Things To Do
in Linhai
Linhai is a historic coastal city in Zhejiang province, known for its well-preserved ancient walls and traditional streets. Its star attraction is the Linhai Ancient City, where cobblestone lanes, old gates, and temples evoke a mingling of history and daily life. The surrounding countryside and nearby shore offer fresh seafood, fishing villages, and scenic coastal views.
With convenient access to Taizhou and Ningbo, Linhai serves as a relaxed base for exploring Zhejiang's coast and hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Linhai Ancient City Wall, where you can walk along the well-preserved structure and enjoy views of the surrounding area. Afterward, explore the vibrant local markets, where you can sample traditional snacks and purchase handmade crafts. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the city by taking a guided tour of the Linhai Museum.
In the afternoon, visit the iconic Tianyi Pavilion, one of the oldest libraries in China, to appreciate its beautiful architecture and tranquil gardens. After a leisurely stroll, head to the nearby Dongxiao Temple, where you can observe local worshippers and experience the serene atmosphere. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional specialties like Linhai rice noodles.
As the sun sets, take a peaceful walk along the riverbank, where you can admire the reflection of the city lights in the water. Find a cozy café or tea house to relax and try some local teas while reflecting on your day. Cap off the evening by attending a cultural performance that showcases traditional Chinese music and dance.
Begin your day with a hands-on cooking class where you will learn to prepare authentic Linhai dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Engage with a local chef who will share stories about the culinary traditions of the region and guide you in the art of dumpling-making. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you savor the delicious meal you’ve just created.
After lunch, visit the Linhai Folk Customs Museum to gain insight into the local culture through its exhibits and artifacts. Chat with the friendly museum staff, who can provide fascinating stories about Linhai's traditions and festivals. Spend some time exploring the nearby quaint streets, adorned with traditional architecture and local artisan shops.
In the evening, join a guided food tour that takes you to popular street food stalls and hidden gems around the city. Sample various dishes, from grilled skewers to sweet pastries, while learning about the history of each culinary delight. As the night winds down, enjoy a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚍Local transport (single ride) | $0.5-2 |
| 🧭Souvenir item | $4-20 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and traditional town atmosphere
- Fresh seafood and coastline scenery
- Affordable dining and lodging options
- Relaxed pace, easy to explore on foot
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- English may be less common outside tourist sites
- Can be crowded in peak travel seasons
- Public transportation within town is limited without private transport
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问洗手间在哪里？" - Excuse me, where is the bathroom?
- "你会说英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
- "这个多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "请给我菜单" - Please give me the menu
Places to Visit in Linhai
Visit one of these nice places.
The historic gate and surrounding stone walls provide dramatic sunrise light and atmospheric street scenes.
Narrow lanes with traditional facades offer tactile textures and candid street life for everyday photography.
Colorful boats, fishing nets, and sea reflections create dynamic coastal compositions at golden hour.
Bustling market scenes with vendors and spices provide vibrant cultural portraits.
Food in Linhai
Linhai Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A communal pot with a variety of fresh seafood and vegetables, simmered in a flavorful broth at harbor-side eateries.
Must-Try!
A coastal fish dish common in Zhejiang towns, slow-braised with soy, ginger, and aromatic aromatics.
Delicate, fragrant fish steamed quickly to preserve natural flavors, typically served with light dipping sauces.
Seasonal local greens quickly wok-tried with garlic, a staple accompaniment in many meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market near the city gate offering fresh seafood, grilled skewers, fried snacks, and sweet treats.
Seasonal stalls along the coastline serving quick bites like dumplings, fried pastries, and local desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple nod or small handshake with a polite greeting like 你好 (nǐ hǎo) is common.
Address elders with appropriate titles and show deference in social settings.
Ask about ingredients in soups and sauces, as stock and seasonings are often rich in flavor agents like soy and seafood stock.
Avoid loud conversations in public, especially in temples and residential areas; queue politely and avoid blocking doorways.
Safety
Tipping in Linhai
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most local restaurants; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip at upscale venues is acceptable but not expected.
WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted; cash is always handy. Some hotels and larger restaurants may accept bank cards, but mobile payments are dominant.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming scenery; great for city walks and temple visits. Pack light layers and a rain jacket for occasional showers.
Hot and humid with a chance of tropical showers and typhoons from June to September. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Pleasant and comfortable with clear skies and cooler evenings. Ideal for outdoor photography and coastal strolls.
Cool to mild temperatures; rarely very cold. Layered clothing is sufficient, and indoor dining is comfortable for warm meals.
Linhai at Night
Hiking in Linhai
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic walk along the shoreline with sweeping sea views and rocky inlets.
Gentle rural trails through fields and small villages, suitable for a relaxed hike or bike ride.
Moderate forested trails with periodic viewpoints overlooking the town and coast.
Airports
How to reach Linhai by plane.
Closest major airport with domestic connections; about a 1–1.5 hour drive to Linhai depending on traffic.
Larger international airport with broader connections; about 1.5–2.5 hours by road or train to Linhai.
Regional option with occasional long-haul links; further away but useful for certain routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group, with local dialects and cultural traditions shaping daily life.
Surrounding countryside includes farming villages contributing to the regional economy and food culture.
A mix of workers for tourism and hospitality; short-term visitors and expatriates are less common but present in some areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A common urban activity; public courts can be found in parks and schools.
Widely played in community centers and clubs; easy to join casually.
Popular in gyms and outdoor courts; friendly local competitions exist in some neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Linhai.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Zhejiang dishes are seafood- or meat-forward; look for vegetable-based plates, tofu, and simple stir-fries. When dining out, ask for 无肉 (no meat) or 肤素 (vegetarian) options and request stock made without meat for soups.