Discovering Nantong: The Dazzling Pearl by the Yangtze River

Nantong, often referred to as "Suzhou's Sister City," is a vibrant riverside metropolis perched on the northern bank of the Yangtze River estuary. Renowned as a national education hub with prestigious universities and research institutions, the city also thrives with dynamic innovation. As a frequent visitor to Nantong, I always recommend three must-see attractions for first-timers: Hao River Scenic Area, Wolf Mountain, and Nantong Museum. But during this year's Spring Festival exploration, I discovered newer, family-friendly landmarks that are gaining popularity. Nantong Forest Safari Park and Sendi Ice & Snow World offer unique immersive experiences, creating unforgettable joy for families and enriching the city's diverse tourism appeal. The three most breathtaking experiences of this trip: the "Qianlong's Holiday" special exhibition at Nantong Museum, the international circus performance at the safari park, and the intangible cultural heritage parade in the city center. Each activity shone like a meticulously crafted gem, adding unique brilliance to the journey. Though a classic hotel, Wenfeng Hotel where I stayed boasts enchanting garden-style landscapes. Its tree-shaded courtyards transport guests to a Jiangnan-style garden, where sipping tea while strolling under the eaves becomes a slow-living experience worth traveling for. This urban oasis of tranquility is precisely what modern travelers cherish most. Nantong enjoys a golden location at the confluence of river and sea, integrating highway, railway, and waterway hubs. The Sutong Yangtze River Bridge connects it seamlessly to Suzhou, while the Chongqi Bridge forms an express route to Shanghai. With just a 1.5-hour drive from Suzhou (as tested), such convenient transportation makes this city—blending business and leisure—even more appealing.