Ningde Travel Guide

Small Ningde has vast territory and abundant resources, with many travel treasures waiting to be discovered. Topographically, it leans against mountains and faces the sea; the northwestern part is covered by continuous green mountains. Although they are not high in altitude, it's precisely because they are not high that these mountains become our backyard. At the same time, as a coastal city, Ningde has a long coastline. The areas around Xiapu and Fuding are great places to see the sea, with exceptionally rich mudflats and island resources. Speaking of which, though I'm a local, I had never seen the real sea before college... Sometimes people are really like frogs at the bottom of a well—even though the sea surrounds us, if you never venture out, you think it's unreachable. As someone who considers himself a travel enthusiast, I have some free time, so I'll talk to you about the mountains and waters of Ningde worth visiting.

The tourism industry in Ningde is not yet mature. The most promoted offline attraction is the World Geopark consisting of Taimu Mountain and Baishuiyang, while many island resources and surrounding mountain areas remain undeveloped. But the scenery is undeniably beautiful. If you have the courage, gather two or three friends and go explore.

Part One: Places I've visited~

First, I think of Taimu Mountain Scenic Area, a relatively mature tourist attraction in Ningde with fairly complete surrounding facilities. When I went a few years ago, I took the train to Taimu Mountain Station and immediately found minivans going directly to the scenic area. It took about twenty minutes to reach the spot. There were many vendors on the mountain, so you don't have to worry about going hungry. I recommend the mountaintop, the plank paths, and the caves at Taimu Mountain. The summit and plank paths offer beauty, while the caves provide a sense of wonder. If you love adventure, explore the caves; if you're timid or overweight, better skip them.

2. Island Township (Xiyang Island), Macy Island, Fuying Island

Island Township is like a place with a filter for me—I'm afraid I might romanticize it. I once read a travelogue and was attracted by the scenery, so I set off with a sense of adventure. Everything went smoothly—various hitchhiking rides and boats. The views were fantastic, and it was my first real sea voyage, giving me a perfect experience. The sun was just right—if you've never been to an island, it's time to go.

Route: Take a minivan from Mindong Grand Plaza (walk 50 meters toward Wanda) to Cheng'ao Pier, then take a boat to Xiyang Island for one or two days. Then take a boat to nearby Macy and Fuying Islands (collect seashells on Macy Island, pick stones on Fuying Island). The itinerary can be arranged for about three days.

3. Zhouning Chenqiao

The scenery around Chenqiao is very nice, but the area is not well-developed. It's best to drive there for convenience. Chenqiao Village is an ancient village with some simple homestays, but many people prefer to bring their own tents and camp on the mountaintop. During the day, climb the plank paths to see lush greenery and oddly shaped rocks; at night, enjoy some drinks and camp out; early the next morning, watch the sunrise—if you're lucky, you might even see a sea of clouds. Nearby Dishuiyan (Dripping Rock) and Bat Cave are also worth a visit.

4. Huotong Ancient Town

This is a scenic spot relatively close to the city center. Take a bus from the North Station. After getting off, ask pedestrians the direction to the ancient street, and you'll find it easily. Huotong is a relatively old and well-known town in Ningde, famous for its special snacks: Huotong Guangbing (savory flatbread) and Baxian Gao (Eight Immortals cake). At the bridgehead, there used to be a stall selling incredibly tasty meatballs—I wonder if it's still there. The ancient town has a certain cultural depth; some old houses host small exhibitions and historical introductions. The local "string lion" performance is a national intangible cultural heritage—if you're interested, go watch it.

5. Yangzhong Ancient Town

Before going, I didn't know much about Yangzhong—I just thought it was an ordinary township. After visiting, I found the experience better than expected. The ancient town is centered on a road; on the left side are the traditional earth houses of the old village, and on the right side is a leisure walking path. It's suitable for a stroll, and since it's close to the city, you can do a day trip. Yangzhong's ban shui fen (mixed rice noodles) and pig trotter jelly are very famous—recommended.

6. Carp Stream and Jiulongji Waterfall

These two attractions are close to each other and can be visited on the same day. I recommend Jiulongji Scenic Area—the waterfalls are spectacular, the scenery is pleasant, and the hiking intensity is low. Half a day is enough if you take it slow. Carp Stream has less to see—some old houses, a stream in the middle, and a few fish. The cultural immersion is insufficient, leaving no impressive points. Shops are sparse on either side, and the area hasn't developed. If the commercial street could become a highlight, that would be nice.

7. Shouning Xipu Zhuangyuan Lane and Xixi Drifting

This place is suitable for summer visits. I recommend Xixi Drifting—it's really fun. At the time, due to heavy rain and excessive water flow, we only drifted half the course, but it was already thrilling. It's best for two or more people so you can make a ruckus. However, always pay attention to safety in water activities. Xipu Zhuangyuan Lane is also a type of ancient town with nice scenery and relatively developed infrastructure.

8. She Ethnic Village (Baqiandian)

Focused on She ethnic villages, with white walls and black tiles. In summer, there are lotus ponds and grapevines; the scenery is decent, but there aren't many She ethnic elements—it's just a uniformly renovated small village. If they could set up exhibition halls on She culture, costumes, special food experiences, it would be more appealing—and also suitable for children (I feel I'm quite suited for scenic area planning). If you like hiking, after exploring the village, you can climb the Baqian Ding (Eight Immortals Peak) behind—not high, but with an open view from the top.

9. Zherong Yuanyang Grassland

A vast grassland gives a sense of the Great Northwest. It's nice to visit in summer to see the meadows. I've heard that some entertainment facilities like camping and bonfires have been developed—I wonder if that's true. Drop by if it's on your way.

10. Gutian Dajia Mountain area

In March and April, the mountains are covered with blooming rhododendrons, and there are also meadows to see. I suggest joining an outdoor hiking group to go there—the scenery is lovely.

Part Two: To be continued...