Notable points about Taizhou

1. Taizhou, Jiangsu is the birthplace of China's first medical saint, Zhang Zhongjing, and home to the unique Guangxiao Temple complex, blending Taoist and Buddhist elements rarely seen elsewhere.
2. Unlike most Jiangsu cities known for canals, Taizhou stands out with its preserved salt merchant heritage and rich opera culture, especially the distinct Huai opera performances.
3. The best time to visit is April to May, when the Qin Lake Wetland blooms and hosts migratory birds, offering comfortable weather for outdoor exploration.
4. Taizhou is a mid-tier city with notably affordable accommodation and dining options, making it more budget-friendly than nearby cities like Suzhou or Nanjing.
5. Don’t miss the early morning ritual at Xitai Old Street where locals practice taiji and traditional calligraphy by the riverbanks—an immersive slice of old Jiangsu life.
6. Signature dishes include Taizhou fish soup (Taihu-style) and “Yangzijiang three delicacies,” with fresh river shrimp, softshell turtle, and eel served in refined banquet style.
7. City buses and affordable taxis make getting around easy, but renting a bike is the best way to explore tranquil lanes near Mei Lanfang Park and Fengcheng River Scenic Area.
8. Head to Tiandehu Park in the evening, where locals gather for lantern-lit boat rides and Taihu stone gardens—an underrated spot rarely mentioned in tourist guides.
9. Taizhou is very safe, with friendly locals eager to help; basic English may be rare, so having a translator app is handy, especially in traditional markets or old tea houses.
10. Take a sunset walk along the ancient city walls near Guangxiao Temple, followed by street snacks at Hailing District’s night market—an experience unique to Taizhou’s cultural blend.

Summarized Traveller Reviews

Taizhou's Neighborhoods