Moganshan First-Timer's Guide｜Must-Read Tips to Avoid Pitfalls

First time in Moganshan and don't know what to do? Bookmark this guide! Practical tips compiled by locals will help you navigate this summer retreat~ 🚗 Recommended Transportation • High-speed Rail: Get off at Deqing Station and take a 30-minute taxi ride (approx. CNY 60). • Self-driving Routes: From Hangzhou: 1 hour (Provincial Road 304 recommended) From Shanghai: 2.5 hours (Shenjiahu Expressway to Lianhang Expressway) From Jiangsu: 2 hours (Changtai Expressway to Huyu Expressway) 🏞 Top 8 Must-See Attractions Yu Village Cultural Market Republic of China-era architecture + artistic cafes. Evening visits recommended for night views. Moganshan Scenic Area Combined ticket for Sword Pool, Xuguang Terrace, Chiang Kai-shek's Residence, and other attractions: CNY 85 Sky Forest Valley Theme Park Recommended: Mountain Luge, High-altitude Net Array. Top choice for family trips. Yaowu Reservoir "Little Jiuzhaigou of Northern Zhejiang," featuring dreamy Tiffany blue waters. Xinshi Ancient Town A truly ancient town untouched by commercialization. Try the authentic tea cakes. Shangzhushan Fantasy Valley Stunning azalea blooms in April-May. Abundant outdoor adventure activities. Xiazhu Lake Wetland Take a sculling boat for birdwatching (best time for egrets: May-June). Biwu Dragon Pool Waterfall + bamboo forest combination. Easy hiking trail, suitable for beginners. 🍽 Mountain Delicacies Checklist ✔ Bamboo Forest Free-range Chicken (a must-try at farmhouse restaurants) ✔ Spring Bamboo Shoots with Salted Pork (seasonal specialty) ✔ Bamboo Tube Wu Rice (with a subtle bamboo fragrance) ✔ Tea-flavored Shrimp (cooked with Mogan Yellow Buds tea) ✔ Mulberry Leaf Tempura (crispy and not greasy) 📅 Classic 3-Day Itinerary Day 1: In-depth tour of the main scenic area → Yu Village night view → Stay in a mountainside B&B Day 2: Flower viewing at Fantasy Valley → Wetland boat tour → Enjoy lake-fresh cuisine Day 3: Photos at Yaowu → Theme park fun → Return trip via the ancient town 🏡 Accommodation Tips • Luxury Options: Naked Stables, Le Passage Mohkan Hills • Value Recommendations: Backstreet Moganshan, Villa Smith • Book at least 1 month in advance during peak season (July-August) • For budget travelers, consider staying in Deqing County, a 40-minute drive away. 💡 Practical Advice ① The best time to visit is May-June, with pleasant temperatures. ② Bring mosquito repellent! There are many mosquitoes in the bamboo forest. ③ Wear comfortable hiking shoes, as the stone paths can be slippery. ④ Rainy days offer a unique charm with clouds and mist.