored by locals, find a private kitchen where you can sample waxy, fragrant traditional sausage while overlooking the water. Other notable options include a lakeside restaurant serving Taihu Three Whites and a wine bistro offering tender piglet ribs paired with dense, aromatic desserts.

Refresh your palate with local beverages across various settings:

• Savor Anji White Tea, a famous green tea known for its unique shape, color, and aroma.
• Visit a coffee museum to enjoy pure coffee and freshly baked waffles.
• Experience the variety of a sweet water shop in Nanxun Ancient Town to try a Grand Slam.
• Relax at a tea house in the Silk Town Wetland Landscape Park with jasmine or rose tea.
• Choose from expertly crafted drinks at a professional bar or enjoy an Australian white at a cafe featuring an open platform and scenic views.

What to see and do

Explore the cultural heritage of the region by visiting the Huzhou Museum, which features exhibitions on local history, craftsmanship, and classical furniture, or visit the Greek-style Huzhou Art Museum to view calligraphy and fine arts. For a more immersive historical experience, wander through Nanxun Ancient Town, a prominent water town, or find tranquility in Linghu Ancient Town, where Ming and Qing Dynasty buildings remain preserved alongside small bridges and flowing water. If you prefer a less crowded atmosphere, the Silk Town Digang Ancient Village offers a glimpse into an original, thousand-year-old settlement.

Nature lovers can find refreshment in the bamboo forests of Anji County or experience the cool mountain air of Moganshan and Tashan Forest Park. You can also explore various local parks: Lianhuazhuang Park features ancient trees and lotus ponds, while Huzhou Changdao Park provides a spacious setting for exercise and viewing tulips in the spring. For those interested in unique landscapes, Xishan Yang Wetland Scenic Area offers a vast expanse of water and greenery. Depending on the season, you can participate in local traditions such as the Peach Blossom Festival or experience the lively atmosphere of the Fangfeng Temple Fair.

You can experience a variety of seasonal conditions when visiting Huzhou, which features a north subtropical monsoon climate. You will encounter hot summers and cool winters throughout your stay.

Three days in Huzhou

Day one, you can begin your journey by arriving at Huzhou Station or exploring the nearby areas of the Yangtze River Delta. You can spend your time taking in the local atmosphere and experiencing the culture of the region.

Day two, you can travel to see the scenic landscapes near Lake Tai. You might also explore the surrounding districts to experience the local scenery and traditions.

Day three, you can visit nearby locations such as Jiaxing or Hangzhou before concluding your trip in the area.