Qiantong Ancient Town in Ninghai|A Hidden Gem of Timeless Jiangnan Charm
by FLYNN SANTIAGO
May 21, 2025
I've found the ultimate family outing spot in Zhejiang and Shanghai! 💯 One-stop check-in for mountains, sea, ancient towns, and hot springs. Kids can play freely while parents relax comfortably—this is the right way to vacation 🏖️
🚗 Transportation Guide:
🚆 For High-Speed Rail Travelers
- High-speed train directly to Ninghai Station (Ninghai County, Ningbo City), with car rentals available right outside the station
- Travel time between attractions is all within 1 hour
🚙 For Self-Driving Travelers
- 2.5 hours direct drive from Shanghai/Hangzhou
- Highly recommend driving! Traveling with kids means lots of luggage, and driving is the most convenient
✨ Day 1: Cultural Stroll
📍 Qiantong Ancient Town (Qiantong Town, Ninghai County, Ningbo City)
The nickname "Little Lijiang of Jiangnan" is well deserved! The Ming and Qing dynasty architecture is full of charm
🌟 Highlights:
✓ Walk with kids through the ancient alleys featuring the Bagua water system
✓ Watch craftsmen demonstrate wood carving skills
✓ Free entry after 5 PM, plus enjoy stunning sunset views
🍡 Must-eat: Qiantong’s Three Treasures are incredibly delicious!
✨ Day 2: Mountain and Sea Fun
📍 Qiangjiao Town + Hengshan Island (Qiangjiao Town, Ninghai County, Ningbo City)
Successfully checked in at "Ningbo’s Little Jeju Island"!
🌊 Recommended activities:
✓ Relax at a seaside café and gaze at the ocean view
✓ Take a 15-minute boat ride to Hengshan Island to catch hermit crabs
✓ Dig in the sand and take great photos with the kids on the beach
📍 Yegu Hot Spring Café
(Shenjuan Town, Ninghai County, Ningbo City)
A hidden gem with a modern Chinese style!
💆♀️ Must-experience:
✓ Soak your feet in the mountain forest foot bath—super relaxing
✓ Play in the water with kids while enjoying coffee
✨ Day 3: Natural Wilderness
📍 Longgong Ancient Village (Chalu Town, Ninghai County, Ningbo City)
The primeval forest stream tracing is perfect for kids!
💦 Recommended activities:
✓ Easy hike along the Han Dynasty ancient post road
✓ Fun water play in the canyon stream tracing
✓ Free bamboo raft swings
🍜 Must-try Food List:
✔️ Qiantong’s Three Treasures: dried tofu, tofu, and wheat dumpling rolls
✔️ Qiangjiao seafood: freshly steamed mitten crab is amazing
✔️ Wheat shrimp noodles: rich broth with plenty of ingredients
✔️ Desserts: Qiantong big pancake must be eaten hot
🏨 Highly Recommended Stylish Accommodations:
💎 Ninghai Anlan (Shenjuan Town, Ninghai County, Ningbo City)
✓ Feeding ponies at the ranch is super cute
✓ Farm vegetable planting experience is top-notch
✓ Plant dyeing DIY is very fun
🌊 Shenhai Bay Homestay (Qiangjiao Town, Ninghai County, Ningbo City)
✓ Unbeatable sea view right outside the window
✓ Falling asleep to the sound of waves is so healing
🚨 Tips to Avoid Pitfalls:
1️⃣ Bring plenty of snacks and water for Hengshan Island
2️⃣ Qiantong Ancient Town exhibition halls close at 5 PM
3️⃣ Be cautious when choosing food stalls in scenic areas
4️⃣ Always wear non-slip shoes for stream tracing
This trip truly delivered the ultimate vacation experience. The kids were overjoyed, and the adults were completely satisfied! 🌸
Post by JAZMINE SIMMONS | Oct 5, 2025













