Things To Do
in Yangzhou
Yangzhou, in Jiangsu Province, sits along historic waterways and the Grand Canal, famed for its refined gardens, teahouse culture, and river life. The city preserves centuries of poetry, architecture, and canal-side charm across elegant lanes and harbor towns. Highlights include the Ge Garden, Slender West Lake, and a tranquil pace that invites long walks and lingering meals.
Today, Yangzhou blends classic Jiangsu elegance with modern cafés, boutique shops, and a welcoming local scene.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Ge Garden, a classical Chinese garden filled with rockeries, ponds, and lush greenery. Spend some time wandering through the intricate pathways and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. Don't forget to take plenty of photos of the picturesque landscapes and traditional architecture.
After a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, head to the Yangzhou Museum to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture. Here, you can explore various artifacts, including ancient pottery and textiles that showcase Yangzhou's artistic heritage. Conclude your afternoon with a stroll along the Slender West Lake, taking in the serene beauty of the water and the surrounding willow trees.
As the sun sets, find a local eatery that specializes in Yangzhou fried rice, a dish the city is famous for. Enjoy your dinner while taking in the lively atmosphere of the bustling streets. After your meal, take a gentle walk along the lake, where you can admire the illuminated bridges and pagodas reflecting in the water.
Begin your day early at the Yangzhou Traditional Market, where vendors offer fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade crafts. Engage with the local sellers to learn about their products and sample some traditional breakfast items like steamed buns and soy milk. The vibrant atmosphere will give you a true sense of daily life in Yangzhou.
After exploring the market, spend your afternoon at the Daming Temple, a serene spot that boasts beautiful architecture and rich Buddhist culture. Climb to the top of the pagoda for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. Take some time to meditate in the peaceful gardens, reflecting on the spiritual ambiance.
As night falls, head to the Yangzhou night market for dinner, where you can savor a variety of street food options. From dumplings to skewers, the market is a feast for the senses with the sound of sizzling food and the aroma of spices. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife, interacting with locals and fellow travelers as you stroll through the colorful stalls.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🚶♂️One-way local transport | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨3-star hotel per night | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 📱Local SIM/data plan | $5-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and serene gardens
- Delicious, refined Jiangsu cuisine with many vegetarian options
- Less nightlife compared to larger cities
- Can be crowded around major sights during holidays
- "Nǐ hǎo" - Hello
- "Xièxiè" - Thank you
- "Bù hǎo yìsi" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Qǐngwèn" - May I ask...
- "Wǒ huì shuō yìdiǎn Zhōngwén" - I speak a little Chinese
- "Zhège duōshǎo qián?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Yangzhou
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic water vistas with willow-lined quays, teahouses, and pagodas—perfect for sunrise and evening reflections.
A classical Jiangsu garden with intricately arranged rocks, winding paths, and tranquil pavilions ideal for close-up nature shots.
Ancient temple architecture along the canal, offering dramatic silhouettes at dusk and atmospheric interiors.
Historic storefronts, stone bridges, and lantern-lit alleys—great for candid street photography and city textures.
Food in Yangzhou
Yangzhou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant, colorfully studded rice with diced ham, shrimp, peas, and carrot—often served as a signature representative dish.
Must-Try!
Crisp white fish fillets in a glossy, tangy-sweet sauce—bright and balanced, a Jiangsu classic.
Rich, slow-cooked pork belly in a soy-sugar sauce, delivering a deeply savory-sweet depth.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively stretch where you can sample street bites, sweet pastries, and local snacks after exploring the old town.
Food carts offering quick bites, dumplings, and refreshing teas with views of the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting with a nod or smile; address people by titles and avoid loud public debates in streets.
Stand in lines patiently and avoid pushing; give others space in crowded markets and on public transport.
Use chopsticks properly, wait for others to be served before starting, and show appreciation by saying thank you (xièxiè).
Safety
Tipping in Yangzhou
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most Chinese restaurants; a small tip may be given at Western-style or tourist-oriented spots if service is exceptional. In general, check if a service charge is included.
Most places accept mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay). Cash is widely accepted, and some hotels or higher-end venues may take UnionPay or foreign cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers; carry a light layer and enjoy gardens in full bloom.
Hot and humid; plan outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon and stay hydrated.
Comfortable temperatures and clear skies; ideal for long walks along the canals and gardens.
Cool to cold with occasional winds from the river; layering is key and indoor tea houses are cozy refuges.
Yangzhou at Night
Hiking in Yangzhou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle, scenic walking routes through parkland and along water edges; suitable for easy day hikes and photography.
Nature trails in a protected reserve offering birdwatching and quiet woodland paths within a few hours’ drive.
Lakeside trails with open water views and marsh habitats, ideal for a relaxed day hike outside the city.
Airports
How to reach Yangzhou by plane.
Primary international gateway for the region; about 2-3 hours by high-speed rail or road to Yangzhou.
Closer to Yangzhou, with domestic routes and limited international flights; convenient for regional travel.
Major international hub; reachable by high-speed train connections within a few hours, good for long-haul flights.
Secondary Shanghai hub with domestic and some international flights; easy access via train and highway connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Growing middle-class population with renewed interest in cultural and dining experiences.
Several universities and cultural institutes contribute to a youthful, educated demographic.
International and domestic visitors drawn to gardens, canals, and historic streets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in parks and clubs; many locals play socially in the mornings and evenings.
Common in community centers and schools; casual courts available for visitors in public spaces.
Morning practice in parks like He Garden and along riverfront paths.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yangzhou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for Buddhist vegetarian restaurants, clearly labeled sù dishes; ask for no meat or seafood, and request oil-free or lighter preparations when possible.