Romance at the Confluence of River and Sea! 8 Stunning Must-Visit Spots in Qidong That 99% of People Don't Know About!

Qidong Travel Guide: A Hidden Gem Where River Meets Sea

1. Must-Visit Attractions

Yuantuo Cape Scenic Area (Free): The first place in Jiangsu to witness sunrise. Standing by the "River-Sea Confluence" monument, you'll be awed by the dramatic meeting of the muddy Yangtze River and azure sea waters. Both sunrise and sunset here are breathtaking.
Golden Beach (Ticket ~¥30): Qidong's most popular seaside resort with fine sand, perfect for swimming, sand play, and sunbathing. Summer offers activities like beach ATVs and water bikes.
Lüsi Fishing Port (Free): One of China's four major fishing ports. Most vibrant when fishing boats return at dawn – buy the freshest seafood and experience authentic fishing village culture.
Jiangtian Ecological Park (Ticket ~¥50): Combines eco-agriculture with leisure activities like fruit picking, fishing, and farm-to-table dining. Ideal for family trips.
Qidong Printmaking Art Center (Free): Discover Qidong's unique printmaking art, admire exquisite works, and even try printmaking yourself.

2. Food Recommendations: A Seafood Lover's Paradise

Lüsi Seafood: Renowned for its freshness. Must-tries include hairtail, yellow croaker, pomfret, swimming crab, and prawns. Visit restaurants like "Lüsi Fishing Port Seafood City" for live-cooked feasts.
Qidong Braised Mutton: A local specialty – tender, flavorful mutton without gaminess. Try at time-honored restaurants like "Old Neighborhood."
Qidong Yuanzi: Glutinous rice dumplings with sweet (red bean paste) or savory (shredded radish) fillings. Delightfully chewy.
Mud Snails: A tidal flat delicacy, delicious stir-fried or in soups.

3. Budget-Friendly Accommodation

Downtown Qidong: Chain hotels like Home Inn and Hanting (¥150-300), convenient with many dining options.
Near Yuantuo Cape: Homestays and farm stays (¥200-400), ideal for sunrise viewing.
Lüsi Fishing Port: Fisherman's homestays (¥150-300) offering authentic experiences and fresh seafood.

4. Itinerary Suggestions

Day Trip: Sunrise at Yuantuo Cape → Golden Beach → Seafood at Lüsi Port
2-Day Trip:
Day1: Yuantuo Cape → Golden Beach → Lüsi Port
Day2: Jiangtian Park → Printmaking Center → Seafood shopping

5. Tips

Best seasons: Spring to Autumn (swimming in summer, seafood in autumn)
When buying seafood, check freshness and compare prices
Public transport includes buses and taxis; self-driving is more convenient