Ningbo Travel Guide (Zhejiang/East China/China/East Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Ningbo

Ningbo is an ancient port city in Zhejiang, East China. This vibrant metropolis has a rich cultural heritage and offers visitors a wide range of attractions, including historic sites, museums, natural wonders, and delicious local cuisine. Located on the coast of the East China Sea, Ningbo also offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, cycling, and boating. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Ningbo.

List of Places to Visit in Ningbo

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you want to learn more about the history and culture of Ningbo, there are plenty of museums and historic sites to explore:

Ningbo Museum: This award-winning museum showcases the history and culture of Ningbo through a collection of over 20,000 artifacts.
Tianyi Pavilion: This is the oldest private library in China, dating back to the Ming Dynasty. It houses a collection of over 300,000 ancient books and manuscripts.
Drum Tower: This tower is one of the oldest and most recognizable landmarks in Ningbo. It was built in the Tang Dynasty and has played an important role in the city’s history.
Ningbo Old Bund: This historic waterfront area features a mix of Western-style buildings and traditional Chinese architecture. It offers stunning views of the city and the harbor.

Natural Attractions of Ningbo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ningbo is also home to several natural attractions that are worth visiting:

Xikou Scenic Area: This area is known for its lush forest, clear streams, and picturesque waterfalls. It is a popular destination for hiking and picnicking.
Dongqian Lake: This vast lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming. It is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including colorful flowers and rolling hills.
Cicheng Ancient Town: This well-preserved ancient town features narrow alleys, old buildings, and a tranquil canal. It offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ningbo

Ningbo is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking routes to explore. Some of the most popular ones include:

Fenghua Xikou Tianxia Trail: This 64-kilometer trail offers stunning views of Xikou Scenic Area and its surrounding mountains. It is suitable for experienced hikers and takes about two days to complete.
Xuedou Mountain Trail: This 15-kilometer trail leads to the top of Xuedou Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of Ningbo and the East China Sea. It takes about six hours to complete.
Shanglin Lake Cycle Path: This 25-kilometer path circles around the picturesque Shanglin Lake, passing through lush forests and idyllic villages.

Best Things to Do in Ningbo: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to choose from in Ningbo. Here are a few suggestions:

Water Puppet Show: This traditional art form originated in Vietnam but has become popular in Ningbo as well. The puppets are controlled by puppeteers who stand waist-deep in water, creating mesmerizing performances.
Explore Ningbo by Night: This tour takes you to some of the city’s most scenic spots, such as Ningbo Old Bund and Moon Lake, while enjoying the city’s night view.
Ningbo Food Tour: Ningbo’s cuisine is famed for its seafood dishes, such as steamed crab and fried fish. This food tour takes you to local eateries to taste the city’s specialties.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ningbo

Day 1: Explore Tianyi Pavilion and Drum Tower. Day 2: Visit Ningbo Museum and the Old Bund. Day 3: Hike or bike in Xikou Scenic Area. Day 4: Take a day trip to Cicheng Ancient Town. Day 5: Relax and have fun at Dongqian Lake. Day 6: Attend a water puppet show in the evening. Day 7: Go on a Ningbo food tour to taste the local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Ningbo

Must-Try Dishes

Ningbo is known for its fresh seafood dishes, which use locally caught fish, crab, and lobster. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Steamed Crab: Fresh crab is steamed over a bed of glutinous rice and served with soy sauce and garlic.
Fried Fish: Fresh fish is deep-fried until crispy and served with a sweet and sour sauce.
Ningbo Tangyuan: These are glutinous rice balls filled with minced meat or sweet sesame paste, served in a clear broth.

Local Beverages

Ningbo is a tea-growing region and is known for its high-quality green teas. Some of the most popular ones include:

Longjing Tea: This is a premium green tea with a delicate flavor and aroma. It is grown in the nearby Hangzhou region.
Xinyang Maojian Tea: This is another high-quality green tea with a refreshing taste and floral aroma. It is grown in Henan province but is widely available in Ningbo.

Where to Stay in Ningbo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ningbo offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are a few suggestions:

Sofitel Ningbo: This five-star hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers spacious rooms, a spa, and a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city.
Ningbo Leidisen Plaza: This four-star hotel is located near Tianyi Square and offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and a fitness center.
Ningbo Old Bund Youth Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is located in the Old Bund area and offers dormitory rooms and private rooms. It also has a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city and the harbor.

What to Buy in Ningbo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ningbo is famous for its local products, such as:

Ningbo rice wine: This is a traditional Chinese alcoholic beverage made from glutinous rice. It has a sweet taste and is often used in cooking.
Cixi silk: This is a high-quality silk produced in Cixi, a county in Ningbo. It is known for its softness and durability.
Xikou tea: This is a fragrant and refreshing tea grown in Xikou Scenic Area. It is great for relaxing and can help with digestion.

Local Culture and Customs of Ningbo

Ningbo has a long and rich cultural heritage, with a unique blend of Chinese and Western influences. The locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness, and respect for traditions and customs is highly valued. Some customs to keep in mind when visiting Ningbo include:

Use chopsticks: Chinese cuisine is typically eaten with chopsticks, and Ningbo is no exception. If you are not used to using chopsticks, take some time to practice before your trip.
Dress modestly: Although Ningbo is a modern and cosmopolitan city, it is still important to dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites.
Learn some basic Chinese: While many people in Ningbo speak English, knowing some basic Chinese phrases can go a long way in showing respect and appreciation for the local culture.

Best Time to Visit Ningbo

The best time to visit Ningbo is between September and November, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The spring and summer months can be humid and rainy, while the winter months can be chilly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ningbo

Do:

Try the local cuisine: Ningbo is famous for its seafood dishes, so make sure to try some of the local specialties.
Explore the natural beauty: Ningbo has many scenic spots, from Xikou Scenic Area to Dongqian Lake.
Learn about the local culture: Ningbo has a rich cultural heritage, so take some time to learn about its traditions and customs.

Don’t:

Don’t litter: Be respectful of the environment and dispose of your trash properly.
Don’t be disrespectful to local customs: Whether it’s dress codes or social etiquette, make sure to be aware of and respect local customs and traditions.
Don’t forget to be polite: Basic politeness and respect can go a long way in making your trip to Ningbo enjoyable and memorable.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ningbo

Ningbo is generally a safe city, with low crime rates and a friendly and welcoming local population. However, as with any city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions such as keeping valuables out of sight and avoiding walking around alone at night.

Health in Ningbo

Ningbo has good medical facilities, with several hospitals and clinics located throughout the city. Make sure to bring any necessary medications with you and take basic precautions to prevent illness, such as washing your hands regularly and drinking bottled water.

Getting to Ningbo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ningbo

The closest airport to Ningbo is Ningbo Lishe International Airport (NGB), which is located about 12 kilometers from the city center. It offers both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Ningbo

Ningbo has several bus stations that offer long-distance and local routes, including the South Bus Station and the North Bus Station.

Other Options

Other transportation options to consider include taxis, trains, and bicycles. Taxis are readily available throughout the city, while trains offer a convenient and affordable way to travel to other cities in China.

How to Get Around in Ningbo

Ningbo has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, subways, and taxis. Cycling is also a popular option, with several bike rental services available throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Ningbo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ningbo is well-connected to other cities and destinations in China, making it a great starting point for further exploration. Some nearby destinations to consider include:

Hangzhou: This beautiful city is located just 150 kilometers from Ningbo and is famous for its West Lake, tea plantations, and traditional water towns.
Shanghai: This vibrant metropolis is located about 250 kilometers from Ningbo and is known for its futuristic skyline, historic sites, and shopping districts.
Putuo Mountain: This sacred mountain is located off the coast of Ningbo and is one of the four sacred mountains of Chinese Buddhism. It is home to several temples and shrines and can be reached by ferry.

Conclusion

Ningbo is a fascinating and beautiful city that offers visitors a unique blend of culture, nature, and adventure. Whether you want to explore its historic sites, try its delicious cuisine, or hike through its scenic areas, Ningbo has something for everyone. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this remarkable city.