Things To Do
in Ningbo

Ningbo, located in southeastern China, is a vibrant city known for its rich history and rapidly growing economy. It has a unique blend of ancient culture and modern development, making it a fascinating destination for travelers. The city is famous for its picturesque waterfront, historical temples, and bustling markets.

With its strategic location near the East China Sea, Ningbo serves as a major port and trade center.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Tianyi Pavilion, one of the oldest libraries in China, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

afternoon
:

Explore the Ningbo Museum, where you can learn about the city's history and culture through various exhibits.

evening
:

Stroll along the Ningbo waterfront, enjoying the view of the city skyline and sampling local street food for dinner.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Visit the Dongqian Lake, where you can take a peaceful walk or rent a bicycle to explore the scenic area.

afternoon
:

Check out the Baoguo Temple, a stunning Buddhist temple that also offers insight into Chinese architecture.

evening
:

Head to a local restaurant to enjoy Ningbo's famous seafood dishes, followed by a visit to a KTV (karaoke) bar for a fun night out.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
Coffee$3
🚕Taxi Ride (within city)$2
🏨Hotel Night (mid-range)$50
🎟️Entry to Attractions$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood.
  • Vibrant nightlife and friendly locals.
  • Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
  • "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
  • "请问厕所在哪里? (Qǐngwèn cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "我不懂 (Wǒ bù dǒng)" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱? (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Ningbo

Visit one of these nice places.

Tianyi Pavilion

A historic library surrounded by beautiful gardens, perfect for capturing traditional Chinese architecture.

Dongqian Lake

A picturesque lake with stunning landscapes, ideal for nature photography.

Ningbo Old Bund

A vibrant waterfront area with historical buildings and modern architecture, offering a mix of old and new.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ningbo

Ningbo's culinary scene is a delightful reflection of its coastal heritage, offering an array of seafood and traditional dishes that are a must-try for any visitor.

Ningbo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ningbo Tangyuan

Sweet glutinous rice balls filled with sesame paste, often enjoyed during festivals.

Must-Try!

Ningbo Seafood

Fresh and delicious seafood dishes, particularly the seafood hotpot, featuring local catches.

Steamed Buns

Juicy buns filled with pork or vegetables, perfect for a quick snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Zhejiang Road Night Market

A bustling night market offering a wide variety of local street food, snacks, and souvenirs.

Ningbo Old Bund

A historical area with many food stalls serving traditional Ningbo dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Ningbo experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures averaging around 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and moderate rainfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

It is customary to show respect towards older individuals, often addressing them first.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Greetings

A polite handshake or a slight bow is appropriate when greeting someone.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ningbo is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency numbers are easily accessible, and major hospitals are well-equipped to handle emergencies.

Tipping in Ningbo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

Tipping is not customary in Ningbo, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay 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 for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Hot and humid, perfect for enjoying the coastal beaches, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and clear skies provide excellent conditions for exploring the city.

Winter

Chilly weather, but the festive atmosphere during the Chinese New Year adds charm to the city.

Nightlife Guide

Ningbo at Night

Ningbo's nightlife is vibrant, with numerous bars, clubs, and KTV establishments. The Old Bund area is a hotspot for nightlife, featuring a mix of local and international venues. Bars often have live music, while KTV rooms provide a fun way to enjoy singing with friends. The nightlife scene caters to various tastes, making it easy to find something enjoyable for everyone.

Hiking in Ningbo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shouning Mountain Trail

A popular hiking destination offering various trails with stunning vistas and rich biodiversity.

Xuedou Mountain

Known for its challenging hikes and breathtaking views, it is ideal for more experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Ningbo by plane.

Ningbo Lishe International Airport

Located approximately 12 kilometers from the city center, it serves both domestic and international flights, making it the main gateway for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ningbo is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions are close to each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian zones make it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require public transportation for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Ningbo, contributing to the city's culture and traditions.

Foreign Expatriates

Ningbo has a growing community of expatriates, particularly in business and education sectors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a widely popular sport among locals, with many public courts available for playing.

Badminton

Badminton is a favorite recreational sport, with numerous clubs and facilities throughout the city.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ningbo can be congested, especially during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, with a growing metro system that makes it easy to navigate the city. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ningbo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Food Allergies

Always inform the restaurant staff of any allergies, as many dishes may contain seafood or nuts.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ningbo has a range of healthcare facilities, including public hospitals and private clinics that cater to both locals and foreigners. Major hospitals are equipped with modern medical technology and often have English-speaking staff. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while in China.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide