Stop playing blindly! The ultimate two-day, one-night guide to Wuzhen

Hey everyone, the mini-holiday is coming up! Wuzhen is truly a perfect getaway destination, with its small bridges, flowing water, white walls, and black tiles—every corner exudes the charm of a Jiangnan water town. After returning from Wuzhen, I’ve put together this super practical two-day, one-night travel guide for you. Save it now! 🚗 Transportation Guide • High-speed rail: First, take the train to Tongxiang Station. After arriving, you can take the K282 bus directly to Wuzhen, which takes about 50 minutes. For a quicker and more convenient option, a taxi ride takes around 30 minutes. • Self-driving: Navigate directly to the Wuzhen Scenic Area parking lot. 🏠 Accommodation Recommendations • Inside Xizha Scenic Area: I recommend the Waterside Resort Hotel. The environment is fantastic—you can open your window to the sound of flowing water and enjoy various conveniences like free shuttle rides, unlimited entry with facial recognition, and luggage delivery. However, the prices are relatively higher. • Outside Xizha Scenic Area: The Wuzhen Midnight Hotel is a great choice, offering affordable prices and a short 10-minute walk to the scenic area. 🍱 Must-Try Foods • Dingsheng Cake: Soft and chewy with a light osmanthus fragrance and sweet red bean paste filling. Best enjoyed hot. • Radish Cake: Crispy on the outside with delicious shredded radish inside—cheap and tasty. The stalls run by elderly ladies in Nanzhai offer even better deals. • Braised Lamb Noodles: A Wuzhen specialty. The lamb is tender and flavorful, the broth is rich, and the noodles are springy—so much meat it’s almost overflowing! • Wuzhen Yumei Restaurant: A super popular local spot. Must-try dishes include the Clearwater Fish and Wuzhen Pot—absolutely satisfying. 📅 Itinerary • Day 1: Morning: Enter the scenic area from the Xizha Visitor Center. First, visit the Caomu Bense Dye Workshop to see the beautiful indigo-dyed cloth fluttering in the wind—you can even try making some yourself. Then, head to the Water Market to experience the lively morning market and grab some Dingsheng Cake or small wontons for breakfast. Noon: Have lunch at a restaurant in the scenic area—I recommend the Scholar’s Lamb Noodles. Afternoon: Visit Lingshui Residence to admire the garden scenery and learn about famous figures like Mao Dun and Wang Huiwu. Next, stop by Zhaoming Academy to read or take photos in its ancient-style setting—the ambiance is perfect. Evening: Take a night boat ride on a rowing boat in Xizha. The lanterns at the stern cast a red glow on the water, and the boatwoman might even sing a folk tune. Afterward, catch a free screening of *Time to Remember* at the open-air cinema (with free popcorn!) or enjoy a drink at Bar Street—try the "Sanbai Mojito" at the Time to Remember Bar. • Day 2: Morning: Get up early and head to Dongzha, where the scenery is beautiful and the crowds are thinner. First, watch the Fist Boat performance to experience traditional martial arts. Then, visit Mao Dun’s Former Residence to learn about the literary giant’s upbringing. Late Morning: Visit Hongyuan Tai Dye Workshop to experience the unique charm of indigo-dyed cloth again—you can even dress in Hanfu for photos, which turn out amazing. Next, stroll through Qinggeng Yudu to soak in the tranquil rural scenery. Noon: Have lunch near Dongzha and try local dishes like poached chicken and zongzi-wrapped pork. Afternoon: Opt for a hand-rowed boat ride to leisurely enjoy Dongzha’s scenery before preparing to head back. 📸 Photography Tips • Outfits: Wear light-colored traditional or Republic-era-style clothing—it pairs perfectly with Wuzhen’s vibe and guarantees great photos. • Photo Spots: Xizha’s Tongji Bridge and Dragon-Shaped Field (especially stunning during the March-April rapeseed flower season), Dongzha’s Fengyuan Twin Bridges, and the early morning laundry docks are all fantastic locations. • Best Time: Early morning and dusk offer soft lighting, making your photos even more atmospheric. ❗ Important Notes • Follow the boatman’s instructions during rowing boat rides for safety. Folks, follow this guide, and you’re guaranteed to deeply experience Wuzhen’s beauty. Start planning your trip now!