Things To Do
in Nanning

Nanning is the capital city of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China, known for its lush, green landscapes and vibrant multicultural atmosphere. The city serves as a gateway to the unique culture of the Zhuang ethnic minority and is rich in history, with numerous parks and gardens. Visitors can explore a mix of traditional and modern architecture, as well as enjoy various outdoor activities in the surrounding natural beauty.

Nanning's strategic location also makes it an important transportation hub, connecting China with Southeast Asia.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the City
morning
:

Visit the Guangxi Museum of Nationalities to learn about the diverse cultures of the region.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the beautiful Nanhu Eco-city Central Park, enjoying the lakes and gardens.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and explore the vibrant night market at the Nanning International Convention and Exhibition Center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a trip to Qingxiu Mountain Scenic Area for hiking and breathtaking views of the city.

afternoon
:

Visit the Guangxi Science and Technology Museum, which offers interactive exhibits.

evening
:

Experience a traditional Zhuang dance performance at a local cultural venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of noodles$2
🍺Local beer$3
Cup of coffee$2
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
🏨Budget hotel per night$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnic groups.
  • Beautiful parks and natural landscapes.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers.
  • Public transportation can be crowded.
  • Summer heat and humidity can be uncomfortable.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "我想要这个" - I want this
  • "很高兴认识你" - Nice to meet you

Places to Visit in Nanning

Visit one of these nice places.

Qingxiu Mountain

Stunning natural landscapes with lush greenery and panoramic views of the city.

Nanhu Eco-city Central Park

A beautifully designed park with scenic lakes and gardens, perfect for nature photography.

Zhuang Cultural Park

An area showcasing traditional Zhuang architecture and culture, providing excellent photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Nanning

Nanning is a culinary haven that offers a delightful mix of flavors, heavily influenced by the local Zhuang culture.

Nanning Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Guilin Rice Noodles

A famous dish made of rice noodles served with various toppings and a flavorful broth.

Must-Try!

Zhuang Style Grilled Fish

Fresh fish marinated with local spices and grilled to perfection, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Sour Bamboo Shoot Soup

A flavorful soup made with sour bamboo shoots, herbs, and sometimes meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Nanning Night Market

A bustling market with a variety of street foods, snacks, and local delicacies.

Zhongshan Road Food Street

A popular street offering numerous food stalls and shops featuring local snacks and drinks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Nanning has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid with average temperatures around 31°C (88°F), while winters are mild, averaging around 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is abundant in summer, making it a lush green city, while autumn and spring provide comfortable temperatures and clear skies.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Tradition

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially when interacting with the Zhuang community.

Politeness

Use polite language and gestures, such as bowing slightly when greeting.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and try to use chopsticks properly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Nanning is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing personal belongings. Be cautious when crossing busy streets and use pedestrian crossings.

Tipping in Nanning

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in China, but small change may be appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; cash is also accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time to explore parks and nature.

Summer

Hot and humid with frequent rain showers; best to plan indoor activities and stay hydrated.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and clear skies; perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Winter

Mild compared to northern China, but temperatures can drop; suitable for comfortable city exploration.

Nightlife Guide

Nanning at Night

Nanning's nightlife offers a mix of modern bars, traditional tea houses, and vibrant night markets. Many locals enjoy karaoke and dance clubs, while others prefer the relaxed atmosphere of outdoor cafes. You can also experience cultural performances, including traditional Zhuang music and dance shows, which add a unique flavor to the nighttime scene.

Hiking in Nanning

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mingshi River Scenic Area

Offers stunning views and hiking trails along the river, surrounded by karst mountains.

Daming Mountain

A popular hiking destination with challenging trails and rich biodiversity, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Nanning by plane.

Nanning Wuxu International Airport

Located about 30 km from the city center, it connects Nanning to major cities in China and several international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Nanning is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available, though traffic can be busy. For longer distances, public transportation is a convenient option.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Zhuang Ethnic Group

The largest ethnic minority in Guangxi, known for their unique culture and traditions.

Han Chinese

The predominant ethnic group in Nanning, contributing to the city's development and modernization.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Widely played and followed, with many local teams and street courts.

Badminton

A popular recreational sport among locals, with many parks offering courts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Nanning can be heavy, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, with ride-sharing services also available. The city has made efforts to improve traffic conditions, but it's advisable to plan your travels accordingly to avoid delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanning.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to specify your dietary needs while ordering.

Allergies

Inform the staff about any allergies, particularly to seafood, as it is commonly used in local cuisine.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Nanning has several hospitals and clinics offering a range of medical services, including traditional Chinese medicine. Major hospitals have English-speaking staff, but it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are widely available, and many over-the-counter medications can be purchased without a prescription.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide