Things To Do
in Tongshan
Tongshan is a historic district in Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, known for its rich coal mining heritage and evolving urban landscape. The area blends traditional Huaiyang culture with modern development along the Grand Canal. Visitors can explore scenic lakes, rolling hills, and historic temples dotted throughout the region.
Although less touristy than other Chinese destinations, Tongshan offers authentic local experiences and serene natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the vibrant Tongshan county seat. Wander the bustling morning market stalls brimming with fresh produce and local snacks. Chat with friendly vendors and sample traditional rice cakes.
Explore the county museum to learn about Tongshan’s rich history and cultural heritage. Admire ancient artifacts and detailed exhibits on regional customs. Continue on foot to the scenic municipal garden for a peaceful respite under blooming trees.
Dine at a nearby family-run restaurant serving authentic Hubei specialties like lotus root soup. Enjoy the warm hospitality of local diners and exchange travel stories. Finish the evening with a leisurely walk along the illuminated streets of the town center.
Set off early to Jiugong Mountain National Park and take the scenic cable car to higher elevations. Gaze at mist-shrouded peaks and lush forests unfolding beneath you. Capture sunrise photos from the upper station before beginning your ascent.
Hike one of the winding mountain trails toward the famous Nine Dragons Waterfall. Pause at viewpoints to listen to the symphony of rushing waters and birdsong. Picnic near a clear mountain stream and indulge in simple local delicacies.
Return to the base village and relax in a rustic teahouse overlooking terraced fields. Sip fragrant green tea while local musicians perform traditional folk tunes. Retreat to your guesthouse and enjoy the gentle hush of the mountains at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-5 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $1.50-3 |
| 🚇Bus fare | $0.30-0.50 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (0.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $30-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic local culture and cuisine
- Low travel costs
- Scenic natural landscapes nearby
- Limited English signage
- Fewer tourist amenities
- Humid summers can be uncomfortable
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "多少钱 (Duōshǎo qián)" - How much is it?
Places to Visit in Tongshan
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise and sunset shots over the water with cityscape reflections.
Sweeping vistas, ancient pavilions and misty forestry ideal for landscape photography.
Historic canal bridges, barges and traditional architecture make for striking images.
Food in Tongshan
Tongshan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A nourishing broth with tender lamb chunks, best enjoyed at small local shops near the train station.
Must-Try!
Giant pork meatballs simmered in a light soy broth; try them at neighborhood Huaiyang restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling with vendors selling fried dumplings, sugar-coated haws and stinky tofu.
Early morning market offering fresh produce, noodles and steamed buns.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet older people first and offer seats on public transport.
Avoid politics or sensitive historical issues; focus on food, travel and culture.
Safety
Tipping in Tongshan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Tongshan; small gifts or expressing thanks is sufficient.
Major credit cards are accepted in hotels and upscale restaurants; WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate local transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it perfect for outdoor sightseeing.
Hot and humid with occasional heavy rains; carry an umbrella and light clothing.
Cooler, dry and clear—peak season for hiking and photography.
Chilly with possible frost or light snow; dress warmly and watch for icy paths.
Tongshan at Night
Hiking in Tongshan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A well-marked path leading to ancient pavilions and panoramic lookouts.
Features waterfalls, caves and terraced fields ideal for day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Tongshan by plane.
Approximately 40 km from Tongshan; regular shuttle buses and taxis available.
About 250 km away; high-speed train connections from Xuzhou East Station.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Make up the vast majority of the local population.
A small Muslim community known for halal food stalls.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in parks and community centers across the district.
Many outdoor courts where locals gather in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tongshan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many tofu and vegetable dishes are available but ask for no meat stock in soups.