Ningbo: A Dreamlike Journey Where the Charm of Jiangnan Meets Modern Prosperity

Hey everyone! Today I absolutely have to share this amazing city with you – Ningbo! It possesses both the gentle charm of a Jiangnan water town and the vibrant energy of a modern metropolis, making it an absolute must-visit for travelers. Save this guide and let's embark on a fantastic Ningbo adventure together! ✨ Preparation ● Documents: ID card, student ID (don't forget if you have discounts). ● Clothing: Ningbo's climate is changeable, so pack according to the season. In spring and autumn, bring a few long-sleeved jackets; in summer, be sure to protect yourself from the sun and bring lightweight, breathable clothing; in winter, bring a thick down jacket. ● Other: Sunscreen, umbrella, charger, camera, etc. Transportation Guide ● External Transportation: Ningbo has an airport and a train station, making transportation very convenient. Choose the appropriate mode of transport based on your location. ● Internal Transportation ○ Public Transportation: Public transportation has extensive coverage and is affordable, making it a great option for getting around. ○ Subway: Ningbo currently has multiple subway lines, offering convenient and fast access to various attractions. ○ Taxi/Ride-hailing: Transportation is relatively flexible, but traffic jams may occur during peak hours. Food Recommendations ● Ningbo Tangyuan (Sweet Rice Balls): This is a signature Ningbo delicacy. The soft, chewy outer layer encases a sweet filling; one bite is pure bliss! We recommend trying authentic Ningbo Tangyuan at Gangyagou. ● Red Roe Pickled Crab: Salty, fresh, and tender, with fiery red roe, this is a traditional Ningbo dish. Fresh crab is marinated, resulting in a unique flavor. Seafood lovers shouldn't miss it. ● Youzanzi (Fried Dough Sticks): Available in sweet and savory flavors, these are crispy and delicious, becoming more fragrant with each chew. You can find delicious Youzanzi in Nantang Old Street. ● Ningbo Roasted Vegetables: Made primarily with green vegetables, seasoned with soy sauce and other condiments, and roasted until bright red in color and with a delicious flavor. Travel Guide Day 1: The Old Bund - Catholic Church - Sanjiang Estuary ● The Old Bund: One of the earliest Bunds in China, predating Shanghai's Bund by 20 years. Its European-style architecture exudes exotic charm. Browse unique shops, sample local delicacies, and experience the fusion of Ningbo's history and modernity. ● The Catholic Church: A typical Gothic building, solemn and majestic. Exquisite architectural carvings and stained glass windows make you feel as if you're in Europe. The surrounding lawns and squares are also great for taking photos. ● Sanjiang Estuary: The confluence of the Yaojiang, Fenghuajiang, and Yongjiang rivers, and the city center of Ningbo. The Sanjiang Estuary is brilliantly lit at night, offering a beautiful night view. Take a boat trip to admire the scenery along both banks of the three rivers. Day 2: Tianyi Pavilion - Nantang Old Street ● Tianyi Pavilion: China's oldest existing private library, rich in cultural heritage. The buildings within the pavilion are simple and elegant, and the garden landscape is beautiful. Here, you can experience the elegance and love of knowledge of ancient literati. ● Nantang Old Street: Full of Ningbo's traditional charm, the street is lined with antique buildings and various snacks and specialty shops. You can enjoy delicious food while admiring the scenery of the old street and experiencing Ningbo's everyday life. Day 3: Dongqian Lake ● Dongqian Lake: One of the largest freshwater lakes in Zhejiang Province, it is known as having "the scenery of West Lake and the grandeur of Taihu Lake". You can rent a bicycle and ride along the lake to enjoy the scenery; or take a boat tour to visit the islands in the lake. There are also many farmhouses around Dongqian Lake where you can taste fresh lake delicacies and farm-style dishes. Accommodation Recommendations ● Near the Old Bund: Convenient transportation, close to many attractions, and you can enjoy beautiful night views. There are hotels and guesthouses of various price ranges to choose from in the surrounding area. ● Near Tianyi Square: Ningbo's commercial center, convenient for shopping and dining. There are also many accommodation options to meet different needs. My darlings, Ningbo's beautiful scenery and delicious food are waiting for you to explore. Pack your bags and embark on this unforgettable Ningbo trip! 🎉 If you have any other questions, feel free to leave a comment below.