Reasons why you should visit Yangzhou

Charming folk culture

Historically one of the wealthiest cities in China, Yangzhou is a prosperous region and is rich in culture. It is home to a variety of folk arts listed as national intangible cultural heritages, such as its flat engraving typography, Yangzhou opera, Yangzhou Tanci (storytelling to the accompaniment of stringed instruments in the Yangzhou dialect), paper cutting, lacquer wares and jade wares.

Authentic Yangzhou Tanci performances present an appealing aesthetic in Yangzhou. [Photo/Yangzhou.gov.cn] 

Historic temple

First built during the Daming reign (457-464) of the Southern Dynasty (420-589), Daming Temple is a cultural treasure of the nation for its religious buildings, cultural relics and beautiful gardens. A famous Tang-dynasty monk named Jianzhen (688-763) set up the Toshodaiji Temple in Nara, Japan in 759, and was the abbot of Daming Temple before that. The temple has a Jianzhen Monk Memorial Hall in memory of his contributions to China-Japan relations.

Ancient lanes

With winding lanes stretching 1,122 meters, Dongguan Street acts as a window into ancient China’s past. Its well-preserved buildings, featured shops and traditional restaurants make it an historic arcade of arts, crafts and local snacks. Located at the east of the Grand Canal, which runs through the city, Dongguan Street was once the busiest street in Yangzhou.