Ningbo

What are the most recommended things to do in Ningbo?

  • Visit Tianyi Pavilion Museum, China's oldest private library, established in 1561, housing over 300,000 volumes of ancient texts.
  • Explore Ningbo Old Bund, a historic waterfront area featuring colonial-era architecture, vibrant nightlife, and dining options.
  • Relax at Dongqian Lake, a scenic freshwater lake offering boating, hiking, and cultural sites like Xiayu Temple and Putuo Cave.
  • Discover Ningbo Museum, an architectural marvel showcasing the city's history, culture, and maritime heritage.
  • Wander through Ningbo Chenghuang Temple Market, a bustling area with traditional architecture, shops, and local snacks.
  • Visit Tiantong Temple, a significant Buddhist site surrounded by lush forests, offering a peaceful retreat.
  • Explore Xikou Xuedou Scenic Area, known for its natural beauty and cultural landmarks, including the Former Residence of Chiang Kai-shek.
  • Stroll through Tianyi Square, a modern shopping and entertainment hub with fountains and light displays.

Introducing Ningbo


Ningbo, a famous coastal city in the southern Yangtze River Delta, is adjacent to Shaoxing. Ningbo has a long history and is the birthplace of the Hemudu Culture, a civilization with a history of over 7,000 years.

Ningbo has many cultural relics. In addition to Xikou Town, which is well-known across China, Hong Kong and Taiwan, its unique geographical location, backed by Siming Mountain to the west and facing the East China Sea to the east, has endowed Ningbo with unique natural scenery. In addition, the natural scenery includes Songlan Mountain, Jiufeng Mountain, Jiulong Lake, Wulongtan, Nanxi Hot Spring, Yeheqiu Scenic Area, and the Grand Canyon of East Zhejiang, which are also famous ecological tourist attractions in Ningbo.

Among them, Fenghua Xikou Scenic Area has the most beautiful scenery, the largest density and is the most popular.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Huaao Island

Located at the mouth of Sanmen Bay in southern Xiangshan County, Ningbo, close to Taizhou City, Xiangshan Hua'ao Island is one of the world's three largest volcanic rock formations. Its majestic landscape, numerous bays, steep cliffs, and well-developed columnar joints have earned it the nickname "Stone Forest." The towering rock formations, particularly the sea-eroded landscape, are a unique sight in Southeast China. Wanzhu Cliff is an ideal location for slow-motion photography.

East Zhejiang Grand Canyon

Located in Ninghai County, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, it is an ecological scenic spot based on natural landscape, with the essence of Taoism and Taiyue culture as its connotation, and featuring green mountains and waters, strange peaks and rocks, streams and waterfalls, primeval forests and modern entertainment.

Xikou Town

Located in Fenghua City, Zhejiang Province, China, it is the birthplace of Chiang Kai-shek and the hometown of Chiang Kai-shek and his son. It is backed by Wuling Mountain in the east, bordered by Shanxi River in the south, and faces Xuedou Mountain in the north. It is surrounded by water and mountains and has beautiful scenery.

Dongqian Lake Scenic Tourist Area

Zhejiang's largest freshwater lake, comprising Guzi Lake, Mei Lake, and Wai Lake, is four times the size of Hangzhou's West Lake and is arguably the "First Lake on China's Coast." Dongqian Lake boasts enchanting scenery, surrounded by mountains and lush greenery, with a winding shoreline and a backdrop of mountains and water. These unique "Nine Scenic Spots" of Qianhu Lake are formed, featuring clear, turquoise waters and vast, misty waves. The scenery is truly breathtaking, captivating, and unforgettable. This vibrant region boasts a rich history, a vibrant culture, and a vibrant cultural landscape.


Recommended play time: 1-3 days


Most Popular FAQs for Ningbo

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Ningbo is one of China's oldest cities, with a history dating back over 7,000 years. It was a significant port during the Tang and Song dynasties and played a crucial role in maritime trade. Today, it is a thriving economic center in Zhejiang Province, blending rich cultural heritage with modern development.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Ningbo is located in eastern Zhejiang Province, China. It is accessible by high-speed train from major cities like Shanghai (approximately 2 hours) and Hangzhou (about 1 hour). The city has an extensive public transportation network, including metro lines, buses, and taxis. Walking is a convenient option for exploring downtown areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Ningbo are open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is relatively cool.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary by attraction. For example, Tianyi Pavilion Museum charges approximately CNY 30, while Ningbo Chenghuang Temple Market is free to enter. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through official websites and travel platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is recommended for popular attractions, especially during peak tourist seasons. It's advisable to book at least 1-2 days in advance through official websites or reputable travel platforms.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Ningbo's main attractions, allocate 2 to 3 days. This allows time to visit key sites like Tianyi Pavilion, Dongqian Lake, and Ningbo Museum, as well as to enjoy the local cuisine and shopping areas.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Tianyi Pavilion Museum
  • Ningbo Old Bund
  • Dongqian Lake
  • Ningbo Museum
  • Ningbo Chenghuang Temple Market

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours and audio guides are available at most major attractions. English-speaking guides may be limited, so it's advisable to check availability in advance. Some attractions offer audio guides in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Dongqian Lake: Scenic lake views with surrounding mountains.
  • Tiantong Temple: Panoramic views from the temple grounds.
  • Ningbo Old Bund: Waterfront views with colonial-era architecture.
  • Tianyi Pavilion Museum: Picturesque garden settings.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A suggested itinerary includes visiting Tianyi Pavilion Museum in the morning, exploring Ningbo Old Bund for lunch and shopping, spending the afternoon at Dongqian Lake, and concluding the day with a visit to Ningbo Museum. This route offers a balance of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes, some attractions like Ningbo Old Bund and Tianyi Square feature light displays in the evening. Night tours are also available, offering a different perspective of the city's landmarks illuminated at night.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Weekdays, especially Tuesday through Thursday, tend to be less crowded. Early mornings and late afternoons are also quieter times to visit popular attractions.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most major attractions are equipped with public toilets, rest areas, and shops selling snacks and souvenirs. Some sites also have restaurants offering local cuisine.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many attractions in Ningbo are accessible to elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and elevators available at most sites. However, some natural areas like Dongqian Lake may have uneven terrain, so it's advisable to check accessibility in advance.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) and credit/debit cards are widely accepted in Ningbo. Cash is less commonly used but can be handy in smaller shops or rural areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

  • Ganesha Indian Restaurant: Known for authentic Indian cuisine and home delivery service within an 8 km radius.
  • Amore: An Italian restaurant offering authentic flavors and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Akitaya: A Japanese restaurant near Nantang Old Street, offering traditional dishes and sake.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, Ningbo offers a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options. Ganesha Indian Restaurant is a popular choice for halal cuisine, while many local restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Pan Pacific Ningbo: A luxury hotel offering comfortable accommodations and amenities.
  • Hyatt Centric Lakeside Ningbo: A modern hotel with lakeside views and convenient access to attractions.
  • Local guesthouses and boutique hotels are also available near popular sites like Dongqian Lake and Ningbo Old Bund.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Tiantong Temple: A significant Buddhist site surrounded by lush forests.
  • Xikou Xuedou Scenic Area: Known for its natural beauty and cultural landmarks, including the Former Residence of Chiang Kai-shek.
  • Ningbo Cicheng Ancient Town: A well-preserved ancient town with traditional architecture and cultural sites.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops are available at major attractions. Typical souvenirs include Ningbo tea, local handicrafts, silk products, and traditional Chinese calligraphy items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

High-speed trains are available from Ningbo to major cities like Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Beijing. The Ningbo Lishe International Airport offers domestic and limited international flights. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also convenient for local travel.