First-Time Visitor's Guide to Qingjiangpu District, Huaian: A Xiaohongshu-Style Itinerary
🌟 Morning: Explore the Historic Charm
👣 Start Your Journey at Ciyun Temple
Kick off your adventure in Qingjiangpu District at the serene Ciyun Temple. Nestled in the heart of the city, this historic temple offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. Take a moment to soak in the tranquility and the architectural beauty of this sacred site.
🚶♀️ Stroll Down Dong and Xi Dajie
From Ciyun Temple, head west to Dong Dajie (East Street) and Xi Dajie (West Street), two iconic commercial streets that have witnessed the city's evolution. While Dong Dajie is now dominated by modern shops selling small commodities, Xi Dajie retains a more laid-back charm, perfect for a leisurely stroll under the canopy of trees.
🍜 Taste Local Delicacies
Make sure to stop by some must-try eateries along the way:
- Kuiyuan Noodles: Indulge in their hearty beef noodles.
- Jiawu Stinky Tofu: Sample the crispy stinky tofu and other local snacks.
- Babaozhou: Enjoy affordable and delicious eight-treasure porridge and chicken nuggets.
🌳 Afternoon: Immerse in Nature and Culture
🌳 Visit Qingyan Garden
Continue your walk towards Qingyan Garden, a national AAA-level tourist attraction and a prime example of classical gardens in northern Jiangsu. Wander through its meticulously landscaped grounds and appreciate the harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
📚 Relax at Wenjin Study
Next, pop into Wenjin Study, a former library turned cultural space. Take a break, grab a book, and soak in the ambiance of this historic site. Nearby, you'll also find Tiexia Xuan Ancient Flowerpot Museum, showcasing a collection of exquisite flowerpots from various dynasties.
🍽️ Evening: Savor Food and Nightlife
🍲 Dine at Local Favorites
As the sun sets, head to Nanmen Xiaojie (South Gate Alley), a bustling food street in the old town of Qingjiangpu. Here, you'll find an array of delicious local dishes, including:
- Chenwu Crab Roe Soup Buns: Savor the rich flavor of these signature buns.
- Puyuan Restaurant: Enjoy local specialties like蒲菜 meatballs and flatbridge tofu.
- Sun's Lobster: Treat yourself to some delicious lobster.
🌃 Take a Night Stroll
End your day with a leisurely night stroll along the Liheyun River. The illuminated riverfront offers a romantic and serene atmosphere, perfect for wrapping up a memorable day in Qingjiangpu.
🏨 Where to Stay
For accommodation, consider staying at one of the highly-rated hotels in Qingjiangpu District, such as Yishang Hotel, Huai'an Wyndham Garden Hotel, or Huai'an Kaiyuan Mingdu Hotel, all of which offer modern amenities and convenient access to the city's attractions.
🚌 Getting Around
Getting around Qingjiangpu District is easy with its well-connected public transport system. Major bus routes, including No. 2, No. 7, No. 301, and No. 86, serve various points of interest in the district.
Enjoy your first visit to Qingjiangpu District, Huaian! Whether you're a history enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone who loves exploring new places, this itinerary promises an unforgettable experience. 📸✨
