Yangzhou Fried Rice is more than just fried rice — a 1,600-year-old "Golden Crumb Rice" cultural heritage

▲ Yangzhou Fried Rice has a history of 1,400 years. (Photo / Reporter Hu Qili)

Reported by Reporter Hu Qili / Yangzhou

Yangzhou City in Jiangsu Province isthe home of"Yangzhou Fried Rice,"which legend says originated 1,600 years ago during the Sui Dynasty. At that time, it was known as"Golden Crumb Rice,"

the precursor to the modern dish. The cooking technique of Yangzhou Fried Rice has been designated as an intangible cultural heritage by Jiangsu Province. Moreover, Yangzhou offers many other local delicacies, including soup dumplings, lion's head meatballs, and brine-braised goose. Travelers here can not only admire stunning landscapes but also indulge in a rich culinary experience that delights the palate.

%Jiaoliuhuan? (Photo / Reporter Hu Qili)

In Yangzhou, there’s a saying: “In the morning, wrapped in water,” referring to the local tradition of enjoying morning tea. Locals pair various types of steamed buns — such as three-dice buns and red bean paste buns — with hot dishes to start their day. There's even a phrase to describe crab roe soup dumplings: “Open the window first, then drink the soup,” meaning that when freshly steamed, the dumpling skin is thin and packed with juice, allowing diners to slurp out the savory broth in one go.

%Jiciqiezilaohuansuo de niumangchang (Photo / Reporter Hu Qili)

In this historic city with a 2,500-year legacy, besides its delectable food, there are also many classic Chinese-style buildings. For example, the Daming Temple, built during the Liu Song Dynasty of the Southern Dynasties, combines Buddhist culture, historical relics, and garden scenery, attracting many worshippers and pilgrims.

%Jialaoyezhulinlangyuan (Photo / Reporter Hu Qili)

For those interested in seeing the residences of Qing Dynasty salt merchants, visit “Ge Garden,” one of China’s Four Great Classical Gardens. It features a wide variety of bamboo species and rockeries as landscape elements, showcasing the refined tastes and ingenuity of its former owner.

%Jialaoyuanguxiangjie (Photo / Reporter Hu Qili)

Meanwhile, Dongguan Street, located near Ge Garden, stretches 1,122 meters and is Yangzhou’s most iconic historic thoroughfare. Today, the street is lined with shops, making it a perfect spot for tourists who want to stroll, shop, and pick up some local specialties.