· CN

Yangzhou

Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China

Journey to Yangzhou: Where History Embraces the Modern World Step into a realm of canals, gardens, and ancient charm in Yangzhou, a city that whispers tales of emperors and merchants while embracing the vibrancy of moder…

#Yangzhou#Jiangsu#China#Historic city#Cultural heritage

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Stay & fly Things to do Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Yangzhou.

Top Hotels in Yangzhou

Top Flights to Yangzhou

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Yangzhou.

Tours

Exploring Ancient Slender West Lake

A picturesque park with a narrow lake winding through traditional Chinese gardens, ancient bridges, and pagodas.

Historical Tour of Daming Temple

Visit the ancient Daming Temple, known for its rich history, stunning gardens, and pagoda.

Shopping

Wenchang Pavilion Shopping Street

Explore a vibrant shopping street filled with local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional snacks.

Outdoor

Yangzhou Ancient Canal Tour

Take a boat tour through the ancient Grand Canal, surrounded by centuries-old architecture and quintessential Chinese landscapes.

Shugang Mountain Birdwatching

A perfect spot for birdwatching amidst the harmony of nature and traditional landscapes.

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Yangzhou.

Currency

¥ | CNY | Chinese Yuan

Population

4.5 million

Languages

Chinese, Jiangyang Mandarin (local dialect), Wu Chinese

Average weather

Yangzhou

Jan

7°0°

Feb

9°2°

Mar

14°6°

Apr

20°11°

May

25°16°

Jun

29°21°

Jul

32°25°

Aug

32°25°

Sep

28°20°

Oct

23°14°

Nov

17°8°

Dec

10°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Yangzhou.

What people love

Yangzhou, located in Jiangsu province, China, is a beautiful and historically rich city with plenty to offer for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Yangzhou include:

Scenic Beauty: Yangzhou is known for its picturesque landscapes, including the famous Slender West Lake. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake, walk along its winding paths, and admire the traditional Chinese architecture in the surrounding area.
Cultural Heritage: With a history dating back over 2,500 years, Yangzhou is home to many historical sites and cultural relics. Travelers can explore ancient temples, traditional gardens, and well-preserved historic streets to learn about the city's rich heritage.
Culinary Delights: Yangzhou is famous for its delicious local cuisine, including Huaiyang cuisine, one of the four major culinary traditions in China. Visitors can sample authentic dishes such as Yangzhou fried rice, steamed dumplings, and sweet snacks like sesame balls.
Traditional Arts and Crafts: Yangzhou is known for its traditional arts and crafts, such as silk embroidery, jade carving, and paper-cutting. Travelers can visit local workshops to see artisans at work and purchase unique souvenirs to take home.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Compared to larger cities like Shanghai and Beijing, Yangzhou offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. Travelers can stroll through tranquil gardens, visit tea houses, and enjoy the slower pace of life in this charming city.

Overall, traveling to Yangzhou can be a rewarding experience for those interested in exploring Chinese culture, history, and natural beauty.

Enjoy your trip to Yangzhou!

What to know

There are a few potential cons of traveling to Yangzhou, China, which may include:

Language barrier: English may not be widely spoken in Yangzhou, so communication could be challenging for travelers who do not speak Mandarin or other local dialects.
Pollution: Like many cities in China, Yangzhou may experience issues with air pollution, particularly during certain times of the year. This could affect air quality and visibility, potentially impacting travelers with respiratory issues.
Crowds and congestion: Yangzhou is a popular tourist destination, so certain attractions and areas may be crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. This could lead to longer wait times and difficulty navigating through busy streets.
Cultural differences: Travelers may experience cultural differences and customs that are unfamiliar to them, which could lead to misunderstandings or discomfort.
Limited tourist infrastructure: While Yangzhou has a rich history and cultural heritage, it may not have as developed tourist infrastructure compared to other popular Chinese cities like Beijing or Shanghai. This could impact the availability of amenities and services for travelers.

Overall, while Yangzhou offers a unique and authentic travel experience, visitors should be prepared for potential challenges such as language barriers, pollution, crowds, cultural differences, and limited tourist infrastructure. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to make the most of your trip to Yangzhou.

Yangzhou, located in Jiangsu Province, China, boasts a rich history that dates back over 2,400 years. Its strategic location along the Yangtze River and the Grand Canal has made it a significant city in terms of trade, culture, and politics throughout Chinese history.

Ancient and Imperial History

Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC): Yangzhou was part of the State of Wu. It was during this time that the area began to establish its significance.
Sui Dynasty (581-618 AD): Yangzhou gained prominence with the construction of the Grand Canal, which linked the city to Beijing and Hangzhou. This made Yangzhou a crucial hub for trade and transportation.
Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD): Yangzhou became one of China’s most prosperous cities due to its role in trade, particularly with foreign merchants. It was a cosmopolitan center known for its culture and wealth. The poet Li Bai and many other literati frequented Yangzhou.
Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD): The city continued to thrive as a trade center, and it was known for its production of salt, rice, and silk.

Yuan to Qing Dynasties

Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368 AD): Marco Polo visited Yangzhou during this period, and according to some accounts, he served as an official there, although this claim is debated by historians.
Ming and Qing Dynasties (1368-1912 AD): Yangzhou remained wealthy, particularly from the salt trade. The city became famous for its gardens and cultural institutions. During the Qing Dynasty, the city was a center of the Yangzhou School of Painting.

Modern History

Taiping Rebellion (1850-1864): The city was greatly affected by the Taiping Rebellion, which caused significant destruction and loss of life.
20th Century: In the Republican era and under Communist rule, Yangzhou underwent industrial development and urbanization. The city maintained its cultural heritage while modernizing.

Historical Figures

Marco Polo: Although his role in Yangzhou is debated, Marco Polo’s accounts brought attention to the city's significance in the West.
Li Bai (701-762 AD): The famous poet is associated with Yangzhou, which he celebrated in his poetry.

Important Landmarks

Slender West Lake (Shouxi Lake): A scenic area known for its beautiful landscapes, reminiscent of the West Lake in Hangzhou.
Daming Temple: A historic temple that has stood since the Southern Dynasties and is known for its architectural beauty and religious significance.
Yangzhou Museum: Offers insights into the rich history and culture of the area.
Ge Garden (Geyuan Garden): One of the most famous classical Chinese gardens in Yangzhou, known for its bamboo landscapes and rockeries.

Yangzhou's historical legacy is reflected in its blend of cultural heritage and modern developments, making it a fascinating city with deep historical roots in China's history.