Autumn in Yao Lake Town, Jiangnan: kiln fire + flying birds + fireworks, instantly a fan after visiting

I used to think Anhui South had perfected the beauty of Jiangnan water towns, until this autumn when I ventured into Yixing Yao Lake Town and discovered—the poetic charm of autumn Jiangnan is hidden in this town where kiln fire and autumn woods intertwine! There’s no cold black-and-white ink wash, but a vibrant oil painting of redwoods and ginkgo trees everywhere. Morning mist wraps the kiln fragrance, twilight dyes the leaves, and after visiting, I was instantly captivated~ Sharing my genuine check-in experience, packed with practical tips. Whether it’s a family trip, a romantic date, or a friends’ outing, you’ll have an amazing time! 📍 Location: Yixing Yao Lake Town 🚗 Transportation tested (worry-free, no detours): A 1.5-hour drive from Hangzhou, the road is smooth and the scenery gets more beautiful along the way; or take the high-speed train to Yixing Station, then a 30-minute taxi ride costing about 50 RMB, dropping you right at the scenic area entrance—super convenient with no extra walking. 🚶‍♀️ My real travel experience (no disappointments at any spot): 1️⃣ Bird Rendezvous: This was my most surprising stop! Sitting quietly on the steps, watching white storks glide over the lake, white-tailed sea eagles soar, and red-backed buzzards streak across the sky. The sensation of wings cutting through the air felt like watching a natural “sky dance.” Without cages, the birds’ free flight instantly healed me with the power of life, even the kids were glued to the scene~ 2️⃣ Little Train in the Clouds: A must for the lazy! If you don’t want to walk, riding the little train around the town is so comfortable~ Slowly weaving through autumn woods, redwoods and yellow ginkgo trees flash past the window, the air filled with the fresh scent of grass and kiln earth. You can see all the autumn scenery without walking. The train seats are comfy, and it stops at several scenic spots where you can hop off anytime to take photos—flexible and relaxing~ 3️⃣ Dragon Kiln Street: A paradise for kiln culture lovers! The whole street smells faintly of pottery clay. At the Dragon Kiln market, I bought a handmade ceramic jar with amazing texture; the owner said all are crafted by local artisans. The dragon kiln firing show is a must-see—flames illuminating the ancient kiln and watching the workers busy made me instantly understand the depth of Yixing clay culture. The intangible cultural heritage fire pot and fire skirt dance performances are atmospheric, and during the tea contest, you can taste local tea for free. I recommend checking the showtimes on the official scenic area WeChat in advance so you don’t miss out~ The Song kiln exhibition hall and pottery museum hold many old artifacts, and a slow stroll there teaches you a lot about kiln culture. 4️⃣ Dragon Soaring Water Show Fireworks: The grand finale at night is truly spectacular! Water and fire dance together with dazzling fireworks reflecting on Yao Lake’s surface. When the music starts, it feels like stepping into a real-life “heavenly palace.” The moment the fire pillars shoot up and fireworks bloom, the crowd gasps in awe. Photos can’t capture the shock—you have to see it with your own eyes~ I suggest finding a good spot early; the lakeside view is best. 5️⃣ Freedom Valley + Blue Crystal Creek: When tired, rest on the big lawn in Freedom Valley! Spread a picnic mat, camp out, sunbathe, or lie on the grass watching the sky—super relaxing~ Walk deeper to find Blue Crystal Creek, where “blue gems” scatter in the stream. With flower boats and hot air balloon decorations nearby, it feels like entering a fairy tale. Wear light-colored clothes for photos; the original shots come out stunning, and every snap is wallpaper-worthy~ ✨ My real little tips: Best time to visit: Late October to mid-November, when redwoods and ginkgo are fully golden, autumn scenery is richest, and photos come out best; Dress suggestion: Wear light or earth tones to harmonize with the autumn woods and Blue Crystal Creek, making photos more atmospheric; Showtimes: For intangible heritage performances, dragon kiln firing, and the evening water show fireworks on Dragon Kiln Street, check the scenic area’s official WeChat in advance to avoid missing out; Dining: The town has many snack shops. I recommend trying the Kiln Worker’s Feast—local specialty dishes that are authentic and reasonably priced. This trip to Yao Lake Town offers the brilliance of autumn woods, the healing power of nature, the depth of kiln culture, and the shock of light and shadow. It’s truly an underrated Jiangnan hidden gem~ No crowds, just immersive poetic autumn Jiangnan vibes. I sincerely recommend it to friends looking for off-the-beaten-path travel destinations. Come here for a date with kiln fire and autumn light~