China's First International Slow City: One Hour from Nanjing for a Slow Weekend Getaway

An ancient imperial capital, Nanjing's status in Jiangsu is self-evident. The city's long history is matched by a wealth of scenic spots. When you visit, don't miss the grand legacy of the Six Dynasties, and be sure to stroll through the Sun Yat-sen Mausoleum. But there's another side of Nanjing I'd like to recommend: the Gaochun district.

Gaochun is China's first Slow City and home to the headquarters of the International Slow City movement in China. 'Slow City' means there's more space for walking and more green areas for relaxation.

Day 1: Travel from Hangzhou to Nanjing, then take the metro to Gaochun. In the afternoon, visit Gucheng Lake Water Slow City (water activities, thousand-acre lotus pond) – Gucheng Lake Happy Fishing Hotel – Gaochun Ancient Street (Old Street Post Office).

Day 2: Zhensong Resort Hotel – Gaochun International Slow City Yaxi (Slow Park treetop walk, rainbow slide, treetop slide) – Youzi Mountain Special Rural Field Village: Longshang Village (visitor center, Wuwai Coffee, design studio) – Ten-Li Ancient Ship Plank Confucian Integrity Culture Path – Qingcha Space Tea Culture Experience Hall; Xiaomaoshanjiao: Huazhushe·Zhengfu Thatched Cottage. Return to Hangzhou in the evening.

【Gucheng Lake Water Slow City】

Gaochun district is often called the back garden of Nanjing. With its classic beauty and charming scenery, the Slow City vibe is utterly captivating. Stepping into this area feels like entering the countryside, where the lush landscapes make you want to stay forever. Our first stop was Gucheng Lake Water Slow City, a poetic setting where each season paints a different picture.

Vast flower fields stretch across thousands of hectares, while the lake is dotted with lush lotuses. In spring, blossoms open and fill the air with fragrance. Young people laugh and play among the blooms—a harmonious scene of beauty. In autumn, the foliage turns brilliant colors, reflecting in the emerald water. Fiery maple leaves ignite the excitement, and even as the autumn wind blows, the area remains bustling with visitors. In winter, snow blankets the mountains, creating a pristine white world. On frigid days, the trees may even be coated in rime, a breathtaking sight that draws Nanjing's crowds. On clear days, visitors dressed in colorful winter wear contrast with the snow, making the landscape even more stunning. But the best season is high summer.

Now in early July, the lake ripples with gentle waves, a breeze rustles the lotus leaves, fish swim beneath, and flowers exude fragrance. Here, the lakeside flower lake shines brilliantly, with tens of thousands of blooms in a spectacular display. It's easy to lose yourself in this romantic sea of flowers—this is true bliss.

The thousand-acre Hundred Lotus Garden is even more enchanting. By the lake, you can pick the big, round lotus leaves and wear them as hats. The variety of lotuses is astonishing, from domestic species to foreign ones, and the giant water lily pads are simply incredible. Bringing children here will definitely broaden their horizons.

Of course, don't miss the water activities. On a scorching summer day, who wouldn't love getting up close with water? The lake has shallow areas and safety measures, so everyone can enjoy the water with peace of mind. Surfing is thrilling and leaves a lasting impression. The water obstacle course is loads of fun, with cleverly designed challenges. This area is a paradise for families with kids.

【Gaochun Ancient Street】

Our second stop was Gaochun Ancient Street, a famous spot in Nanjing. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, merchants gathered here and water transport thrived. Countless scholars and nobles lingered, drawn by its charm. With its small bridges, flowing water, and antique-style inns, the old street has been revitalized through local development.

Stepping into the ancient street, the layout immediately catches your eye. The bluestone-paved road exudes history, flanked by rows of wooden buildings in antique style. Tall plaques bear gilded characters, and many old-brand shops still thrive. In fact, Gaochun Ancient Street is known as the 'Second Confucius Temple' of Nanjing.

With a long history and rich culture, this was once the most prosperous town in Jiangnan. Along the river, houses were built organically. Looking at the rows of whitewashed walls and black-tiled roofs, the classic waterside town style is a feast for the senses. On the old street stands the Guanyu Temple. Inside, a lifelike statue of Guan Gong dominates the center, with a long beard and piercing eyes, flanked by the Eight Vajra protectors of Buddhism.

On the first and fifteenth of each lunar month, worshippers flock here. People of all ages pray devoutly, and the small temple fills with the scent of sandalwood. Some tap wooden fish to find solace. Also not to be missed is the Gaochun Folk Museum, which houses over 1,600 well-preserved antiquities. Visitors here are often deeply moved.

Listening to the guide's stories, we gained a deeper understanding of the old street's ancient culture. Everyone sighed in admiration—this street truly carries centuries of cultural memory. May its heritage continue to flourish forever.

【Zhensong Resort Hotel】

The third highlight is the Zhensong Resort Hotel, nestled within the Gaochun Slow City scenic area. Its unique design is a delight. Slow City is already a well-known leisure destination, offering a relaxing escape for white-collar workers from the Nanjing metropolitan area and the entire Yangtze River Delta.

After being immersed in the city for too long, everyone craves relaxation and comfort. Zhensong Resort Hotel truly delivers. Built on flat ground amid rolling hills, its exterior is stylish and its interior warm and inviting. In fact, it feels tailor-made for urban professionals.

In the morning, open your door to a magnificent mountain landscape. Birds flock and fragrant grass greets you—this is nature at its finest. Tall birch trees surround the rooms, and cobblestone paths wind playfully through the countryside. Stroll along these trails, breathe in the fresh air, and your mood instantly lifts.

Inside the hotel, the charming wooden cabins are a pleasant surprise. The main room is neatly arranged in all-white tones, giving a clean, spacious, bright, and elegant feel—qualities that guests unanimously praise.

It's safe to say visitors leave with unforgettable memories. The hotel is set amid poetic scenery, surrounded by natural beauty—exactly what people yearn for. Achieving tranquility within a busy setting, while blending urban culture with nature, is truly precious.

【Gaochun International Slow City Yaxi】

The fourth stop is Gaochun International Slow City Yaxi. Yaxi Town lies southeast of Gaochun district in Nanjing, with a population of about 20,000. Since an Italian mayor visited, interest in the area has grown. Yaxi boasts beautiful scenery, with tens of thousands of hectares of farmland. In spring and summer, the fragrance of blossoms fills the air; in autumn and winter, leaves dance down. Locals lead a simple, frugal agricultural life, yet the pastoral landscape is stunning.

Internationally, Yaxi is recognized as a Slow City. This unique lifestyle draws flocks of visitors, earning widespread admiration. Unlike typical agritourism, Yaxi offers the joy of returning to a simpler life. In the fields, hares, waterfowl, sparrows, and egrets are a common sight. Residents go about their work, enjoying a beautiful way of life.

As our country enters a new phase of development, ecological protection has become paramount. As an outstanding representative township, Yaxi lives up to expectations. Enter the village, and you're greeted by babbling streams and lush trees. In the height of summer, vitality and energy are everywhere. The name 'Yaxi' comes from the flourishing branches and clear streams that encircle it. Visitors come from all directions to experience the finest pastoral scenery.

Tourist activities are gradually increasing. Locals run guesthouses and let visitors pick agricultural products—a source of great joy for everyone. In the Slow Park, urban travelers rediscover long-lost pleasures. The distinctive farm life here is eye-opening, and young students gain a lot. Nowadays, some schools even bring students here for immersive experiences.

The Treetop Adventure, introduced in 2018, is a large-scale forest expansion project that takes visitors into a secret urban retreat in the woods. It combines safety, excitement, and style, with 47 fun and challenging obstacles. Also not to be missed is the rainbow slide, stretching dozens of meters.

A new glass walkway winds among the treetops, with ropes and various-shaped stepping planks. As you navigate through the canopy, lush leaves brush past your ears and cheeks, and you can clearly see the ground beneath through the netting underfoot. This attraction is expected to open officially in early 2019.

In the scorching summer, the treetop slide is a big hit. Drift down the rushing water, embracing the cool stream as it splashes all around. There's also the rainbow slide here.

The slide is designed like a rainbow, greatly enhancing the fun, especially for children. Not far from the slide, there's a glass walkway on the mountain. Walking across it, you overlook countless hills and waters, the lush foliage of Yaxi spread out below—this is pure joy.

The final stop not to be missed is Youzi Mountain Special Rural Field Village. As the ancient poem goes, 'Thread in the hands of a loving mother, clothes on the wandering son.' In olden times, sons who left home were forever missed by their mothers. In Gaochun, Youzi Mountain is a major attraction, and at its foot lies a charming rural village with lovely scenery.

In Longshang Village, a modern reception style has been introduced. The visitor center is warmly and tastefully arranged, with neat and spacious displays, allowing tourists to relax. You'll find the same cafes common in cities. But the most delightful surprise is the cultural experience hall. Youzi Mountain was a cultural hub during the Ming and Qing dynasties, where scholars left behind numerous poems.

Along the Cultural Plank Path, there's the Qingcha Space Tea Culture Experience Hall. Unlike elsewhere, this teahouse has an enduring charm. Order a bowl of clear tea, lean on the railing, and you'll instantly feel the essence of Youzi Mountain. A gentle breeze carries the fragrance of tea. Sipping slowly, the smooth liquor glides down your throat and into your heart. On a hot summer day, this is the ultimate cool refreshment.

Further ahead, you reach Xiaomao Mountain. Just tens of meters high, its slopes are steep and paths rugged. Yet the scenery is beautiful, with pine and cypress trees standing tall. Climbing the hill, a fresh breeze greets you, and looking up, you take in a panoramic view—it's utterly refreshing.

At the foot of Youzi Mountain, there's also the Zhengfu Thatched Cottage. Exquisitely arranged, its interior is classically elegant. This was the residence of a great poet, lovingly preserved. The cottage exudes a unique charm, as if the cultural aura of centuries past is still alive. Only by being there can you truly experience it. Youzi Mountain remains as romantic as ever, with fragrant flowers and tall trees—the pastoral scenery here is unforgettable.