Nantang Old Street

Introducing Nantang Old Street

Outside the South Gate of Ningbo Ancient City, Ningbo Nantang Old Street is the "South Gate Three Markets", once the gathering place of old Ningbo's commerce and culture. It is listed as one of Ningbo's eight major historical districts and is also a protected area of ​​Ningbo's "Purple Line Planning".

The block has preserved more than 300 meters of traditional streets and alleys. The descendants of Yuan Xie, a famous scholar in the Song Dynasty, have lived here for generations. The existing Yuan family residential complex in the area is the largest, including residential courtyards, ancestral halls, schools, etc. Others include cultural relics such as Yongshui Bridge, Yongshan Pavilion and Guansheng Temple.

Along the way, there are almost all food and snack shops, and there are also many time-honored shops and well-known food shops, such as Gangyagou and Nantang Youzanzi. There are also many romantic cafes and teahouses on the old street.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Nantang Old Street

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

Nantang Old Street in Ningbo is a historic area that dates back to the Qing Dynasty, known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and vibrant street life. It was once a bustling trade center, connecting Ningbo to the rest of the world. Today, it serves as a cultural hub, showcasing Ningbo’s history and offering a variety of local goods and food.

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

Nantang Old Street is located in the heart of Ningbo. It can be easily accessed by taxi, public bus, or on foot from Ningbo’s city center. The nearest metro station is Ningbo East Railway Station, from which a short taxi ride will get you to the street.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Nantang Old Street is open all day, but the best time to visit is during the late morning to early evening. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, and the street is especially charming during the evening when the area is illuminated by lanterns.

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

There is no entrance fee to visit Nantang Old Street, as it is a public area. You can freely stroll through the street and enjoy the shops and attractions without needing tickets.

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

No advance booking is required for visiting Nantang Old Street, as it is a public attraction with no entry fee.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To fully explore Nantang Old Street, including visiting shops, enjoying food, and experiencing the local atmosphere, 2 to 3 hours should be sufficient. You can spend more time if you wish to explore nearby attractions or enjoy a meal in one of the local restaurants.

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

• The traditional architecture, with well-preserved Qing Dynasty buildings.
• Local temples, including the Sanjiang Temple, offering insight into the area’s spiritual history.
• Street food vendors selling Ningbo’s famous snacks and seafood.

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

Guided tours are available, and some local guides may offer their services in English. Audio guides are also available, but they may primarily be in Mandarin.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• At the entrance of the street, where you can capture the view of traditional architecture with bustling street life.
• Close to the temples, where the buildings are framed by trees and traditional lanterns.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by entering from the south gate, walk through the main street to explore the shops and food stalls, then visit the local temples. Finish your visit by walking through the nearby alleys to see quieter, lesser-known parts of the street.

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

Night visits are popular due to the street being beautifully lit up with lanterns, creating a charming atmosphere. There are no specific light shows, but the ambiance in the evening is quite special. Special tours are not common, but guided tours may be available for cultural and historical insights.

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

The street can be crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the evening on weekdays.

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

There are public toilets available along the street. Numerous food stalls and small restaurants offer local specialties, and several shops sell souvenirs, local crafts, and traditional goods.

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

The street is mostly accessible for elderly visitors and children, though the cobblestone pathways may be uneven in certain areas. Disabled access may be limited due to the traditional layout of the area, which includes stairs and narrow walkways in some parts.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at many of the small vendors, but most shops and restaurants accept mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay. Credit cards may be accepted in larger establishments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local seafood restaurants offering Ningbo specialties such as Ningbo-style fish and dumplings.
• Cafes and tea houses serving local tea and light snacks.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available in many local restaurants, particularly in tea houses. Halal food is available in some restaurants catering to Muslim customers, but options may be limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Ningbo Marriott Hotel, located a short drive from the old street, offers upscale accommodation.
• Budget hotels and hostels near the Ningbo Railway Station are also within easy reach.

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

• The Ningbo Museum, known for its striking modern architecture.
• The Tianyi Pavilion, one of the oldest private libraries in China.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are numerous souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, Ningbo tea, silk products, and traditional Chinese items like fans and calligraphy brushes.

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

Taxis, public buses, and rideshare services like Didi are readily available. The Ningbo Railway Station is a short taxi ride away for train travel, and the Ningbo Lishe International Airport is about a 30-minute drive.