Zaocha, an early morning meal akin to breakfast, epitomizes the slow pace of life in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province. The city's North Moat recently unveiled a splendid boat tour, offering the dual pleasures of exquisite zaocha and breathtaking scenery.

Classic Yangzhou breakfast sets are laid out on a table. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj] 

On the tranquil waters of the North Moat, a sightseeing boat beckons visitors with two quintessential Yangzhou breakfast sets. The first is Lyuyangchun tea paired with dried bean curd slices and ginger shreds, while the second is delicate shrimp roe noodles accompanied by a nutritious poached egg and fresh fruit.

Freshly steamed buns. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

Beyond the classic sets, the boat also harbors a treasure trove of pastries, including three-diced steamed buns, jade-colored steamed buns with vegetable stuffings, crescent-shaped soup dumplings, and glutinous shaomai, a traditional Chinese dumpling with a thick dough top.

Shigong Ancestral Hall. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]

As visitors' taste buds dance, their eyes can take in the breathtaking scenery.

The North Moat's banks cradle a number of Yangzhou's historical gems: Tianning Temple, a renovated ruin recalling the city's ancient splendor and prosperity; Shigong Ancestral Hall, one of the most renowned places to admire ancient ginkgo leaves; and Geyuan Garden, one of the most authentic classical Chinese gardens.