Explore the cultural and natural beauty of Changzhou through the ages!

Changzhou, a city filled with awe-inspiring treasures, offers a profound cultural heritage intertwined with stunning natural landscapes, sure to leave a lasting impression. The journey begins in the Tianning District at the Hongmei Park on Yanling Middle Road, Changzhou's largest classical garden and former site of the Tianning Temple. After years of weathering and expansion, it has become a favorite spot for locals to relax and enjoy the scenery. When the plum blossoms are in full bloom, the Hongmei Pavilion is nothing short of poetic, and the Wenbi Tower, built during the Qi and Liang periods of the Southern Dynasties and one of Changzhou's oldest structures, stands majestically with its seven stories, offering a panoramic view of the city from its top. Next, visit the Baolin Zen Temple at 98 Hongxi Road in the Tianning District. This royal monastery, founded in 527 AD, may be located on the outskirts of the city, but its unique golden pineapple shape and the ancient and solemn architectural complex are captivating, with each brick and tile bearing the weight of history. Moreover, the Tianning Zen Temple and its Pagoda at 636 Yanling Middle Road in the Tianning District are undoubtedly landmarks of Changzhou. The temple has stood there since the Tang Dynasty's Zhenguan era and is known as the 'Number One Jungle in the Southeast.' The Tianning Pagoda ingeniously integrates the ancient styles of the Tang and Song dynasties, with its 14 stories and alternating design of light and dark layers. The top of the pagoda, with the highest bell and the glittering glazed Buddha statues, is truly breathtaking. For a taste of local culture, take a stroll to Qingguo Alley at 100 Heping North Road in Tianning Street. This area embodies the rich local culture and artistic atmosphere of Changzhou, with old houses and new blocks reflecting each other. It's a perfect place to appreciate historical relics or capture modern artistic elements. Don't forget to spend a quiet afternoon at the drip drop coffee shop, admiring the magnificent panorama of the Tianning Zen Temple from its rooftop. Also, don't miss the Changzhou Yinsi Noodle Shop next to the Tianning Zen Temple, where for just 4.5 yuan, you can savor the delicate texture and rich flavor of the authentic Yinsi noodles. As for the Cultural Square, besides the dazzling modern malls, it's also a great spot for capturing urban landscapes. Although the specifics of the commercial content are not detailed, its presence undoubtedly adds more vitality and color to the journey.