Zhenjiang

Zhenjiang combines the hills and waterways of Jiangnan with the bustle of everyday local life. Explore its “Three Hills and One Ferry Crossing,” then try pot-lid noodles and aromatic vinegar. September and October bring cool weather, making them good months for exploring the city on foot.

• Jinshan Temple, Zhenjiang: Famous for the legend of the White Snake flooding Jinshan, this temple is built around the hillside, creating the distinctive effect of a “temple wrapping around a hill.” Red walls and green roof tiles add to its character.

• Xijin Ferry, Zhenjiang: This historic ferry district dates back a thousand years. Stone-paved lanes complement the Yuan-dynasty Zhaoguan Stone Pagoda, and the streets are ideal for a leisurely walk when the lights come on at dusk.

• Beigu Hill, Zhenjiang: Beigu Hill is steeped in Three Kingdoms stories and poetry from across the centuries. Climb Beigu Tower in Zhenjiang for sweeping views of the Yangtze River and a sense of the expansive scenery described by the poet Xin Qiji.

• Jiao Hill, Zhenjiang: Surrounded by the river and known as “floating jade in the river,” Jiao Hill is reached by boat. The island has an extensive collection of stone inscriptions and plenty of cats. Climb Wanfo Pagoda in Zhenjiang for views over the river.

• Zhenjiang Museum: Housed in the former British consulate, which dates back more than a century, the museum combines Chinese and Western architectural styles. It has a wide-ranging collection, and admission is free.

• Jingji Road, Zhenjiang: This century-old hillside street stretches for about 500 meters, with Republican-era buildings and small shops along the way. Its quiet atmosphere makes it a pleasant place to slow down and explore.

Suggested Itinerary

• Day 1 (Culture and Night Views): Visit Jinshan Temple in the morning, then try pot-lid noodles nearby for lunch. In the afternoon, stroll along Jingji Road and Boxian Road to admire the Republican-era architecture. Head to Xijin Ferry's old streets toward evening, visit Zhaoguan Stone Pagoda, and watch the sunset from Yuntai Pavilion in Zhenjiang. Enjoy the illuminated streets at night and stop by nearby Zhenjiang Museum along the way.
• Day 2 (River Views and Quiet Escapes): Climb Beigu Hill in the morning to explore Three Kingdoms relics and enjoy views of the Yangtze River. In the afternoon, take a boat to Jiao Hill to see the stone inscriptions, climb Wanfo Pagoda, and spend some time watching the island's cats. If time allows, head to Yong'an Road Market in Zhenjiang toward evening for local snacks and a glimpse of everyday life.

Local Foods to Try

Zhenjiang's food reflects Huaiyang cooking traditions, with noodles and other wheat-based foods, along with freshwater fish and seafood, among its specialties.

• Zhenjiang Pot-Lid Noodles: A common local breakfast, these chewy noodles come in a rich broth with toppings such as swamp eel, sliced pork kidney, or beef. Add Zhenjiang aromatic vinegar for extra flavor.

• Zhenjiang Crystal Pork: One of Zhenjiang's “Three Oddities,” this dish is made from cured, air-dried pork hock with a translucent appearance. Served with aromatic vinegar and shredded ginger, it is rich and succulent without being greasy.

• Crab Roe Soup Dumplings: These thin-skinned dumplings are generously filled and hold a flavorful broth. Open a small hole first to let the heat escape, then sip the soup slowly.

• Zhenjiang Pufferfish Feast: Professionally prepared pufferfish has tender flesh and plenty of gelatin. Often braised with bur clover, it produces a flavorful broth and is one of the area's river-fish specialties.

Accommodation and Transport Guide

• Where to Stay: Consider staying near Xijin Ferry in Zhenjiang or the Dashikou shopping district. Both are in the city center, with taxi rides to the main attractions usually taking about 10 minutes. They also offer convenient dining and evening transport.

• High-Speed Rail: When booking tickets, consider Zhenjiang Railway Station, which is close to the city center and main attractions. Zhenjiang South Railway Station is farther out, so allow time for a taxi ride into town.
• Getting Around: Zhenjiang's urban attractions are fairly close together. Shared electric scooters are convenient for short trips and offer a chance to enjoy the riverside scenery. You can also buy a 48-hour combined attraction ticket through the “Zhenjiang Hui Chuxing” mini program for about RMB 99, covering the Three Hills and Nanshan.

Travel Tips

• Boats to Jiao Hill: Reaching Jiao Hill usually requires a ferry ride. During peak season, the last boat is around 17:30, so plan ahead. You can also enter the island directly through Jiao Hill's east gate.
• Free Alternatives: If you do not buy a ticket for Beigu Hill, visit Beigu Hill Pier or Ganlu Ferry Pier and enjoy the river breeze from the boardwalks. For a distant view of Jinshan Temple, head to Jinshan Lake Park in Zhenjiang, opposite the temple.
• Buying Vinegar: If you are buying Zhenjiang aromatic vinegar as a gift, local supermarkets generally offer better prices than tourist attractions. At the attractions, you can also try Zhenjiang aromatic vinegar cola, which has a mild vinegar flavor and a distinctive taste.