Strolling Through the Misty Jiangnan Ancient Towns

Embark on a grand tour of Jiangnan + Western Hunan's ancient towns! This route connects 4 hidden gem towns into a stunning cultural journey, blending the gentle charm of Jiangnan water towns with the bold spirit of borderland landscapes~ 🌟Lili Ancient Town (Suzhou) 📍Address: Lili Town, Wujiang District, Suzhou The most underrated among Jiangnan's six great ancient towns! Retaining its original waterscape charm without over-commercialization, perfect for leisurely exploration. Must-try local favorites: fried dough balls (Youdunzi) and spicy chicken feet. Don't miss the former residence of Liu Yazi. 🌟Furong Town (Yongshun) 📍Address: Furong Town, Yongshun County, Western Hunan A millennium-old town "hanging" on a waterfall! Breathtaking night views - stay overnight for the light show. Try Tujia specialties: fermented tofu and cured pork. Recommended restaurant: "World's First Tower" with waterfall-view dining. 🌟Hexia Ancient Town (Huai'an) 📍Address: Hexia Ancient Town, Huai'an District, Huai'an Hometown of Wu Cheng'en, author of "Journey to the West"! Famous for Wenlou steamed soup dumplings that burst with broth. Explore well-preserved Ming-Qing era residences and Wu Cheng'en's former home. 🌟Biancheng Chadong (Huayuan) 📍Address: Biancheng Town, Huayuan County, Western Hunan The real-life setting of Shen Congwen's "Border Town"! Stand where three provinces meet (Hunan, Chongqing, Guizhou). Must experience the 2-yuan hand-pulled ferry. Stay in riverside stilt houses for magical morning mists. 🚗Transport Tips: Recommended self-drive or high-speed rail + chartered car combo. Suzhou-Huai'an by high-speed rail takes 1.5 hours. Charter cars work best for Western Hunan section. Direct shuttles connect all towns. 🍜Foodie Bonus: Suzhou's Youdunzi, Western Hunan's cured meat hotpot, Huai'an's Wenlou soup dumplings, Border Town's horn fish... This route is a food lover's paradise!