Authentic Yangzhou Tour: Culture, Scenery & Heritage in One Day

Tour Itinerary

Upon your arrival at the high-speed train station, your guide will be waiting for you at the exit, holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign. They will then escort you as you explore the top attractions of Yangzhou.

Your first stop is Slender West Lake, a true jewel of Yangzhou and one of China’s most picturesque and historically significant lakes. Part of the Jinghang Grand Canal UNESCO World Heritage Site, the lake is known for its long, winding shape, which embodies the classic Chinese aesthetic of tranquility and harmony with nature. Surrounded by lush greenery and calm waters, Slender West Lake offers a peaceful escape into history, reflecting Yangzhou’s rich cultural and economic legacy, especially tied to the city’s flourishing salt trade. As you stroll along the scenic paths that meander through the area, you’ll encounter landmark sites such as the elegant White Pagoda, the serene Fishing Platform, and the Small Golden Hill, each offering a glimpse into the past and stunning views of the lake. On a clear day, you’ll have the opportunity to take a relaxing boat ride across the lake, providing a sweeping view of the landscape, enhancing your connection to both the natural beauty and the cultural essence of this remarkable location. Your guide will provide insightful commentary along the way, sharing fascinating stories and history to enrich your experience.

Next, your journey takes you to the Daming Temple, a revered Buddhist site with a history dating back to the 5th century, making it one of the oldest and most important spiritual landmarks in the region. The temple complex exudes tranquility, offering a serene environment where history and spirituality intertwine. As you wander through the temple, you’ll encounter beautifully preserved halls, exquisite statues, and intricately designed pavilions that reflect the grandeur of ancient Buddhist architecture and artistry. The peaceful ambiance is enriched by the soft chants of monks performing their daily rituals, a soothing reminder of the temple's enduring spiritual practices. For an added experience, climb the Chiling Pagoda for a panoramic view of the temple grounds and a sweeping vista of the surrounding landscape, including the picturesque Slender West Lake. Throughout your visit, your guide will share fascinating stories and insights about the temple’s rich cultural and religious heritage, helping you connect with the deeper significance of this sacred place.

Savor a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll experience the authentic tastes of Yangzhou cuisine, celebrated for its delicate flavors and refined cooking techniques. Known for its emphasis on freshness, color, and harmony of flavors, Yangzhou’s culinary offerings are a feast for the senses. A must-try is the iconic Yangzhou fried rice, a fragrant blend of rice, shrimp, ham, and vegetables, often regarded as a signature dish. You’ll also enjoy the renowned Yangzhou-style soup dumplings, each bursting with savory broth and tender fillings. Don't miss the famed Yangzhou saltwater duck, a dish perfected through generations, reflecting the city’s deep-rooted salt-producing heritage. As you indulge in these local delicacies, your guide will share intriguing stories about the region's food culture, and you might even have the chance to explore a local market or shop to discover the fresh ingredients that make these dishes so special. This lunch is a perfect way to immerse yourself in Yangzhou’s rich culinary tradition.

Next, you’ll visit Ge Garden, one of the most famous classical gardens in Yangzhou, located not far from the Daming Temple. Ge Garden offers a beautiful and tranquil retreat, where the harmony between nature and design creates a captivating atmosphere. Known for its exquisite blend of architecture, plants, and water features, Ge Garden is a perfect example of traditional Chinese garden design. As you wander through the garden, you’ll discover a variety of pavilions, winding paths, rockeries, and ponds, each carefully arranged to evoke a sense of serenity and balance. The garden’s bamboo garden, in particular, is a highlight, offering a peaceful environment where you can admire the interplay between the delicate plants and the surrounding landscape. Throughout your visit, your guide will share the fascinating history of the garden, explaining its significance in Yangzhou’s cultural heritage and its role in the development of classical Chinese garden design. With its beauty and historical importance, Ge Garden provides a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural richness of this ancient city.

Next, you’ll explore Dongguan Street, one of Yangzhou’s most iconic and vibrant historic streets, offering a vivid glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage and ancient prosperity. As you stroll along its stone-paved path, you’ll be surrounded by traditional Jiangnan-style architecture with white walls and grey tiles, while immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere created by local shops, teahouses, and street vendors. The street is famed for its variety of local snacks like sesame cakes and steamed buns, as well as handcrafted items such as silk embroidery and clay figurines. Once a bustling hub for salt merchants and scholars, Dongguan Street played a significant role in Yangzhou’s cultural and economic history. Your guide will share fascinating stories about its past and the legacy left behind by generations of artisans and merchants. Along the way, you’ll also encounter small temples, ancestral halls, and hidden museums, making this stroll a multi-sensory journey into the heart of old Yangzhou.

After the tour end, drive you back to the train station.

Price Per Person in US Dollars