Nestled in central Jiangsu province, the gentle water city of Taizhou transforms into a natural summer retreat as the mercury rises, blending misty wetlands, emerald aquatic forests, time-honored ancient towns and quaint classical gardens for an unforgettable warm-weather escape.
Qinhu National Wetland Park: Taizhou's only national 5A-level wetland park features clear lakes lined with lush reeds. Visitors can cruise across rippling waters to spot water birds, breathe in fresh lotus-scented air, get up close with elks, and savor the iconic delicacies for a fully immersive rural water-town experience.
An aerial view of Qinhu Lake National Wetland Park in early summer. [Photo/IC]
Lizhong Water Forest Park: A natural gem where thousands of metasequoia trees grow right out of the water, keeping the woodland 3-5 C cooler than the urban area. Drifting on a bamboo raft under the tree canopies through misty trails feels like stepping into a real-life Land of Oz, making it a top pick for family and friend summer trips.
Visitors glide through the emerald maze of water metasequoia on a bamboo raft at Lizhong Water Forest Park. [Photo/WeChat account: tztour]
Taizhou Old Street: A time-honored food and culture block showcasing the typical architecture of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties. As lanterns glow at dusk, visitors can wander the breezy alleys, taste local treats including crispy Huangqiao sesame cakes, tender Qinhu fish balls and fragrant Taizhou stinky dried tofu, while also browsing intangible cultural heritage handicraft stalls.
Huangqiao sesame cakes. [Photo/WeChat account: tztour]
Fengcheng River Scenic Area: Home to Jiangsu's best-preserved thousand-year-old moat, it is a perfect spot for summer night tours. Cruising on a painted boat after dark, you can admire shimmering light reflections on the water, drift past landmark pavilions and gardens, and listen to soft traditional opera melodies carried on the breeze.
A night view of Fengcheng River. [Photo/WeChat account: tztour]
Qiaoyuan Garden: This well-preserved Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasty classical garden hides cool caves among rockeries, alongside lotus ponds brimming with round green leaves. It is an ideal quiet spot to escape the summer heat and soak up the delicate charm of Jiangnan's traditional garden aesthetics.
Qiaoyuan Garden. [Photo/WeChat account: tztour]
