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The Mingling section of the Ninghang Ancient Road was one of the main official roads from Nanjing to Hangzhou in ancient times. There are many stories circulating here, especially the legend of Liu Xiu's footprints on the mountain, which is well-known to local people. The road is 15 miles long, and the "Liu Xiu Diving Pond" on the mountainside is a wonder with a long history and is a unique sight. Mingling Mountain has magnificent peaks and dense bamboo forests. The bamboos cultivated in the 1960s are tall and green, with the largest diameter of 1.6 feet. It is a nationally renowned bamboo experimental mountain.
A vast sea of bamboo dances gracefully, its peaks, ridges, and ridges rolling and towering, brimming with springs year-round. Located in the mountainous area of southern Yixing, at the junction of Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Anhui provinces, the Yixing Bamboo Sea stretches over 800 miles across these three provinces. Tens of thousands of acres of lush bamboo undulate with the mountainside, resembling rolling waves and an endless stream. Known as the "Chinese Bamboo Sea," it represents my country's bamboo landscape, customs, and culture.
The best time is from April to October, when the bamboo sea is most lush in summer.
The hike takes about 5 hours
free
All day
The Ninghang Ancient Road, located between Ningbo and Hangzhou, is an important historical route dating back to the Tang Dynasty. It served as a key trade and cultural corridor, connecting the coastal areas with the inland regions. Today, it is a scenic route that offers insight into ancient travel methods, local culture, and traditional architecture.
The Ninghang Ancient Road is located in the Wuxi region of Jiangsu Province. It can be accessed via taxi or by private car, as well as public buses from Wuxi city. The nearest metro station is a short taxi ride away, and walking along parts of the ancient road is a great way to explore its beauty.
The Ninghang Ancient Road is open year-round and is not restricted by specific opening hours. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer can be hot, and winter can be cold, so it's best to avoid these extremes.
There is no entrance fee for walking or exploring the Ninghang Ancient Road itself. However, certain attractions or landmarks along the road may have entry fees, typically ranging from 10 to 50 RMB. Tickets can be bought on-site at these locations or sometimes online in advance for special tours.
For the general walking route, tickets are not required. However, if you plan to visit specific attractions along the way, it is recommended to book tickets a few days in advance, especially for guided tours or during peak tourist seasons.
Exploring the Ninghang Ancient Road fully will take approximately 3-5 hours, depending on how many stops you make to explore the landmarks, take photos, and enjoy local food. If you plan to visit nearby attractions, you may need an entire day.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some operators may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are also available at specific attractions along the road. It is recommended to check in advance if you require a guide in English.
Start your journey at the eastern end of the road and walk westward to experience the historic architecture and cultural landmarks along the way. Take time to visit the temples and rest at scenic spots. Alternatively, you can take a bicycle ride along the road for a quicker and more expansive exploration.
Night visits are not a common option on the Ninghang Ancient Road, as the attractions along the route are generally better enjoyed during daylight hours. However, some villages and towns along the route may have occasional evening cultural performances or festivals.
The Ninghang Ancient Road can be moderately crowded on weekends and public holidays, especially during the peak tourist seasons in spring and autumn. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit during weekdays or in the off-season (winter or early spring).
Facilities along the Ninghang Ancient Road include public toilets, food stalls, and small shops selling local goods. Rest areas are also available at certain points, especially near popular attractions and scenic spots.
While the Ninghang Ancient Road is generally accessible, certain sections may have uneven paths or steep inclines that may pose challenges for elderly or disabled visitors. It is recommended to check specific routes in advance if accessibility is a concern.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in the area. Some smaller vendors may still prefer cash, so it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for local purchases along the road.
There are several local eateries and restaurants along the Ninghang Ancient Road, offering traditional Wuxi cuisine such as Wuxi-style ribs and steamed dumplings. Cafes are less common, but small tea houses provide a nice stop to relax and enjoy the local tea.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most restaurants, particularly in larger towns. Halal food options may be limited, but some restaurants may cater to special dietary needs if requested in advance.
There are a variety of accommodation options near the Ninghang Ancient Road, ranging from budget hotels to more luxurious resorts. Wuxi city center offers several comfortable hotels, and rural guesthouses provide a more immersive experience in the countryside.
Yes, there are souvenir shops along the Ninghang Ancient Road. Popular souvenirs include local handicrafts, silk products, tea, and Wuxi-style artwork.
After visiting the Ninghang Ancient Road, you can take a bus or taxi to Wuxi city center for further exploration. Wuxi also has a high-speed train station and is well connected to other major cities in Jiangsu Province and beyond.
