A Trip to Nantong | Unlock Hidden Gem Travel Destinations

| Unlock Hidden Gem Travel Destinations. In the southeast of Jiangsu, there is a city gently embraced by rivers and seas—Nantong. It hides many lesser-known treasures, each with its own unique charm. This holiday, follow this guide to start an exclusive Nantong exploration journey just for you! 🌅【Langshan Scenic Area】 📍Address: Chengshan Road, Chongchuan District 💰Tickets: Off-season 50 RMB, peak season 70 RMB (half price for students) This is the foremost of the eight minor Buddhist mountains and the site of Bodhisattva Dashizhi’s sanctuary. Although only 106.94 meters high, it inspires awe. Climb to the summit at dawn to see the Yangtze River faintly visible through the mist, with five mountains rolling in the distance, forming a natural landscape painting. The flying eaves of Guangjiao Zen Temple peek through the greenery, and the bell of Zhiyun Pagoda rings softly, cleansing the soul. At the foot of the mountain, Beilu Garden’s sheer cliffs showcase nature’s craftsmanship; at Longzhao Rock, waves crash against the shore, making it a perfect photo spot. After exploring, head to Sanxian Street at the foot of the mountain for a bowl of delicious pufferfish soup, letting your taste buds indulge in this river delicacy feast. 🌊【Haohe Scenic Area】 📍Address: Along the banks of Haohe River (recommended entrance: Haoxi Shuyuan) 💰Tickets: Free (night cruise ticket 60 RMB) Haohe River is like Nantong’s “city necklace,” linking the city’s history and beauty. During the day, take a leisurely ride on a painted boat, passing the reflection of Wenfeng Tower and feeling the warmth of the sun. At night, when the lights come on, Haohe transforms into a dreamlike world, with shimmering water reflecting ancient buildings on the shore. The blue printed fabric projection at the Shen Xiu Museum on the wall seems to transport you back to Zhang Jian’s industrial era. Stroll along the 18-kilometer free waterfront trail to enjoy the scenery and see locals living leisurely, full of everyday life charm. On Wednesday and Saturday nights, there is an immersive light and shadow show—remember to grab front-row seats early for a visual feast. 🏛️【Nantong Museum】 📍Address: 19 Haonan Road, Chongchuan District 💰Tickets: Free (closed on Mondays) As China’s first self-established museum, Nantong Museum carries profound historical and cultural heritage. The new building designed by Wu Liangyong is modern, while the old Haonan residence preserves the original appearance of Zhang Jian’s former home. Here, you can see the ancient meteorological instrument in the central hall and appreciate the giant whale bones in the north hall, marveling at nature’s wonders. If you bring children, don’t miss the chance to make traditional New Year prints by hand, allowing them to experience the charm of traditional culture through practice. The 300-year-old ginkgo tree in the backyard turns golden in autumn, covering the ground with breathtaking beauty. 🌳【Shuihui Garden】 📍Address: 299 Bixia Road, Rugao City 💰Tickets: 50 RMB (free for Rugao residents) “Painting is knowledge.” True to its name, Shuihui Garden values water and reflections, representing an outstanding example of Jiangnan gardens. It was once the retreat of Jiangnan scholar Mao Peijiang and Qinhuai beauty Dong Xiaowan, with romantic love stories hidden everywhere. The red bean tree in front of Hanbi Hall blooms year after year, witnessing this timeless love story; the carved window frames of Jingge seem to still hold their whispers. The “Xuanliu Peak” rockery restored by Professor Chen Congzhou is a textbook example of Jiangnan rock stacking, with every detail showcasing exquisite garden art. On rainy days, stroll with an umbrella by the washing basin pool; the misty Shuihui Garden offers a poetic atmosphere. 🏠【Zhang Jian’s Hometown】 📍Address: Zhuangyuan Street, Changle Town, Haimen District 💰Package: 80 RMB (includes Memorial Hall + Distillery Experience) In Zhang Jian’s hometown, you can touch the soul of “China’s first modern city.” The Zhuangyuan Lake in the memorial hall reflects the bronze statue of Zhang Jian, as if you can see his determined figure saving the nation through industry. The old cellar pool of Yisheng Distillery is filled with the aroma of wine. Their Yinchen wine is brewed using intangible cultural heritage techniques, with a unique and charming herbal fragrance. Don’t forget to buy a bottle as a travel souvenir. The Youth Study Center’s interactive screen recreates the roaring textile machines of Dasheng Spinning Mill, helping you deeply understand Zhang Jian’s philosophy of “father educates, mother industrializes.” 🦒【Nantong Forest Wildlife Zoo】 📍Address: 299 Tongliu Road, Chongchuan District 💰Tickets: About 180 RMB This is a joyful home for animals, rich in wildlife resources. You can drive yourself or take a small train through the park to see lions, tigers, zebras, and other rare animals up close. Watch them stroll leisurely or playfully chase each other, experiencing the joy of close contact with animals. The park also offers exciting animal shows and educational activities, making it an excellent choice for family trips. 🏖️【Qidong Evergrande Venice】 📍Address: No. 1 Evergrande Road, Yinyang Town A European-style coastal resort with charming beaches and large water entertainment facilities. The artificial beach is fine and soft, and the sea water is crystal clear. Here, you can fully enjoy the sun and sand and try thrilling water activities like surfing and windsurfing. The surrounding area has various high-end hotels and commercial facilities to meet your dining, shopping, and entertainment needs, making it a great place for vacation and relaxation. 🌊【Golden Beach Scenic Area】 📍Address: East side of Yinyang Town, Qidong City 💰Tickets: Free (additional charges for amusement activities) Golden Beach is an important wetland at the Yangtze River estuary, with vast tidal flats. At low tide, join fishermen to gather seafood and dig for clams while dancing the “sea disco,” feeling the joy of harvest. It is also an excellent spot to watch sunrises and sunsets. In the morning, watch the sun slowly rise from the sea, dyeing the sky and ocean golden; in the evening, stroll on the beach with the sunset glow, enjoying peaceful and beautiful moments. 🍜【Food Recommendations】 - Nantong Clam Cake: Made with fresh clam meat mixed with flour and pan-fried, the outer crust is golden and crispy, while the clam meat is tender and juicy with a fragrant aroma. - Rugao Dong Sugar: Said to be made by Dong Xiaowan, the sugar is flat and rectangular with clear layers, crispy on the bite, rich in sesame aroma and malt sweetness, sweet but not greasy. - Nantong Gangpan: Similar to a baked biscuit, diamond-shaped and named after the broken pieces of a water jar. The crust is crispy, filled with scallions, sesame, and other fillings, savory and delicious. - Braised Haimen Mutton: Made from high-quality Haimen goat meat, braised to a bright red color. The meat is tender, fatty but not greasy, with a rich flavor from unique seasonings. - Nantong Drunken Shrimp: Made with fresh live shrimp marinated in wine and seasonings. The shrimp meat is tender and smooth, with a strong wine aroma and unique taste. 🚗【Transportation Guide】 - Airplane: Nantong Xingdong International Airport, with shuttle buses to the city center. - Train: Both Nantong Station and Nantong West Station have high-speed rail stops; Nantong Station is closer to the city center. - Bus: Nantong has multiple long-distance bus stations; if there is a direct route from your departure city, taking a long-distance bus is convenient. - Self-driving: Convenient for nearby cities; about 2 hours from Shanghai, about 1.5 hours from Suzhou. - City transportation: Most bus fares are 2 RMB, with some route variations; taxi starting fare is 10 RMB. 🏨【Accommodation Recommendations】 - For a taste of historical and cultural charm: stay in Chongchuan District, close to Nantong Museum and Langshan Scenic Area, convenient for travel with many nearby attractions. - For a modern vibe and commercial atmosphere: stay in the Development Zone, where hotels are well-equipped and dining and shopping are convenient. Nantong, a city full of charm, offers both historical and cultural depth, beautiful natural scenery, and mouthwatering cuisine. Pack your bags and start a unique journey here—you will surely fall in love with it! #NantongTravelGuide #HiddenTravelDestinations #CityOfRiversAndSeas #TravelCheckIn