A True Millennium Ancient City (Linhai)

Donghu Lake in Linhai, Taizhou City, Zhejiang Province, is a famous scenic spot known for its Jiangnan garden landscape and rich historical and cultural heritage, attracting numerous tourists. Below is a detailed travel guide covering transportation, tickets, recommended attractions, food and accommodation, as well as photo spots. 1. Introduction to Donghu Lake Donghu Lake in Linhai was excavated during the Northern Song Dynasty, originally serving as a naval garrison for warships. It was expanded over successive dynasties to become the premier garden in Taizhou, known as the "Little West Lake." Donghu covers a total area of 280 mu and is divided into three major scenic areas: - East Lake Area: Yishui Villa, Rongxing Hall, Linhai History Museum, Donghu Stele Forest, etc. - Central Lake Area: Central Lake Pavilion, Ban Gou Pavilion, Luo Linhai Shrine, Qiaoyun Pavilion, etc. - Rear Lake Area: Qishui Garden, Xiao Jian Lake, Haijiao Garden, etc. Donghu blends the beauty of natural landscapes and man-made architecture, with distinct scenery in each season, representing a typical Jiangnan garden. 2. Travel Tips 1. Recommended Route - Enter from the South Gate and exit from the North Gate: Start at the South Gate, follow the main road to visit Central Lake Pavilion, Nine-Bend Bridge, Luo Linhai Shrine, and other attractions, then exit from the North Gate. You can also visit the Taizhou City Wall (Jiangnan Great Wall) along the way. - Key Attractions: - Central Lake Pavilion: The iconic building of Donghu, surrounded by water, perfect for photos. - Nine-Bend Bridge: Winding and twisting, reflecting in the water, full of ancient charm. - Luo Linhai Shrine: Commemorates the Tang Dynasty poet Luo Binwang, with couplets worth appreciating. - Qiaoyun Pavilion: Legend says it commemorates a woodcutter who drowned himself to express his resolve, rich in historical stories. 2. Duration - Recommended 1-2 hours; extend to half a day for in-depth exploration or photography. 3. Ticket Information - Donghu Lake single ticket: 15 RMB per person. - Combined ticket (Donghu Lake + Jiangnan Great Wall): 65 RMB per person, offering better value. 3. Transportation Guide - Bus: Multiple city buses in Linhai, such as routes 201 and 218, stop at "Taizhou City Wall (Donghu)" or "Donghu" stations. - High-speed Rail: About 15 km by taxi from Linhai High-speed Rail Station, or take bus 218 directly. - Self-driving: Navigate to the intersection of Donghu Road and Huipu Road in Linhai City; parking is available nearby. 4. Food and Accommodation Recommendations 1. Food - Ziyang Street: Famous snack street in Linhai, recommended dishes include seaweed cakes, black rice mochi, wheat shrimp, egg white lamb tail, etc. - Baita Bridge Restaurant: A local favorite offering authentic Linhai cuisine. 2. Accommodation - Near Chonghe Gate / Ziyang Street: Convenient transportation with a wide range of options from budget to high-end hotels. - Featured Homestays: - Liaoshe (Shengkeng Village): A mortise and tenon structure homestay hidden in an ancient village, peaceful environment. - Caosu (Shengkeng Village): Integrates with the ancient village, featuring handmade linens and natural style design. 5. Photo and Check-in Spots 1. Chonghe Gate: Entrance to Taizhou City Wall, with a magnificent backdrop. 2. Central Lake Pavilion and Ban Gou Pavilion: Classical architecture harmonizing with the lake water. 3. Nine-Bend Bridge: Layered and full of Jiangnan charm. 4. Luo Linhai Shrine: Solemn and dignified, ideal for cultural photography. 5. Stone Stele Forest: Rich cultural atmosphere, perfect for ancient-style photos. 6. Nearby Attractions 1. Jiangnan Great Wall (Taizhou City Wall): Just one street away from Donghu, offering panoramic views of the lake. 2. Ziyang Ancient Street: A millennium-old street where food and ancient architecture coexist. 3. Longxing Temple and Jinshan: A Buddhist cultural site with twin towers on the hilltop, offering a panoramic view of Linhai. 7. Best Seasons to Visit - Spring and Autumn (March-May, September-November): Pleasant climate with the most beautiful lake and mountain scenery. - Winter: Snow scenes combined with ancient architecture create a unique charm. Donghu Lake in Linhai is a renowned Jiangnan garden that integrates natural scenery, historical culture, and leisure entertainment, perfect for a slow and detailed visit. Whether boating on the lake or strolling through ancient streets, you can feel the unique charm of this millennium-old city.