Things To Do
in Changzhou
Changzhou is a historic city in Jiangsu Province set along waterways and ancient routes. It blends Wu cultural heritage with modern industry, creating a distinctive mix of temples, gardens, and contemporary vibes. The city offers family-friendly museums, riverfront promenades, and easy day trips to nearby Jiangnan towns.
Visitors can enjoy a relaxed pace, flavorful Jiangsu cuisine, and welcoming hospitality amid a backdrop of old-town charm and new-city energy.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the historic center of Changzhou, where the ancient architecture whispers tales of the past. Visit the iconic Tianning Temple, known for its towering pagoda and serene atmosphere, perfect for some morning reflection. Enjoy a traditional Chinese breakfast at a nearby local eatery, savoring freshly made baozi and soy milk.
In the afternoon, head to the Changzhou Museum to explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the city's rich cultural heritage. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Dongpo Lake, where you can enjoy the scenic views and the tranquility of nature. Stop by a tea house to experience a traditional tea ceremony, learning about various local teas and their history.
As night falls, indulge in a delightful dinner at a local restaurant known for its Changzhou-style cuisine, such as braised fish and pork dumplings. After dinner, take a stroll through the vibrant streets of the city center, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and street performances. End your day with a visit to a local bar or café, soaking in the nightlife and mingling with locals.
Kick off your day with an exciting visit to the China Dinosaur Park, where you can explore life-sized dinosaur replicas and interactive exhibits. Spend the morning riding attractions that are both thrilling and educational, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. Don't forget to take pictures with the giant dinosaur models that dot the landscape.
After a fun-filled morning, grab lunch at one of the park's themed restaurants that serve delectable dishes inspired by the prehistoric era. Continue your adventure by visiting the park's water attractions, where you can cool off and enjoy some splashy fun. If time permits, catch one of the live performances showcasing dinosaur-themed shows that are entertaining for all ages.
As the sun sets, head back to downtown Changzhou for dinner at a local hot pot restaurant, where you can cook your own ingredients in bubbling broth. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the Grand Canal, enjoying the beautiful reflections of the city lights on the water. Conclude your evening with a visit to a nearby night market, where you can sample various street foods and shop for unique souvenirs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨1-night stay in mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| 🚆Public transit ride | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee or tea beverage | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and picturesque Jiangnan gardens
- Low-to-mid-range travel costs with good value
- Welcoming locals and easy day trips to nearby towns
- Less international nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers in smaller venues
- Some areas can be crowded on weekends and holidays
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪儿？" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
- "你会说英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Changzhou
Visit one of these nice places.
A monumental wooden pagoda with intricate architecture and surrounding courtyards, perfect for sunrise and dusk photography.
A scenic waterway corridor with traditional bridges, willow-lined banks, and atmospheric reflections ideal for golden-hour shots.
A family-friendly park featuring dramatic dinosaur sculptures and themed pathways that create bold, playful photo opportunities.
Representative Jiangnan-style gardens with stone paths, water features, and pavilions for tranquil, detail-rich photography.
Food in Changzhou
Changzhou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A soy-sugar braise with aromatic spices, slow-cooked until the pork is tender and glossy. Often paired with steamed buns or rice.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish lightly fried and coated in a bright, balanced sweet-sour glaze, a Jiangsu staple that showcases regional flavors.
A fragrant stir-fried rice dish with egg, peas, shrimp, and crisp vegetables reflecting Jiangsu culinary influence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling daytime and evening market area where you can sample hot snacks, dumplings, and local bites from many stalls.
Cluster of small eateries offering quick bites, noodle soups, fried snacks, and fresh fruit selections.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite nod or brief smile and say ni hao (hello). Avoid loud conversations in public spaces and queue patiently.
Dress modestly when visiting temples; speak softly and follow posted rules; avoid pointing with feet or touching religious artifacts.
Respect elders, share table space in social dining settings, and use two hands when passing items to someone older or in authority.
Safety
Tipping in Changzhou
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in most ordinary restaurants or markets in Changzhou. In upscale establishments or international hotels, a small tip may be appreciated but is not expected.
Cash, WeChat Pay, and Alipay are widely accepted; many places also support credit cards in larger hotels and restaurants. Always have a small amount of local currency for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming gardens; a great time for outdoor walks and city photography. Expect occasional rain—carry a light umbrella.
Warm to hot and humid; afternoons are often storm-prone. Stay hydrated, wear breathable clothing, and plan outdoor activities for mornings or evenings.
Pleasant and comfortable with clearer skies; ideal for garden visits and canal walks. Pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Cool to cold with possible rain; indoor attractions become very appealing. Layered clothing recommended and heating is common in venues.
Changzhou at Night
Hiking in Changzhou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic urban-rural trail along the canal with flat to gently rolling terrain—great for easy hikes and photography.
Nearby nature reserves and parklands offer shaded trails and opportunities to observe local flora and birds.
Airports
How to reach Changzhou by plane.
The nearest airport, located within the city’s vicinity, with domestic and limited international service and easy ground transport to the city center.
A major international hub about 2.5 to 3 hours away by high-speed train or road; offers extensive connections for onward travel.
A regional hub about 1.5 to 2 hours away by high-speed rail or car, with broad domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The vast majority of residents, with diverse subcultures within Jiangsu.
A sizable student population drawn to local universities and technical colleges.
A growing workforce connected to manufacturing, technology, and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Jiangsu with many clubs and public courts accessible for visitors.
Common in parks and recreation centers; easy to join as a casual player or observer.
Community courts and school facilities are common; pickups occur in parks and fitness areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Changzhou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Seek out vegetable-forward dishes, tofu-based meals, and mushroom preparations; ask about oil (avoid lard) and clarify that you want no animal-based broths. Many places offer tofu maps or vegetable stews as alternatives.