Gaoyou, a county-level city of Yangzhou, gained its prominence on the 2024 tourist destination recommendation list unveiled at the second China Tourism Industry Development Conference and Cultural and Tourism Resources Matchmaking Conference, which kicked off on Oct 19 in Beijing.
Here are some scenic areas in Gaoyou that are worth a visit.
Gaoyou Yucheng Postal Stop
Built in 1375, the eighth year under the reign of Emperor Hongwu of the Ming Dynasty (r. 1368-1398), the Gaoyou Yucheng Postal Stop along the Grand Canal is among the most well-preserved ancient post buildings in China.
Today, with an enchanting blend of AR technology and live performances, tourists have the chance to step into the shoes of postmen and experience the vibrant hustle and bustle of an ancient post station.
Visitors can also engage in activities to experience intangible cultural heritage craftsmanships, such as Gaoyou duck eggs pickling and Jieshou dried bean curd making.
Gaoyou Yucheng Postal Stop. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
Qingshui Pond
Qingshui Pond is a beautiful natural sanctuary, showcasing lush forests and a rich variety of aquatic plants. Fish swim gracefully in the shallow waters, creating a serene atmosphere that invites visitors to unwind and connect with nature.
This enchanting tourist attraction harbors a dinosaur park where tourists can embark on an adventure to explore the wild and primitive world of the Jurassic era.
A family pose at the dinosaur park in the Qingshui Pond. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
Wangs' Memorial Hall
Tucked in the southwest of Gaoyou, Wangs' Memorial Hall is the former residence of Wang Niansun and Wang Yinzhi, father and son, both renowned as masters of Chinese exegesis during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).
The memorial hall features a Chinese culture lecture room, historical archives displays, a 24-hour parent-child book bar, a 24-hour tea bar, as well as cultural and artistic creation space.
Wenyoutai
Wenyoutai was initially known as Taishan Temple and then transformed into a literary iconic place after the esteemed Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127) poet Su Shi (1037-1101), accompanied by his friends Qin Guan (1049-1100), Sun Jue (1028-1090) and Wang Gong (1048-1117), ascended here to compose poems during his visit to Gaoyou.
Statue of Qin Guan at Wenyoutai. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]