Lianyungang Travel Guide for March–April

March and April are ideal months to visit Lianyungang. Here is a detailed travel guide for Lianyungang in March and April: I. Itinerary Classic 3-Day Tour • Day 1: Journey to the Mythical Mountain and Sea • Morning: Huaguo Mountain (a 5A scenic area). Explore the Water Curtain Cave, Yunu Peak (the highest peak in Jiangsu), and other attractions to experience the romantic mythology of Journey to the West. • Afternoon: Yuwan Scenic Area (known as the Jiuzhaigou Valley of Jiangsu). Admire the natural scenery of Xiaolongtan Waterfall, Sanlongtan scenic overlook, and more. • Evening: Lianyungang Old Street. Experience the style of the Republic of China era and sample local delicacies such as seafood pot stickers and Banpu jelly. • Day 2: Embrace the Mountains and Sea • Morning: Yuntai Mountain by the Sea (free scenic area). Visit the Haitianyilan Viewing Platform and the cliffside walkway to enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and sea. • Afternoon: Liandao Island (a 5A scenic area). Enjoy the beaches of Dashawan and the Sumawan glass walkway. Participate in beach volleyball, sea surfing, and other water activities. • Evening: Yangshan Island. Wake up early to watch the sunrise, visit the museum, and experience the unique charm of the island. • Day 3: Cultural and Leisure Tour • Morning: Kongwang Mountain. Explore the earliest Buddhist stone carvings in China—the Moya Statues—and experience the profound history and culture. • Afternoon: Donghai Hot Spring Resort (known as the No. 1 Spring in East China). Soak in the soda springs and relax. II. Must-See Attractions • Huaguo Mountain: As the prototype for Journey to the West, Huaguo Mountain boasts unique peaks, strange rocks, and rich mythology, making it a landmark attraction in Lianyungang. • Liandao Island: The largest island in Jiangsu, with golden beaches, blue seas, and a glass walkway, it is an excellent place to enjoy the seaside scenery. • Yuntai Mountain by the Sea: The second highest peak in Jiangsu, connecting the mountains and the sea, with beautiful scenery. The cliffside walkway and the cloud-walking corridor are especially unforgettable. • Kongwang Mountain: The site of the earliest Buddhist statues in China, predating the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang by 300 years, it is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts. III. Recommended Places to View Flowers • Huaguo Mountain Scenic Area: Plum blossoms (late February to mid-March), cherry blossoms (late March to mid-April), peach blossoms (mid-to-late March to early April), and other flowers bloom in competition, making it a great place to view flowers. • Zaihaiyifang Park: From mid-to-late March to mid-April, seaside peach blossoms and plum blossoms bloom. The seaside peach forest on the east side of the beach walkway is an excellent spot for taking photos. • Cangwu Green Park: In March and April, peach blossoms, magnolias, and other flowers bloom, especially the tulip flower sea, which is intoxicating. IV. Recommended Local Cuisine • Seafood Feast: Steamed swimming crab, sand eel and tofu soup, steamed scallops with garlic, and other seafood delicacies are must-try dishes in Lianyungang. • Snack Collection: Banpu Jelly has a delicate taste and is even more delicious with mashed garlic and soy sauce. Guanyun Bean Dan is a high-protein delicacy worth trying. Small fish pancakes are crispy, savory, and also a local specialty. • Featured Drinks: Wang Shuyou Di Vinegar is brewed using an ancient method from the Qing Dynasty and is excellent for mixing with noodles. Donghai Crystal Tea is a top-grade cloud tea with a clear and refreshing aroma. V. Recommended Accommodations • Around Huaguo Mountain: Recommended B&Bs include Tianji Sumawan B&B (sea view rooms) and "Bajianfang" mountain view rooms, averaging CNY 100–200 per night, including breakfast. • Comfortable Hotels in the City: Jinjiang Inn, Hanting Hotel, and other hotels offer complete facilities and convenient transportation. • Hot Spring Resorts: Donghai Forest Hot Spring and other hot spring resorts include soda springs and are the first choice for winter wellness. VI. Precautions and Tips to Avoid Pitfalls • Transportation Suggestions: Lianyungang BRT rapid transit covers the main attractions, and scanning the code to ride is convenient and fast. Driving or chartering a car is also a good choice, but note that the attractions are scattered, and the cost of chartering a car is approx. CNY 300/day. • Sun Protection and Clothing: In summer, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and light long sleeves. In winter, you will need a thick coat and non-slip shoes. • Shopping Tips: There are many fakes in the crystal market, so it is recommended to buy from regular stores and ask for a certificate. Beware of "low-price tour" scams and give priority to officially partnered travel agencies. • Special Tips: Some attractions are greatly affected by the weather (such as Yuntai Mountain by the Sea, which is often foggy), so it is recommended to check the weather forecast in advance. During holidays, attractions such as Huaguo Mountain and Liandao Island are crowded, so it is recommended to travel during off-peak hours.