A seaside city in Jiangsu accessible by high-speed rail, perfect for family trips

Lianyungang!
🌅 Jiangsu's only coastal city where mountains meet the sea, easily reachable by high-speed rail with stunning scenery and fewer crowds!
🌅 Liandao Island boasts crystal-clear blue waters, rivaling Sanya on sunny days, with soft sandy beaches ideal for kids!
🌅 Seafood is incredibly affordable—indulge to your heart's content!
🌅 Filming location for *Journey to the West*—explore Huaguo Mountain and Water Curtain Cave with kids to unlock a mythical world!

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**2-Day, 1-Night Lianyungang Itinerary**

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**DAY 1: Mountain & Sea Wonders + Nostalgic Old Streets**
📸 **Morning: Huaguo Mountain (¥90)**
Home of the Monkey King! Visit Water Curtain Cave and Sanyuan Palace, and spot wild monkeys.
Hike to Yunu Peak (Jiangsu's highest point) for breathtaking views of mountains merging with the sea.

📸 **Afternoon: Yuwan / Haishang Yuntai Mountain (¥80)**
**Yuwan**: A summer retreat with waterfalls, streams, and unique rocks—great for family water play.
**Haishang Yuntai Mountain**: Summit for a panoramic view of Liandao, capturing the "Rio de Janeiro of Jiangsu" photo spot.

📸 **Evening: Lianyungang Old Street**
Charming Republic-era architecture, cobblestone paths, and vintage clock towers—perfect for artsy photos.
Must-eats: Xianghe Tofu Rolls (30-year-old establishment) and Old Street BBQ.

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**DAY 2: Island Sunrise + Beach Fun**
📸 **Dawn: Yangwotou Sunrise (Free)**
Lianyungang's most stunning sunrise spot—watch the sea glow crimson at dawn!
*Tip:* Check the weather; cloudy days ruin the view. No restrooms nearby—drink sparingly.

📸 **Morning: Liandao Island (¥50)**
**Dashawan Bay**: Jiangsu's largest bathing beach, with soft sand for swimming and digging.
**Suma Bay**: Less crowded, clear waters—search for shells and crabs by the rocks.
**Seaside Boardwalk**: Hike from Dashawan to Suma Bay for breathtaking coastal views!

📸 **Evening: Sunset at Xiliandao Fishing Village**
Experience rustic fishing village vibes, watch boats return, and snap photos of the "Sea-Bound Potala Palace."
**Seafood Dinner**: Buy fresh picks at Xuqiu Seafood Market for half the price of tourist spots!

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**Transport**: Scattered attractions—rent a car (available at the high-speed rail station).
**Monkey Alert**: Huaguo Mountain monkeys snatch food—keep backpacks zipped!