Yancheng (盐城 Yánchéng) is a prefecture-level city on the east coast of Jiangsu Province. Yancheng is home to the world’s largest coastal wetlands and is a haven for rare bird species, including the endangered red-crowned crane and the milu deer. It offers a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.
Understand
[edit]Yancheng was founded in 119 BC named after the salt harvest fields that surround the city. The city’s name, meaning "Salt City", reflects its historical role as a major salt-producing center.
The best times to visit are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild.
Get in
[edit]By train
[edit]1 Yancheng Station (盐城站). You can take a train directly to the center of Yancheng City. There are trains departing from Shanghai and Hangzhou to reach Yancheng.
By air
[edit]Yancheng Nanyang International Airport (YNZ) receives flights from several domestic destinations, including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, from a few international destinations like Seoul and Taipei. The airport is around 15 km from the city center, and taxis or buses are available for transfers.
By bus
[edit]Yancheng’s long-distance bus stations provide services from surrounding cities in Jiangsu Province and neighboring provinces. Buses are a cost-effective way to travel between cities.
By car
[edit]Yancheng is well connected by expressways, including the G15 Shenyang-Haikou Expressway. It is about a 3-hour drive from Nanjing and 4 hours from Shanghai, making it accessible by road for those traveling from major cities.
Get around
[edit]Bus: Yancheng has an extensive city bus system, covering most areas and attractions. Buses are affordable and convenient for local travel.
Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis are widely available, and ridesharing apps like Didi are commonly used for getting around the city. Fares are relatively inexpensive compared to other larger cities.
Bicycle: Bike-sharing services, such as Mobike and Hellobike, are available throughout the city, making it easy to explore at a leisurely pace.
See
[edit]- Salt marshes
- Salt production sites: Learn about the city’s history of salt production by visiting local museums and historical sites. You can also observe traditional salt-making techniques that have been passed down through generations.
- [dead link] China Sea Salt Museum (中国海盐博物馆), No. 1 Kaifang Avenue (开放大道1号), ☏ +86 515 89902306, [email protected]. Tu-Su 09:00-17:00, closed on Mondays. Free.
Do
[edit]- Birdwatching: Yancheng is renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, especially at the Yancheng National Rare Birds Nature Reserve. The winter season is the best time to see the red-crowned cranes, along with other migratory birds. The coast of Yancheng Prefecture has been listed as a natural world heritage site under the name "Migratory Bird Sanctuaries along the Coast of Yellow Sea-Bohai Gulf of China".
- Coastal wetlands: The coastal wetlands of Yancheng are some of the most ecologically diverse areas in China. Guided eco-tours are available, offering a chance to explore these unique environments and learn about local conservation efforts.
- Cycling and hiking: Yancheng’s coastal parks and reserves offer excellent opportunities for cycling and hiking. Dongtai Huanghai Forest Park and the nature reserves provide scenic trails for nature lovers.
Buy
[edit]- Local salt products: As a city known for its salt production, Yancheng offers a variety of high-quality salt products, including gourmet sea salts and salt-based skincare items.
- Milu deer souvenirs: Unique souvenirs related to the milu deer, such as figurines, paintings, and other memorabilia, can be found in shops near the nature reserves.
- Local crafts: Yancheng is home to several traditional crafts, including intricate paper cutting and handmade ceramics, which make for unique gifts and keepsakes.
Eat
[edit]- Saltwater Duck: A local specialty, this dish is prepared by marinating duck in a saltwater brine before roasting, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. It is a must-try for visitors to Yancheng.
- Dafeng Crab: Yancheng’s coastal location makes it a great place for seafood. The crabs from the Dafeng area are particularly prized for their sweet, delicate flavor.
- Seafood Hotpot: A popular dish in Yancheng, seafood hotpot features a rich broth filled with local seafood, vegetables, and spices. It’s perfect for a hearty meal, especially during the cooler months.
- Steamed Fish: Freshwater and saltwater fish are commonly served in Yancheng. One popular preparation is steaming the fish with ginger and scallions, allowing the natural flavors of the fish to shine.
Drink
[edit]- Yellow Sea Salt Beer: Some local breweries have started producing craft beers that incorporate sea salt from the nearby Yellow Sea, offering a unique twist on traditional brews.
- Herbal Teas: Yancheng locals enjoy a variety of herbal teas, often made with local ingredients like chrysanthemum and goji berries. These teas are refreshing and are believed to have health benefits.
- Rice Wine: Try locally made rice wine, a traditional Chinese alcoholic beverage that is slightly sweet and often served warm. It is especially popular during festive occasions.
Sleep
[edit]- Luxury hotels: Yancheng has several high-end hotels, such as the Yancheng Marriott Hotel and DoubleTree by Hilton, which offer modern amenities and comfortable accommodations in central locations.
- Mid-range hotels: Options like the Holiday Inn Yancheng and Jinling Hotel provide affordable yet comfortable stays, with easy access to local attractions and dining options.
- Budget hotels: For budget-conscious travelers, there are numerous affordable options, such as 7 Days Inn and Hanting Hotel, offering clean and convenient rooms.
- Eco-lodges: Some eco-lodges near Yancheng’s nature reserves offer a more immersive experience, allowing visitors to stay close to the natural landscapes and wildlife they’ve come to explore.
Connect
[edit]Go next
[edit]- Nanjing: About 3 hours away by car or train, Nanjing is one of China’s most historically significant cities, offering attractions such as the Nanjing Massacre Memorial, Sun Yat-sen’s Mausoleum, and the Confucius Temple.
- Yangzhou: Known for its classical gardens and ancient canals, Yangzhou is about 2.5 hours away by car or train and is a beautiful place to explore traditional Chinese architecture and culture.
- Lianyungang: Situated to the north, Lianyungang is a coastal city known for Mount Huaguo, the inspiration for the famous “Journey to the West” legend, and its beautiful beaches.
- Shanghai: About 4 hours by train or car, Shanghai is a modern metropolis with a blend of colonial history, cutting-edge architecture, and vibrant nightlife, making it a great destination for travelers seeking a more cosmopolitan experience.
This guide offers a detailed look into Yancheng, combining its natural wonders with historical charm for an enriching travel experience.