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Xuzhou is the largest city in northern Jiangsu. It is located in the northwest of Jiangsu Province. The Grand Canal passes through it. The Longhai and Beijing-Shanghai railway lines intersect in Xuzhou. It is known as the "crossroads of five provinces."
Xuzhou boasts rich tourism resources and numerous scenic spots and historical sites. Over 4,000 years of civilization have left behind a wealth of cultural heritage and historical sites, like a dazzling galaxy hanging in the vast expanse of history. Among Xuzhou's tourist attractions, the Han Dynasty culture, represented by the "Three Wonders of the Han Dynasty"—Han Terracotta Warriors, Han Tombs, and Han Stone Reliefs—is particularly striking.
As the birthplace of Han culture, Xuzhou hosts the Han Culture International Tourism Festival in early October each year. Xuzhou has been a battleground for military strategists since ancient times, boasting the ancient Jiuli Mountain battlefield and the remnants of the Huaihai Campaign. The scenic area centered around Yunlong Mountain and Quanshan National Forest Park combines the majestic beauty of the north and the graceful beauty of the south, rivaling the beauty of Xizi and the splendor of Jiangnan, making Xuzhou a unique and outstanding scenic tourist destination.
Xuzhou has a temperate monsoon climate with distinct four seasons, no extreme heat in summer and no severe cold in winter.
Yunlong Lake
Yunlong Lake and Yunlong Mountain are landmarks of Xuzhou. Yunlong Mountain lies to the east of the lake, Zhu Mountain lies to the south, and Xiaochang Mountain and Woniu Mountain lie to the west. The vast expanse of the lake and the lush green mountains within the scenic area have attracted countless travelers throughout history. Northern Song Dynasty writer Su Shi, while serving as prefect of Xuzhou, fell in love with the lake.
Guishan Han Tomb
One of the main attractions of Guishan Scenic Area is the joint tomb of Liu Zhu, the sixth King Xiang of Chu in the Western Han Dynasty. It consists of two man-made tomb passages and fifteen burial chambers. This tomb is huge and majestic, which is rare, especially the four major mysteries that have not been solved so far.
Recommended play time: 1 day
Xuzhou is a historical city with a significant role in China's ancient history, particularly during the Han Dynasty. It is known for its archaeological sites, ancient tombs, and rich cultural heritage. The city also served as an important military and political center during various dynasties.
Xuzhou is located in the northern part of Jiangsu Province, China. It can be accessed by high-speed trains from major cities like Shanghai and Nanjing. You can also fly into Xuzhou Guanyin Airport. Within the city, taxis, buses, and walking are the main modes of transport.
The best times to visit Xuzhou are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild. Most attractions open around 8:30 AM and close by 5:00 PM.
Prices vary by attraction. For example, entry to the Xuzhou Museum is around ¥20, while the Han Stone Warrior Tombs cost about ¥50. Tickets can be bought online or at the entrance of most sites.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended for popular attractions, especially during peak tourist seasons. It’s best to book tickets 1-2 days in advance to ensure availability.
You’ll need about 2-3 days to explore Xuzhou’s main attractions, such as the museum, tombs, and parks. For a more relaxed visit, consider 1-2 days for the city center and nearby sites.
Guided tours are available in English and Mandarin at popular tourist spots like the Xuzhou Museum and Han Stone Warrior Tombs. Audio guides are also offered in some attractions, but availability may vary.
Start your day by visiting the Xuzhou Museum, then head to the Han Stone Warrior Tombs for a historical experience. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely stroll or boat ride at Yunlong Lake. Consider visiting the Western Han Dynasty Terracotta Warriors site if time allows.
Night visits and light shows are limited, but the city’s parks, such as Yunlong Lake, are particularly picturesque at night. Check local listings for special events, particularly during holidays or festivals.
Xuzhou is not typically overcrowded, but it can get busier during national holidays and the summer months. Weekdays and off-peak seasons (fall and spring) are the least crowded times to visit.
Many of Xuzhou’s attractions are accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, though some outdoor areas may have uneven paths. It’s advisable to check specific accessibility information ahead of your visit.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted in Xuzhou. Credit cards are also commonly used in larger establishments, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many local restaurants, especially those offering Chinese vegetarian dishes. Halal food can be found at specialized restaurants catering to Muslim visitors.
Souvenir shops are common in Xuzhou, offering local handicrafts such as clay figures, ancient-style artwork, and tea sets. Traditional Jiangsu silk and embroidered goods are also popular purchases.
