Twenty-three travel trade professionals from Austria, Switzerland, and Sri Lanka recently visited Yangzhou, embarking on a two-day trip in this charming city.

Travel tradesmen show interest in beaded bracelets at Heyuan garden. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

Their tour began with an exploration of the elegant Jiangnan gardening landscapes in the Slender West Lake scenic area and a visit to Geyuan and Heyuan gardens.

An Austrian travel tradeswoman said that the gardens in Slender West Lake were the most beautiful she has ever visited, with every step revealing stunning views — like a flowing painting.

The group visits the Mausoleum Park of Sui Emperor Yang Guang. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

At Yangzhou Museum, the group tried their hands at woodblock printing. Stepping into the Mausoleum Park of Sui Emperor Yang Guang, they learned deep connections of Emperor Yang Guang of the Sui Dynasty (581-618) with the city.

A travel tradesman from Sri Lanka was impressed by the park's exhibition design, which uses technology to bring stories from the past to vivid life. He said it is well worth recommending to overseas tourists.

Guests enjoy zaocha at Shang Palace of the Shangri-La Hotel Yangzhou. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

As a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, Yangzhou captivated these distinguished guests from afar with its culinary appeal.

At Shang Palace of the Shangri-La Hotel Yangzhou, the city's only One Michelin Star restaurant in Jiangsu's first Michelin Guide, they were treated to zaocha, an early morning meal considered a cultural staple in Yangzhou.

At the Huaiyang Cuisine Museum of China, the live demonstration of slicing wensi tofu, a dish that represents the knife skills of Yangzhou fare, left the group in awe.

Travel tradesmen pose for a group photo at Pishi Street. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

They shopped for a bounty of cultural treasures in Dongguan Street and Pishi Street, two well-preserved ancient streets that fuse tradition with modern charm.

During their journey, they also enjoyed a night cruise down the Grand Canal. 

An unexpected highlight was square dancing with locals by Dongguan Ancient Ferry. Despite their awkward moves, the joy in the air was infectious, leaving them with an unforgettable memory.

Guests dance with Yangzhou locals by Dongguan Ancient Ferry. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]