Why choose Taizhou
Taizhou, known historically for its role in the production of China's famed Ming dynasty blue and white porcelain, offers a temperate climate that nurtures both lush landscapes and rich agricultural traditions. This setting allows visitors to experience a side of China that remains untouched by mass tourism, highlighted by traditional villages and tea plantations that spread across its rolling hills. A unique aspect of Taizhou is its expansive bamboo forests, which are not only a natural wonder but also a critical part of local craft and cuisine.
Taizhou holds a strategic yet understated position in China's tourism sector, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. Yet, it's a city that pioneered many of the innovations attributed to more prominent regions, including advancements in ancient Chinese medicine. While popular travel narratives skim the surface of its scenic beauty, the real Taizhou offers depth through its historical sites like the ancient Taizhou Confucian Temple, providing a more nuanced exploration for those who stray from the beaten path.
Local gastronomy in Taizhou is a delightful exploration of both land and sea, exemplified by the dish San Bai Qie, a simple yet sublime combination of fresh crab meat, tender chicken, and bright green cucumbers dressed lightly with garlic and vinegar. This dish, like many local specialties, utilizes ingredients that are staples in Taizhou's culinary scene, offering a taste of the region's bounty without the need for an adventurous palate, just a love for fresh, straightforward flavors.
Cruise lines such as MSC Cruises and Holland America Line include Taizhou in their itineraries to introduce travelers to this lesser-known gem. Shore excursions typically offer a journey through its historical landscapes, visits to local artisan workshops, or leisurely strolls in the serene bamboo groves. These experiences are enriched by stories of notable figures from Taizhou, such as Wang Gen, a philosopher who contributed to the spread of Neo-Confucianism, adding an educational twist to the scenic beauty of the tours.
