MileHacker Logo
Things to Do in Ningbo

Things to Do in Ningbo

Ningbo Zhejiang, China Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Ningbo's surrounding landscapes present ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and physical activity.

Hiking & Biking

Xikou Scenic Area

Offers various hiking trails, from easy walks around temples to more challenging mountain treks.

Siming Mountain

Further inland, it features beautiful mountain scenery and strenuous hiking, known for autumn foliage.

Dongqian Lake

Has gentle walking and cycling paths suitable for every level, perfect for a relaxed stroll or brisk walk.

Water & Adventure Sports

  • Dongqian Lake has boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and other recreational water activities.
  • Adventure sports are limited within Ningbo city. Some scenic areas like Xikou might feature zip-lining.
  • Wildlife viewing is not a main activity, limited to common urban fowl and small animals in parks.
  • Camping is not common within Ningbo city. Designated areas in surrounding nature parks exist.

Boating on Dongqian Lake

  • Rent equipment originating at the lakeside resorts.
  • Enjoy the scenic views from the water.
  • Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular.

Cycling Around Dongqian Lake

  • Dedicated paths offer scenic routes.
  • Bicycle rentals are available around the lake.
  • Suitable for all fitness levels.

Mountain Trekking

  • Explore trails in Xikou Scenic Area.
  • Challenging routes exist in Siming Mountain.
  • Prepare for different types of ground and elevations.

Safety Note for Outdoor Activities

Always check weather conditions and inform others of your plans before outdoor adventures. Some areas may call for permits or guides.

Cultural Immersion

Dive into Ningbo's rich culture through interactive experiences and traditional events.

Workshops & Classes

  • Opportunities exist through local cultural centers or private studios for customary Chinese painting or calligraphy.
  • Tea ceremonies: Some traditional tea shops may hold demonstrations, giving insight into this ancient practice.
  • Community-based tourism: Less formal in Ningbo city, but possible in surrounding rural towns.
  • Language learning: Universities (Ningbo University) hold Chinese language programs. Short-term private tutoring can be arranged.

Performances & Festivals

Ningbo Grand Theatre

Holds larger-scale performances including opera, ballet, concerts, and plays.

Traditional Ceremonies

Chashitsu may offer demonstrations. Local shrines and cultural organizations host events during traditional Chinese festivals.

Cultural Festivals

Chinese New Year (Spring Festival), Qingming Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival are major cultural events.

Community Interactions

Interact with local artisans or villagers in surrounding rural communities for a personal perspective on local life.

Chinese New Year

Celebrated with family gatherings, temple fairs, and fireworks. A major cultural event worth experiencing.

Mid-Autumn Festival

Family reunions, eating mooncakes, and admiring the moon. A cherished tradition in China.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find moments of peace and rejuvenation during your Ningbo visit.

Spa & Hot Springs

  • Luxury hotels often hold well-equipped spas, presenting a range of treatments.
  • Independent massage parlors and foot massage centers are common throughout the city.
  • Ningbo Tiangong Hot Spring (Siming Mountain area) features natural hot spring facilities.
  • This requires a day trip but has a therapeutic experience for relaxation.

Mind & Body

Yoga & Meditation

Some private studios hold yoga classes. Meditation retreats are occasionally held at larger Buddhist temples like Tiantong Temple.

Traditional Healing

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) clinics are widespread in Ningbo, offering acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other treatments.

Pool Clubs

Luxury hotels typically feature indoor or outdoor swimming pools. Beach clubs are not a feature within the city.

Wellness Resources

Hotel Spas

Often hold high-quality services and amenities for guests.

Local Massage

Widely available and many times affordable throughout the city.

Nature Retreats

Siming Mountain hot springs for tranquility and therapeutic experiences.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Explore Ningbo's evening scene, from live music to late-night eats.

Live Entertainment

  • Old Bund: Several taverns and bars hold live music (jazz, pop, cover bands).
  • Ningbo Grand Theatre: Formal performances including plays, operas, and concerts.
  • KTV (Karaoke Television): A highly popular form of entertainment across China, with numerous venues.
  • Shopping Malls: Some larger complexes may host occasional musical acts or performances.

Nightlife Zones

Old Bund

The main district for bars, pubs, and lively nightclubs, presenting a mix of local and international styles.

Tianyi Square

Some entertainment complexes and clubs around this area also contribute to the city's nightlife.

Late-Night Dining

Many restaurants and street food stalls remain open late, presenting numerous late-night culinary selections.

Bars & Pubs

Old Bund district is where a mix of local and international bars operate, suitable for a relaxed drink or a more energetic evening.

Nightclubs & Dancing

The Old Bund area is a concentration of nightclubs and dance venues for those seeking a lively night out.

Late-Night Street Food

Beyond sit-down restaurants, many street food stalls remain open late, offering quick and tasty options for a late-night bite.

Nightlife Safety Advice

Remain aware of your surroundings, especially late at night. Plan your transportation beforehand and don't walk alone in dimly lit areas.

Shopping & Markets

Discover Ningbo's retail landscape, from traditional markets to modern shopping complexes.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Gulou Pedestrian Street: Features traditional shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and snacks.
  • Artisan workshops: Limited dedicated workshops in city center, but some shops on Gulou or Cicheng sell handcrafted items.
  • Flower, Bird, Fish & Insect Market: A glimpse into local hobbies and culture.
  • Local Wet Markets (e.g., Baizhang Road Market): For fresh produce, seafood, and everyday goods, an authentic local shopping experience.

Souvenir Recommendations

Local Delicacies

Pre-packaged Ningbo Tangyuan, dried seafood, and various fish snacks.

Regional Products

Local tea from surrounding tea regions offers a taste of Zhejiang to take home.

Traditional Crafts

Small wood carvings, delicate paper-cuttings, and local embroidery make unique gifts.

Luxury Shopping

  • Tianyi Square: Department stores, international brands.
  • InCity (印象城): Large modern shopping mall.
  • Raffles City Ningbo: Newer mixed-use development.

Modern Malls

  • Tianyi Square: Major shopping complex.
  • InCity: Wide range of brands.
  • Raffles City: Shopping, dining, entertainment.

Shopping Districts

  • Tianyi Square is a central hub.
  • Old Bund has stylish shops and specialty stores.
  • Gulou Pedestrian Street for traditional shopping.

Shopping Guidance

Ethical Shopping
  • Support local artisans and businesses.
  • Be mindful of purchasing items from endangered species, which is illegal.
  • Choose products that contribute positively to the area's economy and environment.
Shipping & Customs
  • Major international courier services (DHL, FedEx, UPS) operate in Ningbo for shipping items home.
  • Be aware of customs regulations and duties for your home country when sending goods.
  • Factor in any potential tariffs or taxes upon arrival.

Shopping Tip

Bargaining is common in traditional markets but not typically expected in modern malls or chain stores.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor & Cultural

  • Explore Xikou Scenic Area for hiking or Siming Mountain for nature.
  • Cycle around Dongqian Lake for scenic views and recreation.
  • Attend a local cooking class or take a guided food tour.
  • Experience a traditional tea ceremony or observe a cultural performance.

Leisure & Shopping

  • Relax at a luxury hotel spa or indulge in a traditional Chinese massage.
  • Enjoy the nightlife at Old Bund with live music or KTV.
  • Shop for one-of-a-kind keepsakes and crafts on Gulou Pedestrian Street.
  • Visit Tianyi Square or InCity for modern brands and high-end boutiques.