Lizhuang

We made our way from Chengdu to Yibin, our first sight of the mighty Yangtze, then got another bus downriver to Lizhuang. Finding the town, then our accommodation was a challenge due to communication and technological difficulties. One if the hotels wouldn't take us although obviously empty, they walked us to a better hotel on the river that was half the price. We were suspicious of the price due to fancy decor and stunning views. This ended up being one of our best hotels in China costing only 160 Yuan, or $32.

Lizhuang is a heritage town, they have tastefully kept buildings as they were 100 years ago while allowing shops and restaurants to continue. This town was where many of China's cultural artifacts were stored during Japanese invasion in WWII.

We spent a morning strolling around the ancient alleyways and courtyards. We visited the Zhang family hall where many artifacts were stored and there is now a museum.

The town itself has a very relaxed vibe. The locals dance on the waterfront each night, and the food is delicious. We had a meal of bairou, thin sliced pork with spicy dip (a local specialty). We ordered other stuff by just pointing at the menu, ending up with fried peanuts and chillis, and a whole fish.