Ningbo Xikou Travel Guide!

Ningbo Xikou Town is the hometown of Chiang Kai-shek and a national scenic area, featuring a blend of historical culture and natural landscapes. Here’s a detailed travel guide to help you explore efficiently:

---

**1. Top Attractions**
1. **Chiang Family Former Residence Complex** (Combo ticket: ~¥120)
- **Fenggao House**: Ancestral home of the Chiang family, showcasing family history.
- **Wenchang Pavilion**: Chiang Kai-shek and Soong Mei-ling’s villa with stunning views over the Shanxi River.
- **Western-Style House**: Former residence of Chiang Ching-kuo, featuring his manuscripts.
- **Yutai Salt Shop**: Chiang Kai-shek’s birthplace, originally a family salt business.

2. **Xuedou Mountain Scenic Area** (Combo ticket: ~¥150, includes shuttle)
- **Qianzhangyan Waterfall**: 186-meter drop, panoramic views via cable car.
- **Miaogao Terrace**: Chiang Kai-shek’s summer villa overlooking Tingxia Lake.
- **Sanyin Pool**: Three-tiered waterfall with a serene hiking trail.
- **Xuedou Temple**: Ancient Buddhist temple with the world’s tallest outdoor Maitreya Buddha statue (57m).

3. **Other Highlights**
- **Chiang’s Mother Tomb**: A solemn memorial site.
- **Shanxi River Rafting** (summer only): Bamboo rafting through idyllic landscapes.

---

**2. Transportation**
- **Self-drive**: From Ningbo downtown → Yongjin Expressway Xikou exit (~40 mins).
- **Public Transport**:
- Take Bus 988 from Ningbo South Station to Xikou (~1.5 hrs).
- From Ningbo Railway Station, take a train to Fenghua Station, then transfer to Bus 230 to Xikou.

---

**3. Itinerary Suggestions**
- **Day Trip**: Chiang Family Former Residence (AM) → Xuedou Mountain (PM, focus on Sanyin Pool + Qianzhangyan).
- **2-Day Trip**:
- **Day 1**: Chiang Family Former Residence + Chiang’s Mother Tomb + Shanxi River stroll.
- **Day 2**: Full day at Xuedou Mountain (use shuttle to save energy).

---

**4. Food Recommendations**
- **Xikou Layered Cake**: Crispy and savory, try Jiang’s Longmen brand.
- **Taro Dishes**: Fenghua specialty, e.g., taro with pork ribs.
- **Beef Dry Noodles**: Local noodle dish with rich broth.
- **Restaurant Pick**: Xikou Republican Courtyard (retro vibe, local snacks).

---

**5. Accommodation**
- **Luxury**: Xikou Silver Phoenix Resort (near Xuedou Mountain).
- **Budget**: Boutique B&Bs in town (e.g., Moqi·Xikou, close to Chiang’s Former Residence).
- **Unique Stay**: Xufuyan RV Camp at Xuedou Mountain (family-friendly).

---

**6. Tips**
1. Wear comfortable shoes for Xuedou Mountain hikes; bring mosquito repellent in summer.
2. Keep tickets handy for entry to buildings in the Chiang Residence complex.
3. Avoid national holidays (e.g., Oct 1-7) for fewer crowds.

---

**7. Nearby Extensions**
- **With extra time**:
- **Siming Mountain**: Scenic drive, stunning autumn foliage.
- **Tengtou Village** (30-min drive): Eco-village, great for families.

---

Xikou blends Republic-era history with natural beauty. Slow down to savor the tranquility and culture along the Shanxi River.