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January 28, 2015

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Taihu Lake provides sanctuary from metropolis

The Yangtze River Delta is one of the busiest and most developed regions in China, known for metropolises like Shanghai and its manufacturing industry. However, many people have forgotten that in the center of Yangtze River Delta lies one of the most scenic lakes of China, Taihu Lake.

The Taihu Scenic Area is an official national park in China containing a rich cultural heritage and beautiful vistas. The area is located in the region of “Jiangnan,” a traditional place of romance where poets and writers gather.

With the rapid development of China in recent years, the Yangtze River Delta has seen a huge economic boost. However, as urban areas have expanded with their ever-higher skyscrapers, many scenic sights have disappeared, leaving areas such as Taihu among the diminishing places with natural environments that local people can enjoy. It’s location within China’s most developed and modern area accentuates its importance and value.

Taihu Scenic Area is a large sightseeing area covering 888 square kilometers of land and lake in Jiangsu Province. Its large size creates diversity within the scenic area, which contains 13 major scenic areas. Each major scenic area has its own features of landscapes and towns. Some areas are on islands while others have famous temples and relics. The abundant mixture of lake scenes and cultural heritage of Taihu Scenic Area gives tourists plenty to look at and study.

Those scenic areas are from four cities. The Guangfu Scenic Area is a fishing village located on the east coast of Lake Taihu, including four peninsulas within the lake and some nearby islands. Guangfu Scenic Area is famous for its views of surrounding waters and hills. The area also has many relics, making it one of the most typical areas of Taihu.

Meilianghu Scenic Area is another area famous for its views of water. Located along the northern coast of Taihu, the area is blessed with magnificent views of the lake.

Xishan Scenic Area is many tourists’ favorite, as it is China’s largest island within a lake. The island has many ancient relics that display a strong local culture of Wu Yue. Fishery and fruit agriculture make up its traditional economy, so it has an abundant supply of both products. Make sure do not miss out on the local goods if you are on a tour.

There are many other scenic areas. All have special features of either great water and hill views or ancient villages and relics. The Taihu Scenic Area also has two independent sightseeing destinations in addition to the 13 major scenic areas — the Taibo Temple and Grave of Taibo.

The most famous sight in Taihu Scenic Area is the Taibo Temple, dedicated to the mythic Taibo who brought civilization to the local barbaric lands. The kingdom of Wu was created in his name. The temple is said to have been the living place of Taibo when he was alive. After his death, people turned the place into a temple to commemorate this local hero.

Grave of Taibo is another famous local spot. The various temples and sights in Taihu show the culture of Wu. Being the founder of the Wu kingdom and the creator of Wu culture, Taibo is the most important character to the local people.

Taihu Scenic Area also produces various local goods. It’s the origin of famous southern Chinese dishes, such as sauce ribs. The famous Biluochun tea is also grown here.




 

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