Bozhou

Bozhou is a historic ancient city rich in Three Kingdoms culture and the heritage of China’s “medicine capital.” Its sights are concentrated and its food is hearty, making it perfect for a slow weekend or short-holiday trip. Here is a classic two-day, one-night itinerary for you, ready to follow as is!

Itinerary

• Day 1: Old-City Architecture and Three Kingdoms Atmosphere
  • Morning: Have beef flatbread with sa soup for breakfast, then head to Cao Cao’s Underground Troop Transport Tunnel to experience the military marvel known as the “Underground Great Wall.”
  • Noon: Sample local snacks on Beiguan Old Street and soak up the lively atmosphere along the blue-stone lanes from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
  • Afternoon: Visit Huaxi Tower to admire its exquisite brick carvings and wood carvings, then go to Nanjing Lane Money House to experience the charm of Qing-dynasty financial architecture.
  • Evening: Take the Guo River Night Painting cruise to watch the light show, or go to the Shiguangli Cultural Tourism Block to browse the night market and watch a Hanfu parade.
• Day 2: Traditional Medicine, Wellness, Museums, and Literary Charm
  • Morning: Visit Huazu Temple to learn about traditional Chinese medicine culture and watch a Five-Animal Exercises performance.
  • Noon: Have a medicinal wellness meal and try free-range chicken stewed with angelica and goji berries.
  • Afternoon: Explore Bozhou Museum to see the jade burial suit threaded with silver, then head to Kangmei Traditional Chinese Medicine City to buy souvenirs such as Bozhou chrysanthemum tea and white peony root.
  • Evening: If you have enough time, you can go to Huatuo Baicao Garden to watch the live Cao Cao performance (tickets need to be purchased in advance).

Must-Visit Attractions

The attractions in downtown Bozhou are very concentrated, and most can be reached on foot or by a short taxi ride. These are the key places to check in:

Must-Try Foods and Shops

Bozhou’s cuisine has a strong northern Anhui character: hearty, satisfying, and delicious. Breakfast and night markets are the highlights:

Transportation and Accommodation Tips

• Transportation: Take the high-speed rail to Bozhou South Station. A taxi from the station to the city center costs about 12 yuan. Downtown attractions are clustered together; the taxi starting fare is 8 yuan, and shared electric bikes are also very convenient.
• Accommodation: It is recommended to stay in the urban area, such as Qiaocheng District, for better value and easier access to food and drinks. If you want to watch the live performance, you can stay near Huatuo Baicao Garden, but note that there may be noise at night near the scenic area entrance.

Pitfalls and Notes

• Troop Transport Tunnel Safety: The tunnels can be slippery after rain, so be sure to wear non-slip shoes. Elderly visitors, tall people, and those with claustrophobia are not advised to enter.
• Buying Medicinal Herbs: Kangmei Traditional Chinese Medicine City is fine for browsing, but compare prices carefully before buying expensive medicinal herbs. Small souvenirs such as Bozhou chrysanthemum tea and bean-starch sheets are recommended.
• Museum Hours: Bozhou Museum is closed on Mondays. Remember to confirm the opening hours before your trip. Admission is free with an ID card.
• Performance Tickets: The Cao Cao live performance at Huatuo Baicao Garden is very popular, so be sure to buy tickets and choose seats in advance through the mini program. Seats around Row 13 in the middle are recommended.