A True Chinese Experience 🏮🎎

Cicheng Ancient Town is located in the Jiangbei district of Ningbo, and is a walled city dating from the 8th century when it was renowned for its handicrafts. A couple of years ago, the government of Ningbo invested in its revival and nowadays it has become a popular attraction to enjoy! Cicheng is also known as the “most charming ancient town south of the Yangtze River” for its beautiful scenery, city walls and abundant cultural relics. Because of its long history and rich culture, there are many historic sites standing in the small town. Recommended places to visit include Enrong House and the Xiang’s Residence. The streets are very well preserved and beautifully decorated with lanterns! 🚕 Didi/taxi just type in “Cicheng Ancient Town” 🚎 Public bus Line 337 🚄 Ride the subway Line 4 all the way to Cicheng! Similar to the typical pedestrian streets in several cities around China, Cicheng provides the same feeling. On both sides of the street you will find several shops with a wide range of things to look at, buy, eat, and drink. There are both fancy and simple restaurants, as well as snack shops throughout the streets. One very fun thing to do is dress up in traditional Chinese clothes, hanfu, at a local dress shop that rents the outfits and allows you to walk around the area and take pictures! The ladies in the store can also prep your hair in different styles, it all depends on which era the hanfu you choose corresponds to. There are options for men, women, and children too. 💰Renting the clothes will cost you around ¥100. The Jiangbei area, and even more specifically in Cicheng, is also known for its delicacies. When visiting Cicheng, sticky rice cake is a must-try! 🌟 During my time there, I visited a restaurant that taught us about the entire process - from planting the seeds, to harvesting the grains, until the rice is prepped and ready to be mixed with oil and stuffing using our bear hands! Afterwards we got to taste what we made and were also served delicious traditional Chinese foods such as soup buns, crayfish, wontons and Ningbo-style pastries. 🤸🏻‍♀️ Enjoy Cicheng! #historicplaces #staycation #ningbo #food #culture