Recommended Tour Itineraries for Chaohu

This trip lets you admire the quintessential scenery of Chaohu Lake and unwind with soothing hot spring baths for complete physical and mental relaxation, bringing boundless joy.

After arriving in downtown Chaohu, take a public bus to Ziwei Cave in the northern suburbs. Ranked among the Four Famous Caves north of the Yangtze River, it is also known as Twin Wells Cave, named after two natural well-shaped openings of different sizes inside the cave. The main tunnel stretches over 1,500 meters, forming a typical underground river cave system with corridor-like passages. Visitors alternate between climbing stone steps and drifting along dark underground rivers. Spectacular sights such as Waterfall Falling from Outer Heaven, Twin Wells Piercing the Sky and Cold Iron Chain Bridge live fully up to their names. More than 620 stone Buddha statues carved during the Southern and Northern Dynasties adorn the cave walls, making the site a treasure trove of cliff grotto art.

Have lunch in the city center.

In the afternoon, board a speedboat bound for Mushan Island. As the top scenic spot of Chaohu Lake, Mushan Island is the largest island at the lake’s heart. It is hailed as an "oasis on the lake" and boasts abundant cultural relics. Wenfeng Pagoda, erected in the 4th year of the Chongzhen reign, houses 802 brick-carved Buddha statues inside, a breathtaking sight. A small fishing village sits on the island, lined with family-run inns and restaurants serving fresh-caught fish and shrimp. A satisfying meal for four people costs roughly 100 RMB. Spend the night at a family inn on the island. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, the island falls into complete silence after dark under a sky full of twinkling stars, offering supreme comfort and peace.

After an early breakfast, head back to downtown Chaohu and take a coach from Chaohu Long-Distance Bus Station to Hexian County. First visit Humble Chamber Park in the county town to tour Liu Yuxi’s humble cottage. Stand amid the "immortal mountain" and "dragon pond" that inspired his famous line: A mountain gains renown not for its height, but for immortals dwelling there; a pool gains magic not for its depth, but for dragons lurking within. You will surely be immersed in ancient charm and filled with profound emotions.

Chaohu is reputed as the "Capital of Hot Springs". In the afternoon, you may soak in Xiangquan Hot Springs directly or travel back to the city to choose Bantang Hot Springs, enjoying unhurried leisure time. You can stay in the hot springs as long as you like and depart whenever you wish.

Lunch: Local restaurants in Hexian County Dinner: Downtown Chaohu

Overnight stay in downtown Chaohu