Ningbo Travel Guide

Ningbo is not typically classified as a tourist city; rather, it is a place rich in cultural heritage and history. One can begin by visiting Tianyi Pavilion, the oldest private library in Asia, to soak in the deep cultural roots of the city. Afterwards, try some fresh seafood at a local eatery. In the evening, head to the Old Bund to enjoy the night view and a breeze along the river. This area, one of the earliest treaty ports in China, offers a glimpse into the city’s historical past.

In May, the bayberry orchards of Cixi are in full bloom, renowned for producing some of the best bayberries in the world. Visitors can climb Mount Mei to pick bayberries and enjoy bayberry wine. During the summer, Ningbo offers various options for a seaside vacation, such as the Songlanshan Beach, or a cool retreat in the Siming Mountains. Autumn is the best time to visit the Shipu Fishing Harbor for a seafood feast, coinciding with the China Fishing Festival held in mid-September.

In winter, the region offers serene hot springs, nestled in lush, green mountains. The Siming Mountains transform into a silver wonderland, with their icy peaks offering a rare spectacle of rime ice, a meteorological phenomenon seldom seen in southern China. This season also provides an opportunity to relax in the hot springs of the Xikou region, surrounded by year-round green mountains and clear, flowing streams.