Best Travel Guide Ningbo | ArrivalGuides.com

NingboGuide was updated: 2024-11-19

Discover Ningbo, one of China's oldest cities and a vibrant international hub with a rich history. The birthplace of the Neolithic Hemudu culture, Ningbo translates from Mandarin as "the Serene Waves". Located on the shores of Hangzhou Bay, it is a long-established international trading port. With the Hangzhou Bridge, the longest trans-oceanic link in the world, Ningbo is now directly connected to Shanghai. Perhaps Ningbo's greatest distinction is the Tianyi Pavilion — the oldest library in all of China.

Do & See

Many of Ningbo's attractions lie outside the city limits. The countryside boasts an abundance of scenic natural areas, home to striking Buddhist temples that are perfect for a day trip. Tiantong and Baoguo temples are among the most popular with visitors. Venture even further out to the unspoiled Yushan Island. Inside Ningbo, must-see sights include China's oldest library, Tianyi, the historic Drum Tower and surrounding area, and the Laowaitan neighbourhood at night.

Tianyi Ge / 天一阁

The city's main attraction and a huge source of pride, the Tianyi Library is the most historical library in Asia. The library complex contains multiple historic artefacts and is a pleasure to simply walk around and admire the ancient building while strolling through tranquil gardens and courtyards.

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Moon Lake Park / 月湖公园

Yuehu, which literally means Moon Lake, is in the south-west of Ningbo, was first turned into a cultural and academic centre during the Song and Yuan Dynasties. Nowadays it is the main recreation area for many locals who come to play chess, practise the martial art of Tai Chi, dance or just enjoy the beautiful views.

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Drum Tower / 鼓楼

Constructed during the Tang Dynasty, the Drum Tower is the only remaining city gate tower in Ningbo. Atop the tower stands a six-metre-high Romanesque bell tower, a later addition from the Republic period. The base of the tower is surrounded by a commercial area, with buildings reconstructed in the traditional style.

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Tianfeng Pagoda / 天封塔

Tianfeng Pagoda predates Ningbo city by 120 years. In ancient times, it served as a lighthouse, guiding passing ships. Today, visitors can climb the stairs to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

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Old Bund / 老外滩

Step back in time at the Old Bund (Laowaitan), where the architectural legacy of Ningbo's cosmopolitan past comes alive. English, French, German, and Dutch-style buildings evoke memories of the 1930s and 1940s in this once-bustling international hub. Today, the area offers a variety of evening venues, many of which operate primarily during the summer months.

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Yushan Island / 渔山列岛

For a scenic day trip, head to the beautiful and secluded Yushan Island. Tourist infrastructure is limited here, with only a few resorts and a picturesque lighthouse set against the backdrop of crystal-blue seawater. At night, you might even witness the magical blue tears, a phenomenon of mysterious blue lights spotted along Yushan Island's shores, caused by small crustaceans that are washed up on the island's beaches by the rising tides.

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Population:	9.6 million
Currency:	1 RMB (renminbi, also known as Chinese yuán) =10 jiǎo
Emergency Numbers:	Police: 110 Ambulance: 120 Fire: 119
Newspapers:	Ningbo Daily (in Chinese and English) China Daily: www.chinadaily.com.cn
Opening Hours:	Office hours are 9am–5:30pm, from Monday to Friday. Banks are open 9am–4pm on weekends. Most malls and supermarkets close at 10pm.
Tourist Information:	Ningbo Old Bund Tourist Service Center Old Bund Scenic Area, 157-159 Zhongma Lu, Ningbo