A route map of the "Song Ci River Qingfeng Tour" in Quzhou, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Tide News]

A new river tour route in Quzhou, Zhejiang province — the "Song Ci River Qingfeng Tour" — began trial operations on Oct 31. The boat departs from Shuitingmen Wharf, connecting the city's ancient water transport heritage, Confucian culture, and the story of Zhao Bian, a celebrated honest official of the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127).

The route passes by Tianwang Pagoda and through the Shuitingmen historical and cultural block, where ancient streets and the Wenchang Pavilion stand alongside the river. Across the water, a famous mulberry tree on Luming Lawn has become a popular photo spot, symbolizing the city's resilience. Shuyuan Bridge features engravings of passages from The Analects and an old map of Quzhou. At Fushi Ferry, a statue of Yu the Great, legendary tamer of floods, stands quietly.

The route ends at the Zhao Bian Memorial Hall in Shawan. Zhao Bian, known as the "Iron-Faced Censor", reportedly brought only a qin (a traditional stringed instrument) and a crane with him when he took office in Sichuan — the qin to cultivate his mind and the crane to symbolize his integrity. Visitors can learn about his life and family values, turning the river journey into a reflection on honesty and integrity.

The "Song Ci River" tour series was listed among Zhejiang's top boat routes for 2026. The flower-viewing route offers seasonal scenery throughout the year. Since opening in March, it has made 266 trips and attracted 12,599 visitors.