Exploring Chizhou! Unlock the Beauty and Comfort of This Southern Anhui Gem!

📍Anhui·Chizhou, also known as Guichi and Qiupu. This small city hidden in southern Anhui is like an uncut jade - low-key yet radiating a unique charm, truly an off-the-beaten-path treasure. It offers just the right amount of modern convenience while exuding a relaxing atmosphere that soothes both body and mind. From the city center to Guniujiang in Shitai County, the crystal-clear "glass water" shimmers like emerald, with every frame looking like a movie screenshot. Each casual photo turns out stunning, no wonder I can't help planning a second summer visit! Transportation Guide 🚄 Outbound: Departing from Shanghai Hongqiao Station at 9:10, heading south by high-speed rail, you'll arrive at Chizhou Station by 12:39, with picturesque scenery along the way keeping your excitement levels high. 🚄 Return: Departing from Chizhou Station at 16:40, you'll be back at bustling Shanghai Hongqiao Station by 20:20, enjoying a comfortable and convenient high-speed rail journey with seamless connections. Accommodation Recommendation 🏨 Atour Hotel on Qishan Avenue: Excellent location, just steps away from the high-speed rail station, making it an ideal base for your Chizhou adventure. With this hotel as your center, it's convenient to visit surrounding attractions or explore the vibrant city life, making your journey efficient and worry-free. 3-Day 2-Night In-depth Travel Guide Day One: Encounter the Natural Wonders of Guniujiang in Shitai and Folk Customs of Nuoxian Town After arriving in Chizhou and checking into your hotel, head straight to Guniujiang in Shitai. It's recommended to book a rideshare in advance or use ride-hailing apps (like DiDi carpool), costing about 50 yuan. The highway trip takes just 1 hour to reach this natural paradise. Upon arrival at the scenic area, stroll toward Jiulong Pool, where flowing streams and lush trees create a natural oxygen bar. Continue along the main mountain path to reach the magnificent Four-Tier Waterfall and experience its powerful cascading waters. Afterward, return to Yanjia Village, where traditional Hui-style architecture is preserved, allowing you to immerse yourself in local traditional customs. After sightseeing, take a taxi to Nuoxian Town (pronounced "nuó") for dinner. The town is filled with delicious food and various specialty snacks to satisfy your appetite. Even more exciting, you can enjoy Guichi's unique Nuo Opera performances here - ancient theatrical art that uniquely interprets local history and culture, taking you through time to experience the charm of intangible cultural heritage. ⚠️ Friendly tip: Don't miss Guniujiang Scenic Area! If you plan to hike, allow about 3 hours; if you just want to enjoy the water and scenery, 1+ hour is enough. The water is crystal clear with a charming emerald hue - every photo turns out beautiful, so remember to bring your camera and good mood! Day Two: Climb Mount Jiuhua, Experience Zen, and Appreciate the Majesty of Dayuan Cultural Park At 8 AM, head to the high-speed rail station exit to purchase a combined bus ticket to Mount Jiuhua. The recommended 8:45 bus will take you smoothly to the Mount Jiuhua Visitor Center. Upon arrival, head straight to the Tiantai Scenic Area to begin your climb. From Tiantai Peak, enjoy panoramic views of endless mountains and swirling mists - the magnificent scenery refreshes your spirit and makes all fatigue disappear. After descending, visit the bustling Jiuhua Street with its many shops and lively atmosphere. Find a nice restaurant for lunch to replenish your energy. Afterward, you can either reverently visit some of the main temples to experience the serenity and solemnity of this Buddhist sacred site, or head directly to Dayuan Cultural Park to admire the 99-meter-tall Ksitigarbha statue. This majestic sculpture stands solemn under blue skies and white clouds, inspiring awe. The park also features rich cultural exhibitions and landscapes worth exploring at a leisurely pace. 🥃 Mount Jiuhua Food Recommendation: Strongly recommend the "Chef Down the Mountain" restaurant, located right next to Dayuan Cultural Park. Must-try signature dishes include stinky mandarin fish, with its unique fermented aroma perfectly blending with tender fish; stone ear mushroom with eggs, refreshing and nutritious; bamboo shoot stir-fried with meat, featuring chewy bamboo shoots and fragrant meat; and flavorful chicken soup made with fresh ingredients. Don't miss their distinctive desserts either! Day Three: Stroll Through Xinghua Village and Enjoy Peaceful Moments at Lake Pingtian In the morning, visit Xinghua Village, where flowers bloom in profusion - apricot blossoms, peach blossoms, and more create a dreamy pink and white landscape. Walk along the paths, appreciate the rural scenery of the ancient village, and feel the poetic atmosphere described by Du Mu in "The shepherd boy points to Xinghua Village in the distance." Every casual photo captures the romance of spring. In the afternoon, head to Lake Pingtian. This natural "urban lung" is perfect for cycling around on shared bikes, feeling the breeze while admiring the sparkling water and distant blue mountains, enjoying a leisurely slow-paced experience. Alternatively, find a grassy spot by the lake to sit, clear your mind, and quietly appreciate nature's beauty. If time permits, you might also visit Mount Jiuhua's Tianchi, which offers different mountain and water landscapes and recreational activities worth exploring. After finishing your tour, return to the hotel to pack your luggage and begin your journey home. Carry the beautiful memories of Chizhou's scenery and food back to Shanghai, treasuring the unique charm of this southern Anhui city in your heart. Come to Chizhou and embark on a soul-healing journey!