Nantang Old Street (南塘老街), located in Ningbo City, is a charming and distinctive commercial street with a rich historical legacy dating back to the Ming Dynasty. Initially serving as the largest market near the southern gate of Ningbo, it is recognized as one of the city’s eight historical districts. Over time, the narrow lanes gradually extended, preserving over 300 meters of traditional streets and alleys, adorned with one cultural heritage unit and six cultural heritage sites.
Today, the old street is divided into two sections: North Street and South Street, with Zuguanshan Road serving as the boundary. North Street exudes a traditional cultural ambiance intertwined with commercial vibrancy, emphasizing urban tourism development. On the other hand, South Street embraces the concept of “urban leisure,” highlighting a laid-back lifestyle.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Nantang Old Street
- Vlog about Nantang Old Street
- Attractions near Nantang Old Street
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 – 2 hours |
| Ticket Price | Free |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 21.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0574-87306555 |
Location and Transportation
Nantang Old Street is located at 236 Nanjiao Road, Haishu District, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province. It is situated slightly south of the city center. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 6, 161, 362, 510, 513, 525, or 637 and get off Yinfeng Road Zuguanshan Road Intersection Stop (鄞奉路祖关山路口站).
Metro: The closest metro station to Nantang Old Street is Ningbo Railway Station (宁波火车站) on line 2 and line 4. After getting out of the station from Exit B, walk about 800 meters to the south to reach the area.
Highlights of Nantang Old Street
Ancient Buildings
The architectural charm of Nantang Old Street is striking. Although most buildings have undergone renovation and appear as ancient replicas, the area boasts the largest preserved cluster of Yuan family residences, comprising residential courtyards, ancestral halls, schools, and more. Additionally, cultural heritage buildings such as Yongshanting Pavilion, Guansheng Temple, and Yongshui Bridge stand as testaments to Ningbo’s historical and cultural heritage, offering visitors insight into the city’s past.
Culinary delights
Culinary delights are another highlight of Nantang Old Street. The street is a culinary melting pot, offering a plethora of snacks from across the country, especially Ningbo’s traditional delicacies and time-honored establishments. From Ningbo cuisine to tangyuan (glutinous rice balls) and youzanzi (deep-fried dough twists), each dish tantalizes the taste buds. Moreover, the street boasts modern leisure spots, including cafes, tea houses, and restaurants with exotic flavors, ideal for family gatherings and socializing with friends.
Adjacent to Nantang Old Street flows a tranquil river, adding to the area’s picturesque charm. Sitting in the riverside pavilions, visitors can bask in the gentle breeze and watch the clear water flow, enjoying a sense of tranquility and serenity.
Cultural Activities
Furthermore, Nantang Old Street frequently hosts various cultural activities, such as intangible cultural heritage markets, providing visitors with opportunities to delve deeper into Ningbo’s cultural and historical traditions while savoring delectable cuisines and admiring scenic beauty. Nantang Old Street is not just a place to shop and dine; it’s a journey through time, culture, and culinary delights, offering a delightful blend of history, tradition, and modernity.
