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Nantong City is a prefecture-level city under the jurisdiction of Jiangsu Province, China. It borders the Yellow Sea to the east and the Yangtze River to the south. Known as the "Gateway to the River and the Sea", it is a transshipment hub for materials entering and leaving the Yangtze River Basin and an important port city in the Yangtze River Delta region.
Strolling around Nantong, you'll find museums scattered across every street corner, such as the City Museum, the Abacus Museum, the Indigo Museum, the Textile Museum, the Kite Museum @ Nantong Kite Museum, the Folk Art Museum, the Nantong Museum, etc.
Nantong has four distinct seasons and a mild climate, with relatively short spring and autumn seasons.
Nantong Langshan Scenic Area
Located on the north bank of the Yangtze River, six kilometers south of Nantong City, the Five Mountains comprise Junshan, Jianshan, Langshan, Ma'anshan, and Huangnishan, covering a total area of 11.27 square kilometers. Rising majestically from the vast Jianghai Plain, the Five Mountains offer a picturesque and natural beauty, resembling five green jades set along the Yangtze River. This perfect combination of "the premier river and mountain" earns it the reputation of a "natural water and rock bonsai."
Recommended play time: 1-2 days
Nantong is one of Jiangsu's oldest cities, historically significant for its role in the silk industry and as a major port on the Yangtze River. The city has a rich cultural heritage, especially known for its textiles, crafts, and historical landmarks, such as the Tongzhou Canal.
Nantong is located in eastern Jiangsu Province, along the Yangtze River. It is accessible by high-speed rail, bus, and taxi from major cities like Shanghai (about 2 hours by train). In the city, taxis and buses are the most convenient modes of transport.
Most attractions in Nantong, including museums and parks, are open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant.
Entrance fees for popular attractions in Nantong vary. For example, Nantong Museum charges around 20 CNY, while the Safari Park may charge 100 CNY or more. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and some attractions also offer online booking options through their official websites or apps.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak travel seasons (such as Chinese New Year or national holidays). It is advisable to book tickets 1-2 days in advance during busy times.
A visit to Nantong can take a day to explore its main attractions like the Nantong Museum, Langshan Mountain, and the riverfront. For a more leisurely experience with a focus on nature and local culture, a 2-day trip is recommended.
Guided tours are available at major attractions like Nantong Museum and Langshan Mountain. Tours are typically conducted in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may be available on request.
A typical itinerary could start with a visit to Nantong Museum, followed by a walk along the Yangtze River. Then, head to Langshan Mountain for a hike and finish the day at the Nantong Forest Safari Park. This plan can be adjusted based on your interests and time constraints.
While Nantong is mainly a daytime destination, the city does have occasional light shows or cultural performances during special events. However, night visits to specific sites like Langshan Mountain are not common.
Nantong can be crowded during public holidays and weekends. For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays or in the off-season (winter or late autumn). Early mornings are also less crowded for popular spots like the riverfront and Langshan Mountain.
Most major attractions in Nantong, including the Nantong Museum and Yangtze River promenade, are accessible to elderly visitors and children. Langshan Mountain and some other nature spots may have limited accessibility due to steep terrain.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted in Nantong, especially in tourist areas. However, it’s recommended to carry some cash as well, especially when visiting local markets or smaller establishments that may not accept mobile payments.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in many local restaurants in Nantong, particularly in larger dining establishments. Halal food options are more limited but may be available in certain regions with a Muslim population.
Souvenir shops in Nantong sell a range of local handicrafts, including silk products, textiles, and embroidered goods. Local snacks and tea are also popular items to bring home.
