Ningbo Xikou Travel Guide!

Ningbo Xikou Town is the hometown of Chiang Kai-shek and a national scenic area, featuring a blend of historical culture and natural landscapes. Here’s a detailed travel guide to help you explore efficiently: --- **1. Top Attractions** 1. **Chiang Family Former Residence Complex** (Combo ticket: ~¥120) - **Fenggao House**: Ancestral home of the Chiang family, showcasing family history. - **Wenchang Pavilion**: Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling’s villa with stunning views over the Shanxi River. - **Western-Style House**: Former residence of Chiang Ching-kuo, featuring his manuscripts. - **Yutai Salt Shop**: Chiang Kai-shek’s birthplace, originally a family salt business. 2. **Xuedou Mountain Scenic Area** (Combo ticket: ~¥150, includes shuttle) - **Qianzhangyan Waterfall**: 186-meter drop, panoramic views via cable car. - **Miaogao Terrace**: Chiang Kai-shek’s summer villa overlooking Tingxia Lake. - **Sanyin Pool**: Three-tiered waterfall with a serene hiking trail. - **Xuedou Temple**: Ancient Buddhist temple with the world’s tallest outdoor Maitreya Buddha statue (57m). 3. **Other Highlights** - **Chiang’s Mother Tomb**: A solemn memorial site. - **Shanxi River Rafting** (summer only): Bamboo rafting through idyllic landscapes. --- **2. Transportation** - **Self-drive**: From Ningbo downtown → Yongjin Expressway Xikou exit (~40 mins). - **Public Transport**: - Take Bus 988 from Ningbo South Station to Xikou (~1.5 hrs). - From Ningbo Railway Station, take a train to Fenghua Station, then transfer to Bus 230 to Xikou. --- **3. Itinerary Suggestions** - **Day Trip**: Chiang Family Former Residence (AM) → Xuedou Mountain (PM, focus on Sanyin Pool + Qianzhangyan). - **2-Day Trip**: - **Day 1**: Chiang Family Former Residence + Chiang’s Mother Tomb + Shanxi River stroll. - **Day 2**: Full day at Xuedou Mountain (use shuttle to save energy). --- **4. Food Recommendations** - **Xikou Layered Cake**: Crispy and savory, try Jiang’s Longmen brand. - **Taro Dishes**: Fenghua specialty, e.g., taro with pork ribs. - **Beef Dry Noodles**: Local noodle dish with rich broth. - **Restaurant Pick**: Xikou Republican Courtyard (retro vibe, local snacks). --- **5. Accommodation** - **Luxury**: Xikou Silver Phoenix Resort (near Xuedou Mountain). - **Budget**: Boutique B&Bs in town (e.g., Moqi·Xikou, close to Chiang’s Former Residence). - **Unique Stay**: Xufuyan RV Camp at Xuedou Mountain (family-friendly). --- **6. Tips** 1. Wear comfortable shoes for Xuedou Mountain hikes; bring mosquito repellent in summer. 2. Keep tickets handy for entry to buildings in the Chiang Residence complex. 3. Avoid national holidays (e.g., Oct 1-7) for fewer crowds. --- **7. Nearby Extensions** - **With extra time**: - **Siming Mountain**: Scenic drive, stunning autumn foliage. - **Tengtou Village** (30-min drive): Eco-village, great for families. --- Xikou blends Republic-era history with natural beauty. Slow down to savor the tranquility and culture along the Shanxi River.