Lishui Travel Guide 2026: Top Attractions, Local Food & Travel Tips | Trip.com

Lishui

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About Lishui

21℃

Recommended length of visit

3-4 days

Local currency

CNY

Must-visit attractions in Lishui

Looking for things to do in Lishui? We provide up-to-date info on everything from must-see scenic spots to local hangouts.

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Best Things to Do

Family-friendly

Fall Viewing

Recommended stays in Lishui

Discover the most popular places to stay in Lishui, complete with recommendations from fellow travelers and special hotel offers

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Must-try food in Lishui

Want to eat like a local? Don't miss out on these top Lishui dishes and foodie spots.

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Recent events and experiences in Lishui

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Lishui itinerary ideas

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3-Day Jinyun & Lishui Tour: Explore Jiaolong Grand Canyon and Yunhe Terraces

3 Days
  1. DAY01Heyang Ancient DwellingsJiaolong Grand Canyon
  2. DAY02Xiandu Scenic Area
  3. DAY03Ancient Weir Home of Painting
  4. DAY03YunHe Rice Terraces
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3-Day Lishui & Songyang Tour: Mystery of Xiandu Scenic Area, Art of Ancient Weir Home of Painting

3 Days
  1. DAY01Xiandu Scenic Area
  2. DAY02Ancient Weir Home of Painting
  3. DAY02YunHe Rice Terraces
  4. DAY03Shuangtong Mountain Scenic AreaYangjiatang Village
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Lishui Area 3-Day Trip: Ancient Villages and Terraced Days

3 Days
  1. DAY01Chenjiapu VillageSongyang Old StreetYangjiatang Village
  2. DAY02Ancient Weir Home of Painting
  3. DAY02YunHe Rice Terraces
  4. DAY03Heyang Ancient DwellingsXiandu Scenic Area
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Traveler photos and experiences

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I've checked it out for you! This is the most underrated Huizhou-style getaway in the Yangtze River Delta. — traveler post in Lishui

I've checked it out for you! This is the most underrated Huizhou-style getaway in the Yangtze River Delta.

I've been seeing recommendations for Huizhou-style ancient villages everywhere lately, but the popular spots are as crowded as a market... So, I asked an insider and booked a stay at Zhici Xianjing Senbo Homestay in Longquan, Lishui. It's a real-life version of "Big Fish & Begonia," and the experience really stays with you 😭 📍Mifengling Village, Lanju Township, Longquan City, Lishui 🚗 A 20-minute drive from downtown Longquan. Driving is recommended—the deeper you go into the mountains, the more serene the road becomes. 🏡 Stay in a 200-year-old Huizhou-style historic building The moment I opened the door, I was stunned—there are five Huizhou-style historic houses, plus a 200-year-old building relocated entirely from Jiangxi, featuring carved beams, painted rafters, and staggered horse-head walls. I stayed in a courtyard king room, which was furnished with Chinese solid wood pieces and warm lighting, exuding classical charm. Opening the window reveals a courtyard that changes with the seasons. The cleanliness was also excellent; it was so spotless that I fell asleep the moment I lay down. ☔️ Rainy days are the most therapeutic It was drizzling the day I checked in. The front desk staff was super thoughtful and brewed a pot of tea for me. I just sat in the pavilion, listening to the white noise of raindrops hitting the bluestone slabs. That sense of being "forced to slow down" is truly more effective than any meditation app 🍃 📸 Save these atmospheric photo spots · Sit sideways in front of the carved wooden window of the historic building, rest your hand on the sill, and take a profile shot—the light and shadow are incredible. · Capture the hem of your skirt while walking around the corners of the pavilions (wearing New Chinese style or a cheongsam looks amazing!). · Take a panoramic shot of the courtyard from the second floor of the Carved Building Cafe; the celadon-toned decor is very atmospheric. · In the evening, photograph the warm glow of the lanterns in the pavilion. 🍵 How to spend your time Spend the afternoon in the tea room drinking tea and reading, or head to the Carved Building Cafe for a pour-over coffee. Facilities also include a chess and card room, KTV, billiards, a gym, and a lobby bar, so you won't be bored at night. The bamboo shoot and pork buns served at breakfast are made fresh that morning—you can't buy these online! Before it gets popular, hurry up and visit this magical Huizhou-style historic house 🍂

A National Day getaway with kids to escape the crowds and explore the hidden gem of Yunhe – a reverse tour! We wanted to avoid the hustle and bustle of crowds during the National Day holiday, but still find a scenic spot not too far away. — traveler post in Lishui

A National Day getaway with kids to escape the crowds and explore the hidden gem of Yunhe – a reverse tour! We wanted to avoid the hustle and bustle of crowds during the National Day holiday, but still find a scenic spot not too far away.

A National Day Getaway with the Kids 🏃 A Reverse Trip to Yunhe, a Treasure Trove of a Small Town If you don't want to queue in the crowds during National Day 🥵, but are looking for a place that's not too far away, has beautiful scenery, and where your kids can burn off energy, I highly recommend Yunhe!!! 🌆This isn't a high-intensity hiking route 🥾, nor is it just a photo op; it's a small town where you can stroll and play at your own pace, where kids are happy and adults can relax 🍃 We took the kids for 2 days and 1 night, a relaxed pace that we personally found very comfortable 😌. Lazy people can just copy our experience 👇 Day 1: In the morning, we went to the Wooden Toy Fairy Tale Town 🏰. Kids are absolutely powerless against wooden toys and fun installations; they can play while also experiencing wooden toy culture. You can also check out the county museum nearby 📜 (closed on Mondays). The indoor area is cool and perfect for escaping the midday sun 🌞 🌿In the afternoon, head to Yunhe Lake Fairy Palace Scenic Area 💧. This is ideal for a leisurely stroll with kids. The lake is tranquil, and the mountains are lush and green 🌲. Children can enjoy watching the boats, the water, and the mountains ⛰️, while adults can take photos. If the weather is good, the lake view is truly photogenic. 🌆In the evening, definitely visit Changting Beach 🏖️. The beach nestled in the mountains offers a striking contrast. Kids can play in the sand and watch the sunset 🌇, while adults can relax nearby. We brought picnic mats and snacks 🍪, and enjoying the evening breeze was much more comfortable than rushing from one tourist attraction to another 😌 Day 2: Yunhe Terraces 🌾 I recommend going to Jiuqu Yunhuan early in the morning. If the weather is good, you can see the terraces, sea of ​​clouds, and sunrise 🌅 The scenery is truly breathtaking 👍 With kids, don't try to do too much; just choose a few viewpoints to explore. Qixingdun is good for panoramic views, while Baiyingu and the farm trails are better for slowly appreciating the rural landscape. 👧🏻 When traveling with kids, I increasingly dislike overly packed schedules 📅 Yunhe is perfect for a "daytime sightseeing, evening rest in the city" pace—it's not tiring for the kids or physically demanding for the parents 💪 If you're looking for a less-traveled family-friendly destination near Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shanghai during the National Day holiday ✈️ Yunhe is definitely on your list ✅

Lishui family outing: this interactive zoo is so fun my kid didn't want to leave — traveler post in Lishui

Lishui family outing: this interactive zoo is so fun my kid didn't want to leave

I'm obsessed! Finally found a magical zoo where you don't have to worry about the weather 😭 The worst part about traditional zoos is the scorching sun or rain, but this place solves that problem completely! A massive 10,000-square-meter, 2-story indoor climate-controlled venue 🌡 Ten ecological themed zones, from the prehistoric deep sea to the Amazon tribe and Gondwana continent... It feels like stepping into a fantasy animal world. Over a hundred small animals roam freely with no cages or nets, so you can get up close and personal. The red pandas, ring-tailed lemurs, Asian small-clawed otters, and prairie dogs are all super friendly 🦦 Kids can interact with them just by reaching out. Watching the otters high-five and the red pandas tilt their heads to be cute made my kid's eyes light up the whole time. It's not just for show; kids learn animal facts while they play, making it a great educational experience. I heard the National Day activities have been upgraded 🎉 Besides the usual animal interactions, there are tons of fun "Cute Beast Coin" games! Audio-visual challenges, bean bag tosses, ring tosses, giant dice, and rock-paper-scissors with NPCs to win snacks—there are 13 interactive games in total that both adults and kids will get hooked on. Play games to earn "Cute Beast Coins," which you can use for DIY activities, opening treasure chests, or redeeming limited-edition gifts 🎁 Collect stamps at 7 locations in the park to get even more prizes! Post on Xiaohongshu/Douyin with the hashtag to get extra coins—the rewards stack up, they really know how to do it. The schedule is packed with performances all day, so you'll never be bored 📣 Opening welcome, happy stage shows, peacock releases, interactive situational dramas, NPC flash mob parades, and the evening carnival parade—the atmosphere is electric! We checked the performance schedule, and there are shows from morning till night, so remember to check the times so you don't miss out. 💡 My honest tips ▪️ The indoor venue is huge, so you don't have to worry about wind or rain—perfect for National Day. ▪️ "Cute Beast Coins" are only valid in the park on the day you earn them and expire at closing, so make sure to use them up. ▪️ It's located right next to Guyan Huaxiang, a half-hour drive from the city center, making it a great stop on your trip. ▪️ I recommend setting aside at least half a day to have enough time for games, shows, and animal interactions. If you don't know where to take the kids for National Day, you should definitely check this place out! An immersive experience playing with animals, plus games and performances—it's a one-stop shop to give parents a break 👨‍👩‍👧

 Yunhe Rice Terraces are truly worth visiting! A guide for the non-touristy traveler — traveler post in Lishui

Yunhe Rice Terraces are truly worth visiting! A guide for the non-touristy traveler

When it comes to seeing rice terraces, many people worry they "only look good in photos." But my feeling about Yunhe Rice Terraces is: as long as you pick the right season and time, the scene is even more stunning than in the lens. This isn't a place just for checking in at a single observation deck, but a mountainous pastoral landscape combining layered rice fields, valley cloud seas, ancient villages, and streams. It's suitable for a slow two-day stroll, not for rushing through to take photos. Highlights The most worth-seeing aspects of Yunhe Rice Terraces are the "layering effect" and "seasonality." During the spring plowing and irrigation period, the terraces look like countless mirrors covering the hillside, reflecting the sky and distant mountains. When the rice waves mature in autumn, the entire hillside turns golden, and the layers of rice fields as the wind blows are especially beautiful. The scenic area is quite large, so I suggest focusing on the Jiuqu Yunhuan, Baiyin Valley, and Kenggen Stone Village areas. View the panoramic terrace view in the morning, walk the streamside trails in the afternoon, and return to the observation point at dusk to wait for the sunset. Photo spots For panoramic shots, I suggest getting up early and heading to the vicinity of Jiuqu Yunhuan. The probability of morning mist and cloud seas is higher. Use a vertical composition to capture the curves of the ridges, distant mountains, and the village together. To shoot the mirror-like terraces, choose the morning or evening during the irrigation period when the light is soft and the reflection on the field surface is cleaner. Kenggen Stone Village is suitable for shooting the "ancient village + rice terrace" combination. Frame your shot from the stone paths outside the village or on the hillside trails, and don't just shoot the front of the houses. The Baiyin Valley route is suitable for shooting bamboo forests, streams, and stone steps. Having the subject stand by the trail and look back is more natural than facing the camera directly. Tips to avoid pitfalls Don't just wear light-colored long skirts to step on the ridges; the edges of the terraces are slippery and narrow. When taking photos, be sure to use the official trails and observation decks. There will be more people at the sunrise spots, so I suggest arriving 30–40 minutes early. If you encounter heavy fog, don't leave immediately. The 10-plus minutes when the clouds and mist disperse are the most photogenic. Regarding transportation, there is distance between the scenic spots, so driving yourself or hiring a car is more convenient. Reserve time for parking and dining during peak season. For accommodation, you can choose a homestay near the scenic area to make getting up early to see the terraces easier, but confirm the room's soundproofing and hot water situation in advance. Overall, Yunhe Rice Terraces are best suited for people who love pastoral scenery, slow travel, and nature photography. There's no need to carry the pressure of "getting the perfect shot." Watching the mist in the morning, strolling through the village in the afternoon, and waiting for the light in the evening makes it easier to encounter surprises.

Escape the crowds! Xinxikeng, Jinyun: A colorful fairytale village nestled in nature. The perfect choice for family fun/laid-back vacations!   Location: Xinxikeng, Rongjiang Township, Jinyun, Lishui — traveler post in Lishui

Escape the crowds! Xinxikeng, Jinyun: A colorful fairytale village nestled in nature. The perfect choice for family fun/laid-back vacations! Location: Xinxikeng, Rongjiang Township, Jinyun, Lishui

Escape the crowds! Xinxikeng, Jinyun: A colorful fairytale village nestled in nature. The perfect choice for family fun/laid-back vacations! 📍 Location: Xinxikeng Village, Rongjiang Township, Jinyun, Lishui (Navigation: Yunqi Lake Waterfront Park) Fewer crowds, beautiful scenery! A hidden gem near Xiandu, peaceful and pristine, free from commercial hustle. 🌸 Colorful fairytale village! Colorful cabins by the lake reflect in the water, picturesque and healing, perfect for photos! 🌿 Family paradise! Yunqi Lake Waterfront Park: Beach water play, interactive facilities, kids have fun, adults relax. ✨ Starlit camping! Fully equipped campsite, watch clouds by day, count stars by night, perfect for cozy BBQ gatherings. 🏠 Quality homestays! A variety of stylish high-to-mid-range homestays available. 🚗 Smart itinerary planning: Close to Xiandu and Yanmen scenic areas. Explore attractions during the day, return to the village to rest in the evening—the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.

Say goodbye to rushed travel! A slow travel guide to Xiandu, Jinyun, Lishui — traveler post in Lishui

Say goodbye to rushed travel! A slow travel guide to Xiandu, Jinyun, Lishui

I wasted a lot of time rushing through Xiandu before. This time, I specifically set aside two days to wander slowly, and realized that this fantasy wonderland, made famous by The Journey of Flower and Chinese Paladin, doesn't need to be rushed. A slow pace is the right way to experience it✨. You don't need to pack your itinerary; the relaxed vibe of going wherever you please is what makes Xiandu so attractive. Xiandu is actually an area made up of 5 scattered small attractions. Legend has it that the Yellow Emperor cast a tripod, practiced alchemy, and ascended to heaven at Dinghu Peak. The Yellow Emperor Shrine is still preserved in the scenic area, and a large-scale sacrificial ceremony is held every year. Walking on the stone paths in the mountains, looking up at Dinghu Peak piercing the sky, with the murmuring Hao River by your feet, and the wind rustling through the bamboo forest, it really feels like you have stumbled into a fantasy world🌿. You don't need to rush through the attractions in order when visiting Xiandu. These spots are worth exploring slowly: ⭐Dinghu Peak: The core landmark. If you don't want to hike, you can take the cable car to the top for a panoramic view of Xiandu's landscape. You can get free incense at the Yellow Emperor Shrine at the foot of the mountain. If you get tired, sit in the corridor for a while and watch the wind chimes on the eaves sway—it is very healing. ⭐Zhutan Mountain: The most popular old farmer leading an ox across the bridge photo spot is here. You don't need to rush to the paid performance. If you are lucky in the early morning or evening, you can often see local villagers crossing the bridge. With the reflection of Dinghu Peak in the water, every shot looks like a stunning, ink-wash-style photo. ⭐Niweng Cave: A niche spot with very few people. There are many cliff carvings from the Tang and Song dynasties on the rock walls. After visiting, you can walk along the Hao River greenway for half an hour to reach Little Red Cliff. The red Danxia cliffs stand against the water, and the trail is almost empty, making it very comfortable for a breezy walk. Here are a few slow travel tips for you⚠️: The scenic area pass is valid for two days, so you don't need to rush to finish it in one day. I recommend staying at a homestay in the scenic area; many offer views of Dinghu Peak right from your window, and you can avoid the crowds in the early morning to take photos. If you don't want to walk, you can take the scenic area sightseeing bus. There are stops at the entrance of every attraction, and it is very convenient to hail one. You must try the local Jinyun shaobing; the preserved vegetable and meat filling is baked until crispy. Pair it with a bowl of hot local Suo noodles for a home-cooked taste you can only find here. You don't need to specifically chase internet-famous spots, and you don't need to rush to finish all the attractions. Find a nice day to come here and wander for two days, look at the mountains and water, eat some hot farm-style food, and let your tired body and mind relax. That is the true meaning of visiting Xiandu. Jinyun Xiandu Niche Travel Style Check-in Spot

The Weaving Art Museum hidden in an ancient Songyang village | Weaving art in the mountains, a niche, healing experience — traveler post in Lishui

The Weaving Art Museum hidden in an ancient Songyang village | Weaving art in the mountains, a niche, healing experience

Many people come to Songyang just to visit the ancient villages, but they miss the treasure that is the "Weaving Art Museum" in Songzhuang Village. It's not one of those cold, pretentious galleries in big cities; instead, it blends local craftsmanship with modern art, quietly hidden among the mountains. It's incredibly photogenic! 📍Address: Songzhuang Village, Sandu Township, Songyang County, Lishui (the famous ancient village featured in National Geographic) ⏰Hours: Wed–Sun 9:30 AM–11:30 AM, 12:30 PM–6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM); closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Check for holiday notices. 🎫Admission: Free! No reservation required, just walk in. 🚗Transportation: Driving is highly recommended. Search for "Weaving Art Museum" in your navigation app; there is a free parking lot at the village entrance. If taking the high-speed train, get off at Songyang Station and take a taxi (about 40 minutes). The mountain roads have many curves, so drive slowly. ✅Itinerary First, explore the main building of the museum, then stroll through Songzhuang Village. The architecture itself is the biggest highlight. The facade features two-tone aluminum louvers that look like a giant piece of fabric from a distance. Light and shadow pass through the grilles onto the walls, making every photo look like a high-end editorial shot. The exhibits inside are unique. They aren't solitary works by masters, but collaborative pieces created by artists and local villagers. Intangible cultural heritage crafts like bamboo weaving, palm weaving, and She ethnic ribbons are turned into installation art. You can see bamboo baskets woven by villagers and creations made from bamboo leaves—authentic yet stunning. After visiting the museum, walk down to the popular stone arch bridge in Songzhuang Village. With the stream babbling and old wooden houses built against the mountain, take a casual walk through the village to soak in the atmosphere of an authentic ancient village. 📸Best photo spots 1. The museum facade: Capture the light and shadow lines when the sun hits at an angle. 2. The floor-to-ceiling windows in the exhibition hall: Frame the mountain scenery in your shot. 3. The path outside the museum: Get the architecture and the mountains in the same frame. 🍜Food and accommodation There are several homestays and farm-style restaurants in the village. I recommend trying the stewed free-range chicken, dried bamboo shoots, and farmhouse tofu. For a deeper experience, stay overnight; the village is less crowded in the early morning, and the atmosphere is incredible. ⚠️Tips 1. Don't come on Monday or Tuesday! It's closed, and many tourists have made this mistake. 2. There are many curves on the mountain road. Be careful when passing other cars, and slow down if the road is wet from rain. 3. The museum isn't large; 1 hour is enough to see everything. Combine it with a visit to Songzhuang Village for a perfect half-day trip. 4. The museum is quiet. Please don't use flash when taking photos and respect the exhibits. 💡A note from the blogger: If you're tired of crowded tourist traps and prefer quiet, artistic, and niche places, the Weaving Art Museum is truly worth a visit. Art doesn't just belong in city galleries; the weaving skills in the hands of villagers in the mountains are just as moving. When you come to Songyang, don't miss this piece of mountain aesthetics!

Explore the 200-meter underground river rafting — traveler post in Lishui

Explore the 200-meter underground river rafting

Enter a sci-fi secret realm beneath southern Zhejiang✨Suichang Geocenter World | 2-day 1-night weekend getaway plan A new choice for weekend trips in the Yangtze River Delta! Hidden in an abandoned fluorite mine in Suichang, Lishui, it's a fantastic underground space buried 200 meters deep. Underground river rafting + underground hot springs, the perfect combo to escape the city heat. A 2-day 1-night trip is just right for an immersive experience. Save this travel guide👇 🚙Travel options ▪️Self-driving (recommended) | About 3.5–5 hours from Shanghai or Hangzhou. Drive through the mountains and forests of southern Zhejiang, capture scenic views along the way, and enjoy total freedom ▪️Public transport | High-speed train directly to Suichang Station, fare ¥88, travel time about 3 hours. After exiting the station, it's a 50-minute taxi ride to the scenic area. We recommend carpooling with friends to split the fare 🎫Ticket tips Single ticket is ¥358. Scenic area open 9:00 AM–9:00 PM. We recommend purchasing a hotel package for a one-stop solution for accommodation + tickets, which offers much better value. 🗓️2-day 1-night relaxed itinerary Day 1 | Geocenter adventure, rafting, and a healing hot spring journey Check in in the morning; this hot spring hotel is very close to the scenic area, just a 5-minute walk away. Take the geocenter elevator to go 200 meters underground in just 15 seconds. The blue light tunnel creates an immersive atmosphere, perfect for sci-fi style photos. At noon, try the 858-meter-long space-time rafting. With a 50-meter drop, it's moderately exciting, not too scary. The mine maintains a constant temperature of 20°C, making it a comfortable summer escape. In the afternoon, soak in the natural hot springs hidden deep underground. There are 12 zodiac-themed pools, and the mist is enchanting. Your skin will feel smooth, and your fatigue will vanish. In the evening, stroll through the Geocenter Market and try local snacks. Then, take the 328-meter-long Space Shuttle cable car back to the surface, feeling like you're traveling through a starship. It's a unique experience. Day 2 | Enjoy the mountains and sleep in Wake up and continue soaking in the hotel's private hot spring. The terrace faces rolling green mountains, and the negative oxygen ion concentration is over 30,000—a true natural forest oxygen bar. For lunch, taste authentic Suichang farm-style food. The Jiaotan fish head is spicy and flavorful, and the intangible cultural heritage Suichang long zongzi is soft and fragrant—not to be missed. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along Xianxia Lake, or take the kids to the Red Ant Park. The pace is relaxed, and you won't feel tired on the way back. 🏨Accommodation | 2025 newly opened hot spring hotel ✔️5-minute walk to the Geocenter World scenic area ✔️All 66 rooms equipped with private hot springs ✔️24-hour soaking, no time restrictions ✔️Smart home devices throughout, some room types feature a starry sky ceiling Package benefits: 2 scenic area tickets + breakfast + afternoon tea. No price increase for weekend stays! 💡Travel tips 👗Attire: The mine floor is slippery, so non-slip shoes are a must. The scenic area provides free raincoats for rafting. Choose bright-colored swimwear for better photos. ⏰Time: Park closes at 7:00 PM. Rafting is busiest from 10:00 AM–12:00 PM, so try to visit during off-peak hours. 🌤Season: Summer is great for escaping the heat, and autumn/winter is perfect for the hot spring atmosphere. 🐱Friendly reminder: Pets are allowed. In the private terrace hot spring area, you can pet your cat while looking up at the starry sky—pure relaxation.

These 5 hidden gems are perfect choices! — traveler post in Lishui

These 5 hidden gems are perfect choices!

If you're tired of fighting crowds at popular spots during the National Day holiday and hate waiting in line for 2 hours just to take a 5-minute photo, save this list for "reverse travel" in the Yangtze River Delta! I've dug up 5 hidden treasure spots. No massive crowds, just incredible vibes in mountains, waters, and ancient villages. Every photo looks like a blockbuster, and you'll instantly feel that relaxed vacation mood. ✨ 🎋 Yixing, Jiangsu | Hide away in the bamboo sea and enjoy the slow pace of the Pottery Capital Yixing is perfect for clearing your mind! Vast, layered bamboo forests and incredibly fresh air. 🌿 You can visit pottery workshops to try your hand at clay, immersing yourself in pottery culture. Stroll through the bamboo forest trails and enjoy the mountain breeze. Skip the crowded tourist spots, book a mountain homestay, eat local farm-to-table food, and spend a quiet, comfortable holiday. 📸 Photo tips: Deep in the bamboo forest or the old pottery district for great traditional vibes. 🍂 Songyang, Zhejiang | A real-life Jiangnan ancient village It's not just hype—this is truly the last secret paradise of Jiangnan! Ancient yellow-mud villages are scattered across the mountains. 🏡 The golden earthen walls of Yangjiatang and the streams and stone bridges of Songzhuang Village are uncrowded, and most spots don't require tickets. Wander slowly through the old alleys, see the autumn harvest drying scenery, and spend the afternoon relaxing by the stream, far from the city noise. It's perfect for wearing light-colored clothes and taking photos at sunset—the lighting is absolutely stunning. 🏞️ Jixi, Anhui | A niche experience of Huizhou landscapes If you don't want to be crushed by crowds at Hongcun or Xidi, come to Jixi! The authentic charm of Huizhou is well-preserved here. White walls and black tiles in ancient villages, surrounded by green mountains, with Huizhou-style carvings everywhere. Wander the old alleys to experience Huizhou's history and culture. You can also go for light hikes in the surrounding mountains and try authentic Huizhou snacks. It's uncrowded and offers a great travel experience. 🌊 Ninghai, Zhejiang | A healing small city with both mountains and sea You can see the sea and explore ancient villages—unlock two types of scenery in one stop. 🌅 ✔ Xujiashan Stone Village: Old houses built entirely of stone, simple and primitive, perfect for traditional-style photos ✔ Qiantong Ancient Town: Avoid the main street crowds, duck into the alleys, and enjoy the mossy stone paths and old courtyards ✔ Eastern Zhejiang Grand Canyon: Clear streams, quiet forests, and very relaxing forest-style hiking You must try the seafood snacks—the razor clam stir-fried rice cakes and Ninghai soup dumplings are amazing! 🏮 Lanxi, Zhejiang | An old Jiangnan city full of life A low-key treasure of a small city, full of local life. You must visit Youbu Ancient Town; the morning market atmosphere is incredible, with old teahouses and ancient alleys full of authentic charm. 🎞️ It's not overly commercialized, prices are friendly, and it's perfect for a slow stroll while eating local snacks. Explore ancient architecture during the day and take a walk by the river in the evening. The pace is slow—perfect for a laid-back National Day trip. 💡 Tips 1. Most spots are best reached by car, as there is some distance between attractions, giving you more freedom 2. There is a large temperature difference between day and night in the mountains, so remember to bring a light jacket 3. It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance for the National Day holiday, and visiting off-peak will yield better photos

Songyang Ancient Villages: A 2-Day Slow Travel Guide — traveler post in Lishui

Songyang Ancient Villages: A 2-Day Slow Travel Guide

Zhejiang Songyang | Avoid the crowds, a 2-day, 1-night slow travel guide to ancient villages, personally tested tips Just got back from Songyang. No massive crowds, no sky-high prices. This was a hidden gem I discovered on this off-the-beaten-path trip. Many online guides are vague. I've compiled the real pitfalls and money-saving tips here—if you're planning to visit, just follow this guide! 📍 Attractions ✅ Yangjiatang Village (free) Known as the "Golden Potala Palace," it features layers of rammed-earth houses. ⏰ Best time: 5:30–6:30 PM. When the sunset hits the walls, the whole village glows gold—perfect for photos. Don't miss the "couple" camphor trees at the village entrance and the observation deck. ⚠️ There are no convenience stores in the village, so bring water before heading up the mountain. ✅ Chenjiapu Village (free) An ancient village on a cliff, home to the Librairie Avant-Garde bookstore. ⏰ 7–9 AM after the rain is the best time to catch the sea of clouds. The mist wrapping around the mountains creates an incredible atmosphere. No reservation needed for the bookstore. The floor-to-ceiling windows face the mountains—perfect for just sitting and relaxing. ⚠️ During holidays, you must transfer to a shuttle bus to get up the mountain. Don't try to drive up yourself. ✅ Songyang Old Street (free) A living old street district where locals still reside. With old-fashioned blacksmith shops and century-old noodle restaurants, it's perfect for a leisurely 2-hour stroll. 🍜 Must-eat food ▫️ Baixian Noodle Restaurant: Handmade "water-pulled" noodles with a simple, authentic broth. A bowl costs just over 10 yuan, and it's a local favorite. ▫️ Shanfen dumplings: Chewy and soft, filled with dried bamboo shoots and meat—a local mountain specialty. ▫️ Farmhouse chicken soup: Eat this at restaurants in the county town. It's fresh and not greasy. Don't order it at mountain homestays; it's much more expensive there. 💡 Money-saving tip: Prioritize eating back in Songyang county town, as prices at mountain homestays are generally higher. 🚗 Transportation Take the high-speed train to Songyang Station. It's about a 20-minute taxi ride from the station to the county town. The ancient villages are scattered in the mountains, about a 10-minute drive apart. 👉 Public transport: There are rural buses from the county town, but they run infrequently and waiting takes time. 👉 Recommended: Rent an e-scooter in the county town for 80 yuan/day, or carpool to and from the villages. ⚠️ The mountain roads have many curves and can cause motion sickness, so remember to bring motion sickness medicine! ⚠️ Personally tested pitfalls & money-saving tips 1. Don't try to visit too many ancient villages at once. Limit it to 2 per day; the mountain roads are tiring. 2. The villages have many stone steps, so wear non-slip flat shoes. Forget about high heels. 3. There's a large temperature difference between day and night in the mountains. Even in autumn, bring a light jacket. 4. There are free tea-tasting stalls in the villages that will try to sell you tea. If you don't want to buy, just politely decline. If you want local specialties, buy them at shops in the county town for better prices. 5. Most ancient villages are free. Don't trust scalpers on the side of the road charging "entry fees." 6. Mobile signal is weak in some mountain areas, so download offline maps in advance. The overall pace is very relaxed, perfect for those wanting to escape the city and unwind without rushing.

What people are saying about Lishui

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Xiandu Scenic Area

The service at the scenic area was excellent. There's a Jinyun Shaobing Museum where you can find delicious food at very reasonable prices. The 20-yuan shuttle bus is convenient for visiting various attractions. The scenic area is quite large and offers a 2-day pass, making it perfect for a leisurely day trip.

M16***78M16***78

YunHe Rice Terraces

The ticket price is too expensive; 50 yuan is the most it should be. The Jiuqu Yunhuan Scenic Area is a meticulously crafted terraced field for tourists; it's okay for taking photos. Qixingdun is best viewed from a distance. The Yunhe Terraces can't compare to the Yuanyang Terraces in Yunnan. Just take a casual look.

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Ancient Weir Home of Painting

Guyan Huaxiang Tourist Resort is a 4A-level tourist attraction worth visiting; the scenic area boasts beautiful mountains and clear waters, an elegant environment, and is full of the charm of a Jiangnan water town; the ticket price is reasonable.

M32***32M32***32

Yangjiatang Village

The village is small and quite rustic, with initial signs of commercialization. It's worth a visit for photos, especially at sunset when the scattered ancient villages are accompanied by wisps of smoke rising from their chimneys – a truly beautiful sight. A word of caution: the village's pebbles are difficult to walk on, so wear appropriate shoes. Also, there's a 500-meter-long winding mountain road in and out of the village with extremely high oncoming traffic, making it quite challenging to drive. Traveling during the off-season is strongly recommended.

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Deep World

Well, this place is okay for bringing kids. You can go rafting, there are hot springs, and you can collect rocks and minerals – it's quite fun. The 200-meter underground space, with all sorts of lights, makes for great photos. However, the price is a bit high and not very good value. You need to bring your own swimsuit for the hot springs.

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Chenjiapu Village

After visiting Yangjiatang Village, on the way back to the hotel, we made a special trip to Chenjiapu Village, known as "a utopia atop the clouds, an ancient village on a cliff." There's a Librairie Avant-Garde bookstore there, which is also quite nice.

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Heyang Ancient Dwellings

The scenic area was very quiet after the long holiday, perfect for photography enthusiasts. I took many photos I love. The villagers and staff were very welcoming and polite. What impressed me most was the village restrooms—they were incredibly clean, cleaner than any I've seen in major tourist attractions. A truly worthwhile trip; highly recommended.

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Songyang Old Street

Songyang Old Street, also known as Nanzhi Street, is located in Songyang County, Lishui City, Zhejiang Province. It is one of the oldest ancient streets in the area. It began in the Tang and Song Dynasties, flourished in the Yuan, Ming and Qing Dynasties, and still retains a large number of buildings from the Ming and Qing Dynasties. It is the longest county town old street in Zhejiang Province, with a core line length of 1.9 kilometers, a total planning area of ​​about 7.68 hectares, and a total length of the core pedestrian street of about 640 meters.

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Dinghu Peak

#Jinyun Xiandu Scenic Area Dinghu Peak rises abruptly from the ground like a pillar supporting the sky, shrouded in mist like a fairyland. Before Zhutan Mountain, an old farmer leads his ox across a stone bridge; every frame is a picturesque ink painting. Strolling through Niweng Cave and Xiao Chibi, the cliff carvings tell the story of a thousand years of cultural heritage. The Yellow Emperor's Temple is solemn and dignified, with the rising incense smoke evoking images of the Xuanyuan sacrificial ceremony. This place is imbued with spirit; every step reveals a new scene, washing away all worldly worries—truly a "fairyland"!

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Yunzhong Daji

The ancient Song Dynasty architecture scenic area, with its elegant and tranquil Shisi Temple and picturesque Xuehuaji Waterfall, is perfect for family trips. If driving, you can park next to the Lingyun Tingpu Pavilion at the entrance of a guesthouse in Xuexiang, enter Xuehuaji Waterfall after ticket inspection, descend 560 steps to the valley floor to view the waterfall, then ascend 560 steps back to the entrance to retrieve your car and head to Kuixing Tower. There is parking available downstairs, and it's a 1-minute walk to the Shisi Temple ticket gate. Finally, you can visit the free attractions Daji Yuyu, Jinshi Mansion, and Weiling Baodian.

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Lishui FAQ

How many days should I spend in Lishui?

Based on Trip.com user data, Recommended sightseeing time: 3–4 day(s), allowing you to cover the main attractions while enjoying shopping, dining, and other experiences.

What currency is used in Lishui?

The standard currency in Lishui is CNY

How do I exchange currency in Lishui?

Current exchange rate approx.: EUR ≈7.4CNY (actual exchange rates depend on the bank). Currency exchange tips:
1. Exchange currency at your local bank before departure, as rates are usually better than at the destination.
2. You can also withdraw cash from local ATMs.
3. Avoid exchanging currency at airports or hotels, as they offer the worst rates.

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