Nantong(China) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For first-time visitors, stay at InterContinental Nantong, centrally located in Chongchuan District near Haohe Scenic Area and Nantong Museum. The hotel offers modern amenities, spacious rooms, and multilingual staff. Nearby attractions include Wangshan Mountain and Wenfeng Pagoda, making it ideal for cultural exploration. For budget travelers, Home Inn Select Nantong Zhongxiu Road provides clean, well-equipped rooms with excellent value. Both options offer easy access to public transit and local cuisine.

Choose Chongchuan District as your base—Nantong’s cultural and commercial heart. It surrounds Haohe River, a UNESCO-recognized urban lake, and hosts key sites like Nantong Museum, Wenfeng Pagoda, and Zhang Jian Memorial Hall. Staying here ensures walking distance to historic spots and easy access to restaurants, shopping malls like Suning Plaza, and transport hubs. Top choices include Shangri-La Nantong and Ruijing Hotel, both offering comfort and connectivity for seamless sightseeing.

Experience Nantong Kite Making & Flying, a UNESCO-recognized intangible heritage. Join the annual Nantong International Kite Festival along Haohe River, where you can craft traditional "Ban Yao" kites. Visit the Nantong Folk Art Museum to participate in blue-print dyeing workshops using ancient techniques. At night, hike up Wangshan Mountain and visit Guangjiao Temple for panoramic views of the Yangtze River and city lights—a true immersion in the city's identity as the "Jianghai Pearl."

Stay at Yinlu Waterfront Homestay, nestled along Haohe River East Bank, blending classical Suzhou gardens with minimalist design. Its reflective pools, bamboo pathways, and artistic installations create stunning backdrops. Another must-visit: Cloud Up Sky Deck Hotel, featuring a glass rooftop lounge overlooking the skyline and river reflections. Both properties host themed photo events and are close to Nantong Art Museum and Wu Shan Forest Park, ideal for creative shoots.

Haohe Scenic Area is Nantong’s premier riverside destination—10 km of scenic trails encircling the ancient city. Walk past illuminated pagodas, bridges, and historical buildings, especially beautiful at dusk. For expansive views, head to Wangshan Riverside Park, where you can watch cargo ships pass on the Yangtze River. Pair your stroll with a bite of local crab roe soup buns from nearby stalls. Morning walks offer serene beauty; evening visits deliver vibrant city-lake reflections.

Opt for Shangri-La Nantong, located in the financial district near Nantong International Convention Center. Equipped with state-of-the-art conference facilities, large column-free ballrooms, and high-speed internet, it’s perfect for corporate events. The hotel also features executive lounges, business desks, and premium room service. Nearby, Ruijing Hotel offers similar conveniences with proximity to government offices and corporate HQs, making it a top choice for meetings and client hosting.

Must-try Nantong specialties include Crab Roe Soup Buns—delicate, juicy, and bursting with flavor; Clam Stir-Fried Rice Noodles, featuring fresh local clams; and Bai Pu Tea-dried Tofu, a savory-sweet snack with rich aroma. Visit Chenghuang Temple Food Street or Xigongyuan Snack Alley for authentic street food. For a rural twist, head to Yue Lai Town in Hai Men for a freshwater seafood banquet paired with local rice wine—true Jianghai culinary tradition.

Wu Shan National Forest Park is ideal for families, offering forest trails, a children’s adventure zone, and ecological education paths. Explore the Zhang Jian Memorial Garden within the park to learn about China’s industrial pioneer. For marine fun, visit Nantong Ocean World, home to dolphin shows, touch pools, and interactive exhibits. Both venues provide safe, engaging environments for kids while promoting environmental awareness through play.

Take a Haohe Night Cruise for a magical view of illuminated temples and bridges along the ancient lake. Enjoy bustling nights at Wangshan Night Market, filled with street food, crafts, and live music. For culture lovers, catch a concert or play at the Nantong Cultural Arts Center. Don’t miss the Yangtze River Light Show, a synchronized projection and music event celebrating Nantong’s maritime heritage—perfect for photos and relaxation.

The best times to visit are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November)—mild temperatures, low humidity, and lush greenery. Spring brings the Nantong International Kite Festival, while autumn offers ideal hiking weather at Wu Shan Mountain and Haohe River. Summer is hot but manageable with indoor attractions like Ocean World and forest parks. Winter is cool but quiet, with fewer crowds. Avoid peak holidays like National Day and Labor Day for a more peaceful experience.