Chuzhou
Anhui's eastern gateway where a Song-dynasty essay, a mountain pavilion, and the Ming founder's hometown converge
Chuzhou at a Glance
Everything you need to know before you go.
Chuzhou sits in eastern Anhui on the fringe of the Nanjing metropolitan circle, reachable in under half an hour by high-speed train from Nanjing South, making it an easy cultural side trip. The city is famous above all for Langya Mountain, a forested national scenic area whose slopes hold the Pavilion of the Drunken Old Man (Zuiweng Ting), counted among China's four great pavilions and immortalized in the Song-dynasty scholar Ouyang Xiu's celebrated essay written while he served as prefect here. The mountain also shelters the Tang-era Langya Temple and streams referenced in Ouyang Xiu's verse, rewarding half a day of walking. Under Chuzhou's administration, Fengyang County preserves the legacy of Zhu Yuanzhang, founder of the Ming Dynasty, with the ruined Ming Zhongdu imperial city he began building in his hometown and the Ming Imperial Mausoleum of his parents with its stone-lined spirit way; nearby Xiaogang Village is marked as the birthplace of China's 1978 rural household-contract reform. Local flavors to seek out include Guanba beef from Quanjiao County, Langya crisp candy, and Chuzhou chrysanthemum tea (Chuju), one of China's four famed chrysanthemum varieties.
Where to Stay
Choose the neighborhood that fits your style.
Langya District (City Center & Langya Mountain)
The urban core of Chuzhou, spread at the foot of Langya Mountain, is the most convenient base for first-time visitors. Hotels here range from business chains to mid-range options along the commercial streets near People's Square and the main shopping complexes, and the gate of the Langya Mountain scenic area—home to Zuiweng Pavilion and Langya Temple—is a short taxi or bus ride away. Evenings can be spent sampling local dishes such as Guanba beef and sipping Chuju chrysanthemum tea at neighborhood restaurants.
Best for first-time visitors and culture seekersFengyang County
For travelers focused on Ming-dynasty history, an overnight in Fengyang county town makes it easy to cover its spread-out sights: the Ming Zhongdu imperial city ruins, the Ming Imperial Mausoleum with its stone statuary avenue, the massive Ming-era Drum Tower, and nearby Xiaogang Village, where farmers secretly initiated the household-contract system in 1978. Accommodation is mostly simple business hotels and guesthouses, but the town's compact size keeps everything within a short drive.
Best for history buffs and heritage travelersChuzhou Railway Station & South New Town
Clustered around Chuzhou Station on the Beijing–Shanghai high-speed line, this newer district is the practical choice for travelers arriving or departing by bullet train—Nanjing is under half an hour away and Shanghai roughly two hours. Modern mid-range and business hotels dominate the area, and the Nanjing–Chuzhou intercity rail links the city toward Nanjing's transit network, making it a sensible stopover on a longer Yangtze-delta itinerary.
Best for rail travelers and short stopoversChuzhou Subway Map
Navigate the city with the metro system. Plan routes, explore stations, and find exits.
Chuzhou Highlights
The city's essential experiences, grouped by what you love most.
Langya Mountain is a famous scenic spot in Chuzhou, known for its lush forests, stunning peaks, and the ancient Langya Temple. The mountain offers numerous hiking trails and breathtaking views, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
This park is a perfect spot for a relaxing day out with family or friends. It features beautiful gardens, a large lake, and various species of plants and animals. The park also offers boat rides and picnic areas.
Fenghuang Lake is a picturesque lake surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills. It is an ideal place for boating, fishing, and enjoying the serene natural beauty. The lake is also a popular spot for photography and bird watching.
Zuiweng Pavilion is a historic site associated with the famous Chinese poet Su Shi. The pavilion offers a glimpse into the region's rich literary history and provides a peaceful setting for visitors to enjoy traditional Chinese architecture and scenic views.
The Ancient City Wall is a well-preserved remnant of Chuzhou's historical past. Visitors can walk along the wall and explore the ancient gates and towers, offering a unique insight into the city's history and architecture.
Langya Temple is a Buddhist temple located at the foot of Langya Mountain. The temple is known for its beautiful architecture, tranquil atmosphere, and spiritual significance. It is a great place to experience traditional Chinese Buddhism and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Chuzhou Roast Duck is a local specialty that is renowned for its crispy skin and tender meat. The dish is often served with pancakes, scallions, and a rich sauce, providing a delightful culinary experience for visitors.
Fenghuang Lake is known for its fresh fish, which is a staple in the local cuisine. The fish is typically prepared in a variety of ways, including steaming, grilling, and braising, allowing visitors to enjoy the natural flavors of the lake.
Chuzhou offers a variety of local snacks, such as sesame cakes, rice cakes, and sweet potato noodles. These snacks are perfect for a quick bite and provide a taste of the region's traditional flavors.
Best Time to Visit
Each season offers a different side of the city.
Spring · Mar–May
Mild weather and blooming landscapes — comfortable for exploring.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Warm days; highland areas stay cool while lowland cities get hot and humid.
Autumn · Sep–Nov
The best season in most of China — crisp air, clear skies, and golden light.
Winter · Dec–Feb
Cold in the north, mild in the south. Fewer crowds and lower prices outside holidays.
Suggested Itineraries
Three carefully-paced plans for your trip.
1-Day Express
Start your day early with a visit to the famous LaLangya Mountain, a scenic arearea known for its lush forests and historical sites. Explore the Langya Temple, which offersrs a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views. After a morning of hiking and sightseeing, head to the nearby ZuiZuiweng Pavilion, a historic pavilion associated with the famous Song Dynasty poet Su Shi. Enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch at a local restaurant, savoring local specialties such as Chuzhoubraised duck and Sanhe noodles. In the afternoonnoon, visit the CChuzhou Museum to learn about the city's rich history and culture. Finally, take a leisurely stroll along the Chuzhou Anciancient city wall before continuingncluding your day.
2-Day Classic
Day 1: Begin your journey with a visit to LaLangya Mountain, where you can explore the beautiful landscapes and historical sites. Spend the morning hiking and visiting Langya Temple and Zuiweng Pavilion. Enjoy a picnicic lunch amidst the natural beauty. In the afternoon, head to the Chuzhou ancient city and wander through the traditional streets, visiting local shops and markets. Have dinner at a local restaurant, trying Chuzhou's famous braised duck and other regional dishes. Day 2: Start your day with a visit to the CChuzhou Museum to gain insights into the city's history and culture. Afterward, travel to the nearby Sanhe ancient town, a well-preservedeserved ancient town with traditional architecture and charming waterways. Explore the town's historic sites, including the Sanhe ConConfucian Temple and the ancientcient bridges. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, sampling Sanhe noodles and other localocal specialties. In the afternoon, take a boat ride along the waterways, offering a unique perspective of the town's beauty. Conclude your trip with a visit to a local tea house, where you can relax and reflect on your journey.
Local Tips
Insider knowledge for a smoother trip.
Chuzhou is a prefecture-level city in the eastern part of Anhui Province, China. Known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and cultural heritage, Chuzhou offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The city is often celebrated for its connection to the famous Chinese poet Su Wu and the historic sites related to the Ming Dynasty.
1. **LaLangya Mountain**: This scenicnic area is famous for its lush forests, clear streams, and the ancient Langya Temple. It is also the setting for the famous Chinese classic 'Outlaws of the Marsh'. 2. **Chuzhou Anciancient city wall**: A well-preserved section of the ancient city wall that offers a glimpse into the city's historical past. 3. **ZuiZuiweng Pavilion**: A historicic pavilion built during the Song Dynasty, known for its connection to the famous poet Su Wu. 4. **FeFengyang County**: Known as the birthplace of the Ming Dynasty, it is home to the Ming Imperial Mausoleum and the Xiaoling Tomb.
Chuzhou is rich in cultural heritage, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Chinese culture. The city hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Langya Cultural Festival, which celebrates the region's history and literature. Visitors can also enjoy local performances of traditional Chinese opera and folk music.
Chuzhou is known for its delicious local cuisine, which includes dishes like Chuzhou Roast Duck, Braised Pork with Preserved Vegetables, and Steamed Dumplings. The city also offers a variety of street food, such as Jianbing (Chinese crepes) and Baozi (steamed buns), which are perfect for a quick and tasty meal.
Chuzhou is easily accessible by train and bus from major cities like Nanjing and Hefei. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. English is not widely spoken, so it is advisable to have a translation app or a guide to help with communication.
FAQs About Chuzhou
Quick answers to common questions.
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