I've been to Haining 5 times, and my advice is...

For those planning to visit Haining in July and August, here’s a super detailed guide! 🚗 Transportation Take the high-speed train to Haining West Station, then a taxi for about half an hour to the scenic area; driving is more convenient—exit at "Yanguan" on the Hangpu Expressway and navigate to the Tide-Watching Scenic Park P4 parking lot. 📅 3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Haining in the morning and check into a charming guesthouse in Yanguan Ancient City. For lunch, try the local specialty Qianlong Banquet Meatballs—fish meat that’s springy, juicy, and super fresh. In the afternoon, visit the Tide-Watching Scenic Park. Use the mini-program "Qiantang Tide" to check tide times, secure your spot an hour early, and experience the awe of the "frontline tide." Remember to wear non-slip shoes and waterproof clothing! In the evening, stroll through the Nanguanxiang Lantern Market, where the intangible cultural heritage needle-punched palace lanterns are stunning. Day 2: In the morning, visit the former residence of Xu Zhimo. The wisteria flowers, just like in "Saying Goodbye to Cambridge Again," are super romantic, and the ticket is only 10 yuan—very reasonable. For lunch, try the city’s famous pot-cooked pork, rich but not greasy and melts in your mouth. In the afternoon, head to the Jianshan Paragliding Base for a breathtaking view of the Qiantang River estuary; booking one day in advance is required. In the evening, return to the city and explore the Leather City. Building A offers high-end fur products with up to 30% off bargaining, while Building H has affordable and stylish shoes that are great for shopping. Day 3: Sleep in, then visit Liangjiadun Art Village. The rice field cafes and popular mural walls are perfect for photos. Rent a bike and ride along the Qiantang Greenway to enjoy the leisurely countryside scenery. Have lunch at a local farmhouse restaurant to taste fresh farm dishes, then head back in the afternoon. 🍜 Food Must-try dishes include Haining pot-cooked pork, Qianlong Banquet Meatballs, Gaoyangqiao Zongzi, and the Ziwei cold eight-treasure soup—a refreshing summer drink made with glutinous rice, mung beans, and jujubes. 🏨 Accommodation Stay in the quaint guesthouses in Yanguan Ancient City; the Atour Hotel in Nanguanxiang offers night view rooms with windows overlooking a sea of lights; the Langham Hotel next to Leather City also provides free shuttle service. ❗ Tips: Don’t stand too close when watching the tide—the water moves very fast; remember to apply sunscreen if visiting in July and August.