Amazing Jinhua—Hengdian—Xianhua Mountain

Explore the Wonders of Jinhua: Unlock the Treasures of Central Zhejiang Itinerary Overview Jinhua is located in central Zhejiang and boasts a rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and unique cultural attractions. We recommend spending 4–5 days here to fully experience the charm of this city. Must-See Attractions Jinhua Shuanglong Cave: This national key scenic spot is famous for its magical cave landscapes. The cave within a cave offers a unique and exciting boat-ride experience. There is a noticeable temperature difference between the inner and outer caves, making it a cool escape in the summer. The surrounding mountains are lush and green, and the air is fresh. Strolling along the mountain trails, you'll feel like you're in a wonderland, surrounded by the wonders of nature. Hengdian World Studios: The world's largest film and television shooting base, where you can "travel through thousands of years in a day and witness history through drama." The Ming and Qing Palace is magnificent and grand, replicating the style of the Forbidden City, where you can watch traditional costume dramas. The Qin Palace is majestic and imposing, with its upturned eaves and brackets showcasing the ancient charm of the Qin and Han dynasties. Many dramas, such as Hero and The Legend of Mi Yue, were filmed here. There are also amusement park rides and spectacular performances at Fantasy Valley, offering day and night entertainment. Dongyang Lu Residence: A prestigious complex of Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture in the south of the Yangtze River, it is said that "in the north, there is the Forbidden City, and in the south, there is the Lu Residence." Exquisite wood carvings adorn the beams, brackets, and arches, depicting flowers, birds, insects, fish, and figures from stories, narrating the past glory of the Lu family. The deep courtyards exude an ancient charm. Yongkang Fangyan: Known for its steep peaks and strange rocks, Fangyan stands proudly with its unique Danxia landform. The Hugong Temple is filled with the smoke of burning incense, a testament to the reverence of the people. From the top of Fangyan Mountain, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the rolling hills and picturesque countryside. Walking along the winding mountain paths, you can admire the cliff carvings and appreciate the cultural heritage. Pujiang Xianhua Mountain: Known for its strangeness, danger, vastness, and tranquility, Xianhua Mountain is famous in the south of the Yangtze River. The peaks stand tall, with the Maiden Peak resembling a graceful lady, said to be the incarnation of a fairy. The mountain is shrouded in clouds and mist, and the plank road hangs in mid-air. Along the climbing route, you'll encounter jagged rocks and lush vegetation. Reaching the summit, you'll feel like you've entered a fairyland. Food Delights Jinhua Ham: One of the three most famous hams in the world, Jinhua ham has a bright red color and a rich, savory aroma. It can be steamed or used in soups. Its rich flavor is representative of Jinhua cuisine. We recommend "Ham Stewed with Old Duck," a delicious and nourishing soup. Jinhua Shortcake: A traditional Jinhua pastry with a crispy, multi-layered crust and a filling of savory minced meat and fragrant preserved mustard greens. It makes a satisfying crunch when you bite into it, leaving a lingering fragrance. You can buy it everywhere, and it's best eaten hot. Dongyang Wo Noodles: A unique type of thick noodle soup with chewy noodles and a rich broth, combined with various seafood, vegetables, and shredded meat. The savory and salty flavors blend perfectly, creating a warm and satisfying dish that evokes nostalgia for Dongyang locals. Yongkang Meat Pancake: Shaped like a full moon, this pancake has a thin and crispy crust filled with fresh meat, preserved mustard greens, or fresh vegetables. Baked until golden brown, it has an enticing aroma. One bite will fill your mouth with the savory juices of the meat. It's portable and delicious, making it a perfect snack for hiking. Itinerary Day 1: Jinhua City—Shuanglong Cave Morning: Arrive in Jinhua and head to Shuanglong Cave Scenic Area. Explore the core caves, such as Shuanglong Cave and Binghu Cave, and marvel at the natural wonders (approx. 3–4 hrs). Lunch: Enjoy Jinhua specialties at a farmhouse restaurant near the scenic area. Don't miss the braised pork with dried bamboo shoots, featuring tender spring bamboo shoots and savory pork. Afternoon: Stroll along Deer Girl Lake, enjoying the tranquil beauty of the alpine lake. Take photos and breathe in the fresh air (approx. 2 hrs). Evening: Return to the city and visit Guzi City. Explore the night market, sample various snacks, and experience the vibrant nightlife of Jinhua. Stay at a guesthouse near Guzi City and immerse yourself in the charm of the ancient city. Day 2: Jinhua—Hengdian World Studios Morning: Drive to Hengdian and embark on a journey through film and television history. Start at the Ming and Qing Palace, watch a large-scale live-action performance, rent costumes for photos, and immerse yourself in palace life (4 hrs). Lunch: Have a "film crew box lunch" in Hengdian Town and experience the daily meals of film and television professionals. It's affordable and offers a variety of dishes. Afternoon: Move on to the Qin Palace, explore the filming locations of dramas such as Nirvana in Fire, and watch a thrilling 4D show depicting the history of the Qin and Han dynasties (3–4 hrs). Evening: Go to Fantasy Valley, enjoy exciting amusement park rides, and watch the spectacular live-action performances of volcanic eruptions and flash floods. Immerse yourself in the joy of the dazzling light show. After the show, check in to a hotel in Hengdian. Day 3: Hengdian—Dongyang Lu Residence—Yongkang Fangyan Morning: Visit Dongyang Lu Residence, admire the wood carving art, learn about the family history with a guide (2–3 hrs). Lunch: Enjoy Wo Noodles and Dongyang Clay Pot Chicken in Dongyang City. The chicken is tender and the soup is rich. Afternoon: Head to Yongkang Fangyan, climb the mountain, and visit Hugong Temple (4–5 hrs). Be sure to wear comfortable athletic shoes. Evening: Stay at a farmhouse at the foot of Fangyan Mountain, enjoy farmhouse dishes, and try local specialties such as Fangyan red oranges and Tangyang tangerines. Day 4: Yongkang—Pujiang Xianhua Mountain Morning: Drive to Pujiang Xianhua Mountain and embark on a hiking and sightseeing adventure. Climb along the plank road, admiring the strange peaks, rocks, sea of clouds, and pine forests (4–5 hrs). Lunch: Replenish your energy on the mountain with some portable food. After reaching the summit, enjoy the magnificent view of the mountains and rivers. Afternoon: After descending the mountain, take a short break. On the way back, you can stop in Pujiang City and buy some local handicrafts, such as Pujiang paper-cuts and wheat straw paintings. Evening: Return to Jinhua City and enjoy a Jinhua hot pot dinner, featuring a variety of ingredients in a spicy and flavorful broth, concluding your journey with a delicious meal. Transportation Guide Jinhua is easily accessible by air and high-speed rail. City buses can take you directly to some attractions. To get to Hengdian, Yongkang, and other places, you can take special bus lines from the bus station, or take a taxi or drive yourself. Parking is relatively convenient around the scenic areas, but it's best to plan ahead and avoid congestion during holidays. Jinhua offers both the stunning beauty of nature and the cultural treasures of a thousand years of history. From exploring caves to following in the footsteps of film stars, from tracing your roots in ancient houses to admiring the mountains and rivers, this journey is full of surprises that will leave you with unforgettable memories.