It's well-known that the east China city of Yangzhou has beautiful fireworks in March, but winter in the city also has gorgeous views and a tenderness that can't be hidden. 

Yangzhou is situated in the south of Jiangsu Province, at the confluence of the Yangtze River and the Grand Canal. Be it a bowl of steaming beef soup or Yangzhou fried rice, Yangzhou offers a taste of relaxed living and a getaway from the hustle and bustle of urban life. 

7:30 – Fuchun Tea House 

When you are in Yangzhou, don't miss the century-old brand "Fuchun Tea House" and try the "Pi Bao Shui," or crab soup dumplings.

Fuchun, Yechun and Gonghechun are the top three teahouses in Yangzhou. The Fuchun Teahouse is the most popular one and has a history of more than 130 years. First built during the reign of emperor Guangxu during Qing Dynasty (1636-1912), it's also known as "No. 1 restaurant of Huaiyang." For a good start to an early morning in the winter, crab soup dumplings go well with a bowl of shrimp noodles.

9:00 – Slender West Lake

Slender West Lake is a man-made lake with stunning views and historic vistas. In addition to enjoying the beautiful scenery while walking along the lake, you can also take a boat. 

After wandering along the lake, you could head to the nearby Qingpu Yangzhou Culture museum for a visit. There is a small art gallery inside the cultural center where travelers can experience local culture such as Yangju opera and jade carving.

12:00 – The Huaiyang cuisine 

Huaiyang cuisine, originated from east China cities of Huaian and Yangzhou, is among the eight main traditional Chinese cuisines. Its delicacies have won connoisseurs from all around the world. If you come to its birthplace, Crab Powder Ball and The Boiled Chub are must-eats.

14:00 – Ge Garden 

Ge Garden, or Geyuan Garden, is a private residential garden built for Huang Zhiyun, a rich salt merchant during the Qing Dynasty. The unique layout and the ingenious design of the architecture is a great display of the Yangtze people's taste. 

The "Four Seasons Rockery" is undoubtedly the most distinctive spot. Four groups of rockeries are stacked with four different types of stones in the garden to reflect the various garden landscapes. Among which, the lake stone rockery represents the summer scenery and the yellow stone rockery shows the autumn scenes. However, in the winter, the garden wears an enchanting coat of white on snowy days.

16:00 – Shuangdong Historic District 

Dongquanmen and Dongguan Street are regarded as "Shuangdong Historic District." There are many kinds of shops there selling traditional snacks and drinks, and the quiet lanes inside Dongguan Street offer respite for travelers.

After years of reconstruction, many old houses can be seen on the streets of Dongquanmen. This historic district has attracted visitors from home and abroad to relax and appreciate the city's rich culture.

18:00 – Yangzhou fried rice

Yangzhou fried rice, which is famous throughout the world, can be eaten in many restaurants in Yangzhou City. This type of fried rice belongs to Huaiyang cuisine and has enjoyed the highest status among rice dishes in China for centuries. The dish's ingredients include ham, shrimp, eggs, salt, and green onion. It is also commonly sold in the U.S. and the UK. 

Remember to eat a bowl before you go as it would definitely make your trip linger on your taste buds!

20:00 – The Ancient Grand Canal 

The Ancient Grand Canal, which runs from the north to the south of the city, has brought popularity and wealth to Yangzhou. The Ancient Grand Canal of Yangzhou is the oldest section of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal.

As night falls, you can take a cruise to enjoy the stunning night views of the city. Along the canal, there are a variety of bars and exciting street performances to enjoy. 

(Cover: The winter view of Slender West Lake, Yangzhou. /VCG Photo)