Hidden Corners of China

I have finally had the opportunity to visit China on a ten-day journey, and as a first-time traveller to a destination like this, I can confidently say that using a trusted tour company such as MW Tours is highly recommended.

Rather than visiting the usual, well-known cities, my first trip to China took me off the beaten path and I am so glad it did. I began my journey flying into the Suzhou region, before travelling through a series of lesser visited yet fascinating cities including Zhangjiagang, Xinghua, Taizhou, Yangzhou, Nanjing, and finishing in the beautiful city of Hangzhou.

Below, I share my experience for anyone interested in embarking on a similar journey through this remarkable part of China.

Zhangjiagang & Xinghua Highlights

Our journey in Zhangjiagang began at Shazhou Youhuang Cultural Park, an ancient water village where we learned how traditional rice wine is made, enjoyed a tasting, and shared a Chinese-style lunch. The visit also included time to browse the gift shop featuring porcelain jewellery, decorative wine vessels, and locally produced rice wine.

We then attended the launch of the Cycling Tour of 100 Scenic Spots of the Yangtze River, which included a ferry ride across the Yangtze River and a 3km bike ride, offering insight into the experience of this unique cycling tour. The evening was spent exploring lively night markets, enjoying local food, crafts, and a drone show, before finishing with hot pot for dinner.

Accommodation: Marriott Zhangjiagang

We travelled to Xinghua, stopping for lunch at Tianbao Garden Hotel. The afternoon included visits to Li Zhong Park and the stunning Qianduo Scenic Area (Thousand Island Ditch Field Scenic Area), known for its distinctive water-based agricultural landscape. The day concluded with dinner at the hotel.

Accommodation: Changjiu International Hotel

Xinghua, Taizhou & Yangzhou

We began the day exploring Qingtong Ancient Town, a charming historic village, before enjoying lunch at Hailing Yizhichun Restaurant. The afternoon included a visit to Taihetang Chinese Medicine Clinic with a local Tai Chi lesson, followed by tours of Mei’s Garden and Qiao’s Garden. We strolled along Taizhou Traditional Street, sampling local culture and crafts. The evening featured a night cruise on the Fengcheng River, showcasing Taizhou’s illuminated riverside views.

Accommodation: Taizhou Chunlan State Guest House

Our journey continued to Yangzhou, starting with the Yangzhou Grand Canal Museum and Daming Temple, followed by lunch at Yangzhou Banquet Restaurant. In the afternoon, we visited Slender Lake Park and Ge Garden, including the beautiful Bamboo Garden, then explored Geyuan Garden and the bustling Dongguan Ancient Street. The day concluded with dinner at Changle Hotel and a relaxing soak at Yangzhou Slender West Lake Hot Spring Resort, complete with a foot massage.

Accommodation: Yangzhou Slender West Lake Hot Spring Resort

Yangzhou to Nanjing

We started the day with breakfast at Xiangyuan Tea House before transferring to Nanjing. Our sightseeing included the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum, followed by lunch at Nanjing Impressions. In the afternoon, we explored the Ruins Park of Grand Bao’en Temple and the China Museum of Imperial Examination. Dinner was at Qinhuai Renjia Restaurant, and the evening concluded with a night tour of Confucius Temple and the Qinhuai River Scenic Area, where the river and historic architecture were beautifully illuminated.

The day began with a visit to Zhonghua Gate City Wall and the historic East Area of the Old Gate, followed by a stroll through Laomendong Historic Street. We then ventured to Niushou Mountain (Mount Ox’s Head) for scenic views. Dinner was at Yidan Vegetarian Restaurant, after which we explored Jinling Traditional Town.

Accommodation: Cloud Places Resort Hotel

Nanjing to Hangzhou

After transferring to Hangzhou, we enjoyed lunch at the hotel before exploring the iconic West Lake, Huagang Guanyu Park, and Hefang Street. In the afternoon, we visited Lingyin Temple and Flying Peak, taking in the serene scenery and historic architecture. Dinner was at a Thai restaurant, and we stayed overnight at Ramada Hangzhou.

The day began with a conference at Ramada, followed by lunch at the hotel. In the afternoon, we experienced a cultural performance at Song Town and visited the Meijiawu Tea Garden, where we learned about Hangzhou’s famous tea culture.

Accommodation: Ramada Hangzhou

Hangzhou & Departure

We visited Xixi Wetland Park, a tranquil natural reserve, where I paid 100 Yuan to shuck an oyster for pearls and even made my own jewelry. The day continued at Wensan Digital Precinct and included a traditional Chinese tea experience, offering insight into Hangzhou’s famed tea culture.

Our final day was a leisure day before heading home. Lunch was at the luxurious Wyndham Hotel, featuring a full Western-style buffet with everything from lamb, steak, and seafood to desserts, ice cream, and self-serve drinks. It was the perfect way to end the journey on a high note.

Accommodation: Ramada Hangzhou

Hot Tips from My China Trip

Food & Beverage:

• Most hotel breakfasts were Chinese-style with limited Western options

• Lunches and dinners were mostly traditional Chinese banquet-style, featuring shared dishes of local specialties like duck blood soup, duck tongue, chicken feet, baby octopus, hairy crabs, river snails, roasted duck heads, pig ears, pork belly, braised beef, dumplings, and plenty of fried rice.

• Hot pot dinners at night markets were fun and interactive, and Western fast food chains (McDonald’s, KFC, Starbucks) were also available nearby.

• The banquet-style meals offered exotic dishes as a way of welcoming guests. If you prefer familiar foods like sweet and sour pork, fried rice, noodles, or beef in black bean sauce, you can sit in regular restaurant seating rather than the reserved banquet rooms.

Experiences & Activities:

• Cruises along the rivers and lakes were unforgettable. Highlights included Jinling Traditional Town, Niushou Mountain, Li Zhong Water Forest, and Qianduo Scenic Area with its wildflower fields.

• Activities suit a broad range of travellers: families and children will love the Water Forest and Qianduo Scenic Area, while history and culture enthusiasts will appreciate temples, ancient streets, gardens, and tea experiences.

• The itinerary is perfect for those looking to combine culture, nature, and hands-on local experiences.