Yangzhou, a city of great change and splendour. Situated on the north banks of the Yangtze River where it converges with the Grand Canal, this smaller city is home to approximately five million people.  Yangzhou's climate is quite temperate for eastern China: spring rains are lighter, summer heat is less intense (rarely above 30C) and winter is milder (rarely below freezing) than in the surrounding areas.

Yangzhou's 2500-year history is a colorful and dynamic one. Originally a garrison city protecting the lands south of the Yangtze against northern invaders, Yangzhou knew many names and rulers over the centuries as dynasties rose and fell, as empires were built atop one another and peoples migrated across kingdoms. This lends Yangzhou a unique cultural palette, featuring architecture and artisanship from many different regions of China. Yangzhou itself became a center for art and commerce, due to its abundance of trade and migration routes. Yangzhou remains multicultural to this day, with historical relics from various dynasties and regions across the nation.

Today Yangzhou is a capital for tourism and sight-seeing. Its beautiful lakes, rivers canals and gardens offer a peaceful respite from a busy day, and its thriving markets invite adventurous shoppers and treasure hunters. The city is well-known for its toy-making and distinctive way of comedic storytelling, making a marvellous destination for families. Yangzhou also has a number of exquisite temples, pavilions and bridges. For an excellent day trip, consider a tour of Slender West Lake. If there is one thing Yangzhou is famous for however, it is its distinctive style of food. Rich in flavour and aroma, Yangzhou-style food features elaborate dishes prepared with great care and artistry, and it is widely sought-after throughout Jiangsu province.