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Getting Around Nantong

Getting Around Nantong

Nantong Jiangsu, China Travel Guide

Public Transportation Systems

Nantong's public transportation system allows city exploration accessible and affordable.

The city has a modern subway system (Line 1 opened 2022, Line 2 opened 2023). These lines form the backbone of urban rail transport, connecting districts and attractions. The underground provides fast, clean, and comfortable city travel.

Network & Fares

  • Metro: Modern system, Line 1 & 2 connect districts.
  • Buses: Extensive network covers city and surrounding areas.
  • Fares: Metro by distance (CNY 2-7); buses flat fare (CNY 1-2).
  • Payment: Mobile payment (Alipay, WeChat Pay) via QR code is dominant.

Route Maps

Metro maps at stations, local navigation apps (Baidu Maps, Amap) for real-time bus/metro routes.

Operating Hours

Metro 6:00 AM - 10:30 PM; Buses 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM (route dependent), higher frequency peak hours.

Accessibility

Newer metro stations include elevators plus ramps. Buses may have limited accessibility.

Navigation Tips

Essential Apps
  • Download Baidu Maps or Amap for real-time info.
  • Have Alipay or WeChat Pay transit QR code ready.
  • Basic Mandarin phrases may be useful, apps often suffice.
Efficient Travel
  • A quick response code readiness saves time at gates/on coaches.
  • Use apps for route planning and bus tracking.
  • Public transport for affordable city travel.

Payment & Etiquette

Cash

Exact change for buses.

Cards

Nantong Tong Card for convenience.

Mobile

Scan A quick response code for metro/bus.

Etiquette

Offer seats to elderly/pregnant.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing provide convenient point-to-point travel in Nantong.

Licensed Taxis

  • Identification: Blue or green, '出租汽车' displayed.
  • Hailing: On street (avoid restricted areas) or at stands.
  • Fares: Metered system, starting CNY 10-12.
  • Payment: Cash, WeChat Pay, or Alipay accepted.

Ride-Sharing with DiDi

  • DiDi Chuxing: Dominant app, similar to Uber/Lyft.
  • Registration: Local Chinese phone number required.
  • Payment: Link international credit card via Alipay/WeChat Pay.
  • Safety: App tracks journey, driver/vehicle details; confirm matches.

Taxi & Ride-Share Safety

  • Use licensed taxis, avoid unmarked cars.
  • Confirm meter on, or price via app (DiDi).
  • DiDi app tracks journey, adds security.
  • Be watchful for touts at airports/stations.
  • Verify DiDi driver/license plate with app info.
  • Decline suspicious offers for rides.

Local Rental Options

Car Rental

International Driving Permit (IDP) NOT valid. A temporary Chinese license is required, complex for short-term tourists.

Motorcycle/Scooter

Requires Chinese motorcycle license, difficult for tourists. Electric bikes/scooters rentable via apps (Meituan, HelloBike).

Bicycle Sharing

Extremely popular via apps. Register with local phone/mobile payment. Excellent for exploring parks/Hao River.

Walking & Cycling Routes

Nantong has pleasant environments for walking and cycling, especially in its lush areas and by its waterways.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Hao River Scenic Area: Kilometers of scenic pathways, historical bridges, green spaces.
  • Wenfeng Park: Beautiful city park, Wenfeng Pagoda, pleasant gardens.
  • Commercial Zones: Some pedestrianized avenues for shopping/dining.
  • Self-guided walks: Easily create with route planning apps, guidebooks.

Cycling & Safety

  • Bike Infrastructure: Dedicated bike lanes in newer city parts and along highways.
  • Safety: Aware of traffic, pedestrians, electric scooters; observe rules.
  • No-Go Areas: Major highways and industrial zones unsafe for pedestrians/cyclists.
  • Busy Main Roads: Exercise caution, stick to sidewalks if possible.

Specialized Transport Options

Tour Buses

Few services for travelers from other countries; typically part of organized group tours.

Hao River Cruises

Scenic boat cruises for leisure; see historical sites, city lights from water.

Langshan Cable Car

Offers scenic ascent to Langshan Mountain top, convenient for non-hikers.

Accessibility & Planning

General Limitations
  • Accessibility generally limited in older city parts.
  • Public buses could have restricted access features.
  • International hotels typically more accessible than local establishments.
Advance Planning
  • Contact attractions/transport providers about accessibility features.
  • Newer metro stations better access with elevators/ramps.
  • Aids for mobility challenges can make travel simpler.

Road Safety & Driving Laws

  • China drives on the right side of the road.
  • Traffic laws strictly enforced; local driving habits aggressive.
  • Parking challenging and expensive in city centers.
  • International Driving Permits are NOT valid.
  • Major roads/highways well-maintained; urban roads can be busy.
  • Self-driving not a viable option for most tourists.
  • Use great caution if you somehow obtain a local license.
  • Follow designated paths and sidewalks for safety.

Navigating with Ease

Efficient travel in Nantong a blend of local options.

Optimizing Movement

  • Combine metro for longer distances with bike sharing.
  • Bike sharing/walking for specific neighborhood exploration.
  • DiDi for comfort and direct routes.
  • Local apps for real-time guidance.

Seamless Connectivity

  • Ensure VPN active for internet access.
  • Mobile payment prepared for all transactions.
  • Enjoy pedestrian-friendly areas.
  • Embrace diverse transport modes.

Cost-Effective Commuting

Metro

Fast, clean, affordable urban rail.

  • Lines 1 & 2
  • QR payment
  • CNY 2-7 fare
Bus

Extensive, economical city coverage.

  • Many routes
  • QR/cash payment
  • CNY 1-2 fare
Bike Share

Very low the fee for short distances.

  • Apps for rental
  • Meituan, HelloBike
  • CNY 1-2 / 30 minutes

Driving Restrictions

Foreign Licenses
  • IDP not recognized.
  • Temporary local license difficult.
  • Self-driving generally unfeasible.
Local Traffic
  • Aggressive driving habits.
  • Heavy congestion common.
  • Parking a challenge.

Specialized Local Transport

Nantong features a few specialized transportation alternatives that enhance the tourist experience.

Waterway Exploration

  • Hao River Cruises: Scenic boat tours, see historical sites, city lights from water.
  • These are leisure cruises, not a mode of daily transport.
  • Yangtze River: Passenger amenities on the main river limited to occasional tourist excursions.
  • No regular transit on the Yangtze.

Altitude Access

  • Langshan Cable Car: Operates at Langshan Scenic Area.
  • Scenic way to ascend to the top of Langshan Mountain.
  • Suitable if you prefer not to hike or have mobility challenges.
  • No funiculars or other highly unique local transport systems.

Tour Buses

Limited services for international visitors, generally part of organized group tours.

Accessibility Services

Generally limited in Nantong, especially on local buses and in older parts of the city.

Planning Ahead

If you have mobility challenges, contact attractions or travel providers in advance.

General Accessibility

Modern Metro
  • Newer Nantong Metro stations.
  • Features elevators for mobility needs.
  • Ramps make stations accessible.
Other Transport
  • Public buses could have restricted access.
  • Older parts of the city pose challenges.
  • International hotels typically more accessible.

Local Transport Guidance

For time-saving travel, combine the metro for longer distances with bicycle sharing or walking for exploring specific neighborhoods.

DiDi is always a great option for comfort and direct routes.

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