If you are going to Taizhou city in Jiangsu province, make sure to soak up some of the city's rich cultural atmosphere to have a really satisfying trip.
Xinghua, a county-level city administered by Taizhou, is the source of inspiration for The Water Margin, one of the country's Four Great Classical Novels, and it was also the retreat of its author, literary giant Shi Nai'an.
A great idea is to visit the Shi Nai'an Memorial Hall in Xinghua first to get a feel of Chinese martial arts, for the book is steeped in martial arts narratives.
Then head over to Shi Nai'an Historical and Cultural Park, a national AAA-level tourist attraction, a place which enables visitors to learn more about the legendary figure.
A striking figure of Shi Nai'an in Xinghua. [Photo/WeChat account: tzfabu]
Next, take a journey into the fascinating art of ancient Chinese ink wash painting in Taizhou by exploring the world of Zheng Banqiao, a noted bamboo painter active in the 18th century and born in Xinghua.
In his former residence, the decoration is simple yet elegant and there are displays of Zheng's calligraphy, ink and writing and painting works.
Not far from the former residence is the Zheng Banqiao Memorial Hall, which houses more than 2,000 items, making it the best place to appreciate Zheng's authentic works up close.
A wonderful work by Zheng Banqiao. [Photo/WeChat account: tzfabu]
In addition, the charms of Taizhou's opera are not to be missed as the city was also the ancestral home of Peking Opera master Mei Lanfang.
Meiyuan Garden is a picturesque spot to get close to nature and also a place that commemorates Mei, where visitors can learn more about the life of the master.
When night falls in Taizhou, visitors can take a boat trip and watch opera performances amidst the shimmering lights. [Photo/WeChat account: tzfabu]
