Things To Do
in Hai’an
Hai'an is a county-level city located in Jiangsu Province, China. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, including beautiful rivers and lush farmland. The city is also recognized for its rich history and cultural heritage, with several historical sites and traditional architecture.
Hai'an is a thriving city with a mix of modern developments and traditional charm, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Chinese rural life.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the beautiful wetlands of Hai'an. Enjoy the diverse bird species and picturesque landscapes.
Visit the Hai'an Ancient Canal for a scenic stroll along the water. Try some local snacks from nearby vendors while soaking in the atmosphere.
Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, sampling fresh seafood specialties. Watch the sunset over the canal for a perfect end to your day.
Begin your exploration at the Hai'an Museum to learn about the region's rich history. Take your time admiring the artifacts and exhibits.
Visit the Lingxi Temple, known for its stunning architecture and tranquil atmosphere. Take a moment to reflect and soak in the serene surroundings.
Dine at a local restaurant and try traditional Jiangsu cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the city, experiencing the vibrant nightlife.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and traditional festivals.
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches along the Yellow Sea.
- Growing economy with opportunities in tourism and local industries.
- Delicious local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and regional dishes.
- Friendly community atmosphere with welcoming residents.
- Limited international transport options, making travel less convenient.
- Rapid urbanization leading to potential environmental concerns.
- Less exposure and amenities compared to larger cities like Shanghai.
- Occasional air quality issues due to industrial activity.
- Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers can be challenging.
Best Activities in Hai’an
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the historic Grand Canal, admiring the traditional architecture and beautiful surroundings.
Explore the shores of Hongze Lake, a serene and picturesque spot offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the natural beauty.
Immerse yourself in nature at the Hai'an National Agricultural Park, which features lush greenery, walking paths, and various outdoor recreational activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Hai’an with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Hai’an
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic spot with beautiful natural landscapes and perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
Offers picturesque views of the lake and its surroundings, creating breathtaking photo opportunities.
Features vast wetland areas and diverse wildlife, making it ideal for nature photography and birdwatching.
Food in Hai’an
Hai’an Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish featuring fresh Hai'an crabs steamed with Shaoxing rice wine, bringing out the sweet and delicate flavor of the crab meat. Recommended to try at local seafood restaurants along the coast.
Must-Try!
Hai'an's specialty salted duck is prepared with a secret blend of spices and then air-dried to create a distinctive umami flavor. Locally available at traditional markets or specialty stores.
Eels, a local aquatic delicacy, are braised to perfection in a savory soy sauce, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish. Best enjoyed at traditional restaurants in Hai'an.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Hai’an better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers an array of fresh seafood, including crabs, prawns, fish, and shellfish, allowing visitors to savor the local flavors and even sample ready-to-eat seafood snacks from various stalls.
A vibrant street food destination featuring a diverse range of local snacks and delicacies, from seafood skewers to savory pancakes and steamed buns. Perfect for those seeking an immersive street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hai'an, it is important to show respect to elders by addressing them with appropriate titles and using polite language when interacting with them.
Being on time is highly valued in Hai'an, so it's important to make an effort to arrive punctually for appointments and gatherings.
When dining with others in Hai'an, it is customary to wait for the host to start eating before beginning a meal, and showing appreciation for the food is highly regarded.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Hai’an with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Hai’an
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Hai'an, China, and it is not expected in most situations. In restaurants, tipping is not customary, and in some cases, it may even be refused. However, in high-end hotels and restaurants that cater to international guests, a service charge may be added to the bill.
Payment in Hai'an, China is primarily done through cash or mobile payment systems such as Alipay and WeChat Pay. Credit cards are less commonly accepted, especially outside of major cities. It is important to have sufficient cash on hand for transactions, as many smaller establishments may not accept other forms of payment.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hai’an.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Hai’an as the weather is mild and pleasant. The cherry blossoms bloom in April, creating a beautiful sight throughout the city. It is also a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Summer is warm and humid in Hai’an. This season is ideal for enjoying water activities and visiting the coastal areas. However, be prepared for high temperatures and occasional rainfall.
Autumn is another excellent time to visit Hai’an. The weather is cool and comfortable, making it a perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. The fall foliage in the surrounding countryside is also stunning during this time.
Winter in Hai’an is cold and damp. While the city does not experience heavy snowfall, it can get quite chilly. However, it is a good time to experience local cultural events and festivals, and to savor warm, hearty dishes that are popular during the winter months.
Hai’an at Night
Hiking in Hai’an
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near Hai'an, Yao Mountain offers scenic views and multiple hiking trails suitable for hikers of all levels.
Lao Mountain features lush vegetation and a variety of trails, making it a great spot for hiking and nature exploration.
This national park has well-marked trails and beautiful landscapes, providing a peaceful environment for hiking.
Although more known for its wetlands, the park offers trails that allow hikers to explore both land and water habitats.
A bit further out, Chongming Island has numerous nature trails and scenic coastal views ideal for a hiking day trip.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Hai’an through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Hai’an by plane.
Nantong Xingdong International Airport is the nearest airport, located approximately 50 kilometers from Hai’an.
Yangzhou Taizhou International Airport is about 70 kilometers away from Hai’an, serving both domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 120 kilometers away, Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport is a major hub offering various international connections.
Shanghai Pudong International Airport is approximately 170 kilometers from Hai’an and is one of the busiest international airports in China.
Nanjing Lukou International Airport is about 100 kilometers from Hai’an, providing both domestic and international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Hai’an, making up the majority of the population.
A Muslim ethnic group known for their distinct cultural practices and traditions.
Includes small populations of other ethnic groups such as Manchu, Miao, and others.
The Soul of Hai’an
Discover the essence of Hai’an through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Hai'an, with many local clubs and schools participating in organized leagues and matches.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity, with many outdoor courts available and local teams competing in regional tournaments.
As a traditional and widely loved sport in China, table tennis is actively played in Hai'an, with community centers often hosting matches.
Badminton is a popular recreational sport in Hai'an, with many residents playing informally and in clubs.
Running and jogging are common leisure activities, with parks and tracks providing ample space for residents to engage in fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hai’an.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is abundant in Hai'an, vegetarian and vegan visitors can find options such as stir-fried greens, tofu dishes, and vegetable-based soups at many local restaurants and street food vendors.
Individuals with gluten restrictions can opt for rice-based dishes, seafood, and gluten-free snacks available at the food markets and street food vendors across Hai'an.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Hai’an with these cultural adventures.
