Summer at Yuantouzhu hides the coolest poetry by the shores of Taihu Lake!

Who says Yuantouzhu is only about cherry blossoms in spring? In midsummer, this place is a perfect secret spot to escape the crowds and embrace the lake breeze! From July to August, Yuantouzhu is filled with the scent of lotus and shaded by lush greenery, with the fresh air of Taihu Lake all around!

📍Must-visit summer-exclusive scenic spots:

- Deep in the Lotus Flowers: The lotus pond is in full bloom! Pink and white lotus flowers stand gracefully, and the green lotus leaves form a "green carpet." When the wind blows, the whole pond is fragrant. Take a rowboat through the lotus pond, and you can almost touch the petals, instantly becoming the star of a "Jiangnan Lotus Picking" painting. On rainy days, you can capture the dreamy beauty of "raindrops on lotus leaves."
- Taihu Fairy Island: Take a boat to the island and climb Luting Mountain for a panoramic view. The entire Taihu Lake sparkles, with blue-green water merging with the sky, as if you've stepped onto a tropical island! Ancient buildings are hidden in the shade of trees, and walking on the stone paths while listening to cicadas and lake waves is incredibly soothing.
- By Changchun Bridge: Without cherry blossoms, the willow trees here become a "green curtain." The drooping willow branches brush the lake surface, sunlight filters through the leaves creating dappled light. Sitting on a bench by the bridge, feeling the Taihu breeze and watching boats pass by is so relaxing you won’t want to leave.

💧Super refreshing activities recommended:

1. Morning garden stroll: Enter right at 7:30 when the park opens. At this time, there are fewer people, the temperature is low, and the sunlight is soft. It’s perfect for photographing the lotus pond and Taihu morning mist. You might even meet local grandparents exercising and hear their stories about Yuantouzhu.
2. Evening boat ride: Take the last boat after 4:00 PM (returning around 5:00 PM) to avoid the midday heat. You can watch the Taihu sunset from the boat—the setting sun dyes the lake orange-red, and the clouds look edged with gold. Every photo you take will be a masterpiece of the "orange sea."
3. Picnic in the shade: Find a shady spot on the lawn area of "Chongshan Yin Xiu," spread out a picnic blanket, bring some fruit and sandwiches, and enjoy lunch with the lake breeze. It’s even more comfortable than an air-conditioned room. Remember to take your trash with you!

📌Summer tips:

- Wear light-colored, breathable clothes, bring a sun hat and sunglasses, and be sure to apply enough sunscreen (the lake surface reflects strongly);
- There is free drinking water in the park, bring a portable water bottle to stay hydrated anytime;
- It’s recommended to buy tickets online in advance (90 RMB/person), and you can enter directly by scanning your ID without queuing;
- Avoid peak hours from 10 AM to 3 PM on weekends for a more relaxed visit.

Summer at Yuantouzhu is less crowded than the cherry blossom season but offers a more tranquil Jiangnan charm. Quickly gather your friends and come to Taihu Lake for a refreshing summer date!