Yanjiaqiao villagers perform Xiju Opera at an outdoor theater in the village. [Photo/WeChat account: ntwgx6]

Opera enthusiasts can follow a one-day travel route to enjoy Xiju Opera in Wuxi this summer.

The travel route starts from Yanjiaqiao village, the birthplace of Xiju Opera. The village was home to Yan Tingchu, the first Xiju Opera writer, as well as Qing Bao, the first female Tanhuang performer in the history of Xiju Opera.

The village still preserves outdoor theaters where local farmers gather to perform Xiju Opera after a busy day.

Tourists can visit the Xiju Opera Museum for the ancient photos and articles related to Xiju Opera or try performing Xiju Opera with Yanjiaqiao villagers at outdoor theaters.

A Xiju Opera performance is staged on a boat in ancient Dangkou town. [Photo/WeChat account: ntwgx6]

The next stop is ancient Dangkou town, where various cultural activities, especially Xiju Opera performances, are staged on holidays and weekends.

Wandering in Dangkou town, tourists will stand a good chance of encountering Xiju Opera performers performing on a boat.

A Xiju Opera artist performs at the Xiju Opera Art Center. [Photo/WeChat account: ntwgx6]

The Xiju Opera Art Center, which is built on the former Xiju Opera Museum, is the next stop. The art center exhibits Xiju Opera-related cultural and creative products, including bookmarks and clay figurines, on its first floor.

The second floor houses a 100-square meter stage where Xiju Opera ethusiasts and renowned Xiju Opera performers stage performances or deliver lectures on Xiju Opera.

Ancient Meili town at night. [Photo/WeChat account: ntwgx6]

After night falls, the final stop is ancient Meili town, which becomes a lot livelier at night as thousands of colorful lights illuminate the town and cultural performances are staged.

Tourists can also enjoy Xiju Opera performances at Wuxi attractions such as Donglin Academy, Jichang Garden, and Xiaolou Lane.