How to plan a getaway to Ningbo

Occupying pride of place in the eastern fringes of Zhejiang province, Ningbo is an exciting cultural hotspot like no other. Attracting visitors from around the world, this thriving financial epicentre is home to some of the region's finest points of interest. Having served as a major port city in the Chinese Republic, the city was also a vibrant recreational hub for the masses. From timing the visit to finding the best hotels, here are some tips on how to plan a memorable holiday to Ningbo.

1. Time the Holiday

As when planning a getaway in any other vacation destination, timing your visit to coincide with the best weather conditions is a must for all those who are venturing down to Ningbo for the first time. As an area that enjoys a subtropical monsoon weather pattern, the best time to visit the city is during the spring and autumn seasons. Spring usually begins at the end of March while September marks the beginning of autumn and both these seasons provide clear weather conditions ideal for outdoor activities and excursions. Avoid travelling to Ningbo from May to the beginning of September as this is when rainfall is heaviest, making most activities dangerous or inaccessible.

2. Reaching the City


Downtown Ningbo with Tianyi Square|Image via Wikimedia Commons


The most efficient way to reach Ningbo from any corner of China or neighbouring countries the likes of Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and Japan is to hop on a plane headed to Ningbo Lishe International Airport. Macau and Hong Kong island also offer direct flights to the area while those who are heading to Ningbo from China can catch a flight from Beijing, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Shanghai, Shenzhen, Kunming, Xian and Zhengzhou or travel to the Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport located in Hangzhou city and then catch a train or a bus headed for Ningbo, which is situated 130km away from Hangzhou. Bullet trains from nearly every major city offer connections to Ningbo and stop at the Ningbo Railway Station.

3. Getting Around

Visitors based at Pan Pacific Ningbo or any other centrally situated Ningbo hotel will find that they are within walking distance of most of the city's main tourist attractions. Buses, taxi cabs as well as car rental services are available for the convenience of tourists.

4. Make a Sightseeing Itinerary

Depending on the duration of your visit, it is necessary to make a list of all the cultural highlights one hopes to explore during the holiday. While it may not be possible to see everything the city has to offer, there are some highlights all tourists must visit at least once. This includes the historic Tianyi Pavilion which happens to be the oldest library in all of Asia and the three oldest in the world while the Baoguo Temple which was built between 25-220 AD is another must-tour space that's revered for its stunning architecture. The Asoka Temple is no less impressive with its 1700 year history whereas tourists should also stop by the Xikou Scenic Area or the "Abode of Immortals on the Sea" as well as Dongqian Lake to witness the natural beauty of the area. The Ningbo Old Bund is another hotspot in the Downtown area where the history and the architectural legacy of the city are apparent due to its western and Chinese style structures.

5. Top Things to Do

Signing up for activities is also a crucial part of any holiday and those who are planning to vacation in Ningbo can take a biking tour around Dongqian Lake and other picturesque corners of the city. Tricycles and bikes are easily available for rent through private tour operators as well as accommodation providers. Wining and dining in Tianyi Square is another wonderful way to discover local culinary treats in one of the city's top leisure areas.

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