Verses evoke a golden era

Heritage that spans centuries gives Jiangnan culture a certain cachet, Yang Yang reports in Hangzhou.

Editor's note: China Daily reporters leverage local expertise to devise different itineraries that showcase a blend of historical landmarks and natural wonders in highly recommended cities and sites, offering practical guidance to experience the country.

More than 1,500 years ago, poet Lu Kai, living in the south, sent a sprig of plum blossom to his friend Fan Ye in the north with a line from a poem: "I have nothing to offer here in Jiangnan, but a sprig of spring."

Today, Lu's words are often quoted to portray an obvious truth: Spring is the best time to travel to Jiangnan for its unparalleled views that have inspired countless painters and poets.