Jiangsu's most underrated hidden gem

is Huai'an.

Unassuming and quiet,

it rests gently along the Grand Canal,

embedding over 2,000 years of history

into every historic site and landscape—

gentle yet profound.

When visiting Huai'an, start with the Zhou Enlai Memorial Hall.

Standing by the clear waters of Taohua Yin,

it carries the unique grace of a water town

while bearing the solemnity of a great leader's story.

Inside, vintage artifacts and historical documents

trace the extraordinary life of Premier Zhou Enlai.

After leaving the memorial hall,

explore the ancient Huai'an Prefecture Government Office.

Wandering through its courtyards,

you'll find patterned gray bricks and lush greenery marked by time,

making you feel as if you've traveled back

to experience the layout of an ancient government office

and the city's past.

For the most authentic local vibe in Huai'an,

head to Hexia Ancient Town,

which boasts over 2,500 years of history.

Born alongside the canal,

this town produced countless scholars during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Strolling along the bluestone lanes,

time seems to slow down,

letting you touch centuries of cultural heritage

while feeling today's warmth.

Deep within the ancient town lies the Former Residence of Wu Cheng'en,

where the fantasy of Journey to the West began.

The courtyard is filled with the spirit of the classic novel,

offering glimpses into Wu Cheng'en's creative mind.

Right next to the ancient town,

the Li Yunhe Culture Museum uses Chinese and English volunteer guides

to showcase the millennium-long development of the canal,

letting you truly feel the grandeur of canal culture.

Huai'an is also a renowned food city.

The China Huaiyang Cuisine Culture Museum

systematically explores the origins, development, and inheritance

of Huaiyang cuisine—one of China's four great culinary traditions—

revealing its meticulous craftsmanship and refined flavors.

The Xuyi Ming Ancestral Tombs, the resting place of Zhu Yuanzhang's ancestors,

remain magnificent after hundreds of years.

The stone carvings along the spirit way

are exquisitely crafted and lifelike,

their weathered surfaces quietly telling stories of time

and reviving the glory of the Ming Dynasty.

If you want to escape the crowds and relax,

the quaint, lesser-known Jiangba Town is a perfect choice.

This lakeside ancient town preserves its original water village charm.

Stripped of urban hustle, only tranquility remains—

ideal for leisurely strolls and rejuvenation.

One Huai'an city holds half the history of the water towns.

The flowing canal has nurtured

this city's unique warmth and depth,

and behind every scenic spot lies a story hidden by history.