Things To Do
in Nantong
Nantong sits at the northern edge of Jiangsu along the Yangtze and Hao rivers, blending historic waterways with modern industry. The city is known for its canal-side charm, leafy parks, and a growing arts and design scene. Traditional Jiangsu cuisine and fresh seafood are staples here, with easy access to coastal attractions.
Visitors can enjoy scenic riverfronts, cultural sites, and a relaxed pace just a short ride from Shanghai and Nanjing.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Nantong Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the region. Marvel at the ancient artifacts and exhibitions that showcase Nantong's past, including its role in the silk trade. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Nantong Old Street, where traditional architecture and local crafts await.
For lunch, indulge in local delicacies at a nearby restaurant, sampling dishes like Nantong-style dumplings. Post-lunch, head to the Zhenguo Temple, a tranquil spot filled with intricate carvings and peaceful gardens, perfect for reflection. Spend the afternoon wandering through the temple grounds, absorbing the spiritual ambiance and learning about its history.
As the sun sets, make your way to the Yangtze River waterfront for a scenic view of the river and city skyline. Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood while watching boats glide by. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the promenade, taking in the city lights and the serene atmosphere.
Begin your day at the Nantong Forest Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature among lush greenery and serene pathways. Take a peaceful walk around the park's lakes, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. Don't miss the chance to spot local wildlife and take beautiful photographs of the blooming flowers.
After a morning filled with nature, enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the park's designated areas, surrounded by vibrant scenery. Following lunch, visit the nearby Nantong Botanical Garden, where you can explore diverse plant species and themed gardens. This garden offers an educational experience about biodiversity and conservation efforts.
As evening approaches, head to the city center for dinner at a restaurant specializing in Jiangsu cuisine. Savor traditional dishes that highlight the region's flavors, such as sweet and sour fish. After dinner, enjoy a casual stroll through the bustling night market, where you can shop for souvenirs and taste local street food.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚶One-way local transport | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🧃Bottled water | $0.3-1 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-80 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich waterways and canal-side scenery to explore on foot
- Delicate Jiangsu/Huaiyang cuisine with excellent seafood
- Close proximity to Shanghai and Nanjing for short side trips
- Relaxed pace and friendly local hospitality
- Language barrier in more rural or older neighborhoods
- Public transport outside the city center can be limited
- Summer heat and humidity can be intense
- "Nǐ hǎo" - Hello
- "Xièxiè" - Thank you
- "Qǐngwèn" - Excuse me
- "Nǐ huì shuō Yīngyǔ ma?" - Do you speak English?
- "Zhège duōshǎo qián?" - How much is this?
- "Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Wǒ yào zhège" - I want this
- "Hǎochī" - Delicious
- "Qǐng gěi wǒ shuǐ" - Water, please
- "Bù hǎo yìsi, wǒ bù dǒng" - Sorry, I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Nantong
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide riverside views with bridges and reflections, especially atmospheric at sunrise and sunset.
Panoramic viewpoints, temple architecture, and forest trails ideal for landscape and cultural photography.
Illuminated streets and bridges over the river create vibrant urban night shots.
Historic canal crossings with traditional buildings offering charming, old-world angles.
Food in Nantong
Nantong Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lightly steamed or braised with soy and aromatics to highlight the fish’s natural sweetness.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked with soy, sugar, and spices for a tender, savory-sweet dish.
Bright, quick-cooked prawns with ginger, scallions, and a touch of Shaoxing wine.
A shareable pot with a mix of seafood, tofu, and vegetables in a flavorful broth.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling stalls offering fresh seafood, pickles, dumplings, and local snacks.
Street bites, skewers, and sweet treats along the water’s edge in the evening.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A courteous nod or light handshake is common; address people with appropriate titles and use polite language.
Speak calmly in public spaces, avoid loud arguments, and refrain from touching people's heads. When giving or receiving items, use both hands.
Wait for the host to start eating, share dishes family-style, and try to sample a variety of items without being overly assertive about preferences.
Safety
Tipping in Nantong
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most casual eateries. In higher-end venues or luxury hotels, a small tip is appreciated but not required.
Cash (CNY) is widely accepted; digital payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are ubiquitous. Some smaller shops may accept only cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent showers and occasional typhoons. Sip cooling beverages, carry a light rain shell, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild and comfortable, with dry-to-moderate humidity. A great time for outdoor city walks and mountain viewpoints.
Cool to cold, with possible chilly winds along the river. Dress in layers and seek indoor cultural spaces and cafés.
Warm days with refreshing showers. Floral displays and park strolls are particularly enjoyable.
Nantong at Night
Hiking in Nantong
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep sections, scenic overlooks, and temples; a popular day hike from Nantong.
Birdwatching routes and salt marsh landscapes along Jiangsu’s coast, suitable for nature lovers.
Airports
How to reach Nantong by plane.
Regional airport serving domestic flights and limited international routes; convenient city connections by taxi or rail link.
Major international gateway about 2-3 hours away by high-speed rail or highway routes; often used for longer international connections.
Another major hub about a couple of hours away by fast train or road; convenient for connections to central China.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The vast majority of the population, with diverse subcultures within the urban areas.
Smaller pockets of Hui and other minority communities exist, with most residents speaking Mandarin and local Jiangsu dialects.
A steady influx of students and migrant workers supports a young, dynamic urban scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved pastime across Jiangsu, with local clubs and public courts in parks.
Popular on street courts and in community centers; pick-up games are common.
Widely played in gyms and parks; casual games are easy to join.
Local leagues and informal games occur in schools and community fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nantong.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Nantong; look for tofu, mushrooms, and vegetable-based dishes. Ask about stock and broth ingredients, and request meat-free preparations when needed.