Lishui

Lishui is known as “the last hidden gem of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai,” with breathtaking terraced fields, ancient villages wrapped in mist, and landscapes that feel straight out of a xianxia fantasy. Here is a classic 3-day, 2-night highlights itinerary to help you explore the mountains and rivers of southern Zhejiang with ease.

Must-Visit Attractions

• Jinyun Xiandu: A national 5A-level scenic area where Danxia landforms, striking peaks, and clear streams intertwine. It has served as a filming location for dramas such as The Journey of Flower and Chinese Paladin. Core sights include Dinghu Peak, Zhutan Mountain (the classic ink-painting photo spot of an old farmer leading an ox through the morning mist), and Yandang Study (a cave bookstore converted from a quarry, with stunning light and shadow).

• Yunhe Terraces: The largest terraced field cluster in East China, with more than 700 layers of lush green slopes. Recommended stops include Jiuqu Yunhuan (best for sunrise and a sea of clouds), Qixingdun (360-degree panoramic views), and Baiyin Valley (a quiet ancient village with a creekside boardwalk).

• Guyan Huaxiang: An artistic waterside town along the Ou River, where the thousand-year-old Tongji Weir complements the old streets of the painting village. It is ideal for taking a boat trip on the river and photographing ink-painting-like silhouettes , with a strong literary and artistic atmosphere.

• Songyang Ancient Villages: Known as “the last hidden gem of Jiangnan.” Recommended villages include Yangjiatang Village (its yellow walls and dark-tiled roofs glow like a golden Potala Palace at sunset), Chenjiapu Village (home to a Librairie Avant-Garde bookstore on a cliff), and Songzhuang Village (a rustic 600-year-old village where the stone arch bridge is especially photogenic).

Classic 3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: Jinyun Xiandu + Guyan Huaxiang
  • Morning: Arrive at Jinyun West Railway Station by high-speed train, then take a taxi to Jinyun Xiandu. Visit Dinghu Peak and Zhutan Mountain (arrive before 7 a.m. if you want to photograph the morning mist). Have Jinyun sesame flatbread near the scenic area for lunch.
  • Afternoon: Head to Guyan Huaxiang, take a boat ride on the Ou River, stroll through the old streets of the painting village, and see the thousand-year-old camphor trees.

• Accommodation: It is recommended to stay at a guesthouse near Guyan Huaxiang or in downtown Lishui.

• Day 2: Yunhe Terraces + Songyang Ancient Villages
  • Early Morning: Get up early and head to the Jiuqu Yunhuan viewing platform at Yunhe Terraces to watch the sunrise over a sea of clouds (around 5 a.m. in summer).

• Afternoon: Visit Qixingdun and Baiyin Valley, then drive to Yangjiatang Village in Songyang to see the golden rammed-earth walls at sunset.

• Accommodation: Stay in Songyang County town or at a guesthouse in an ancient village.

• Day 3: Songyang Ancient Villages + Return Trip
  • Morning: Wander around Chenjiapu Village (Librairie Avant-Garde) or Songzhuang Village, and soak up the quiet charm of the original ancient villages.

• Afternoon: Return to downtown Lishui, visit Chuzhou Prefecture City and Yingxing Tower, enjoy local food, then begin your return journey.

Must-Try Foods in Lishui

• Jinyun Sesame Flatbread: Baked over charcoal, crisp on the outside and tender within. The classic filling is pork with preserved mustard greens. Recommended spots include Bingge Shaobing and Guiyin Shaobing.

• Anren Fish Head: Fish head stewed with perilla, with a fresh and flavorful broth. Panji Anren Fish Head is recommended.

• Salt-Braised Chicken: A Songyang specialty with crisp skin and tender meat. Eat it hot for the juiciest bite.

• Rapeseed Hot Pot: A Qingyuan specialty. The rapeseed greens are crisp and sweet, paired with fried tofu puffs and pork for a fresh, refreshing flavor.

• Tofu Balls: Tender outside and savory inside, served in a delicious broth. Sanbao Tofu Balls is recommended.

• Street Snacks: Paojing pork, large wontons, sesame flatbread with fried dough sticks, and Dengzhan cake. A dozen-plus yuan per person is enough to eat your fill.

Practical Travel Tips

• Transport: The attractions are spread out, so driving yourself or hiring a car is strongly recommended. High-speed trains run to Lishui Station and Jinyun West Station; between scenic areas, you can take direct shuttle buses or rideshares.
• Tickets: Jinyun Xiandu costs 90 yuan; the Yunhe Terraces combo ticket costs 80 yuan (valid for 48 hours). It is recommended to buy tickets one day in advance through the official mini program.
• What to Wear: Light-colored outfits photograph best. Wear non-slip athletic shoes, as ancient villages have many steps.
• Pitfall Avoidance: There are many mosquitoes in the mountains, so be sure to bring insect repellent. Mountain weather changes quickly, so pack a light jacket and an umbrella. If driving, expect many mountain roads and drive slowly.