Things To Do
in Nanning
Nanning is the capital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region in southern China, blending modern development with lush greenery and a gateway to Guangxi’s ethnic cultures. The city is famously green, earning its nickname the Green City thanks to numerous parks, tree-lined boulevards, and riverfront promenades. It offers a convenient base for exploring nearby mountains, minority heritage, and iconic river scenes along the Yong River.
With a growing dining scene and easy access to nature, Nanning pairs urban energy with a relaxed subtropical vibe.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Nanning People's Park, where you can enjoy the morning tranquility and see locals practicing tai chi. Afterward, explore the ancient architecture of the Nanning Mosque, admiring its unique blend of Islamic and Chinese design. Don’t forget to grab a traditional breakfast at a nearby street vendor, trying local delicacies like rice noodle soup.
In the afternoon, head to the Guangxi Museum of Nationalities to learn about the diverse cultures that make up this region. The museum's exhibits showcase vibrant traditional attire and artifacts from various ethnic groups. Following your cultural experience, take a leisurely stroll along the Yong River, enjoying the scenic views and vibrant local life.
As night falls, visit the bustling Night Market on Minzu Avenue, where you can sample a wide array of street foods and local snacks. The atmosphere is lively, filled with music and laughter, making it a perfect spot to immerse yourself in Nanning's nightlife. End your evening with a relaxing walk along the riverbank, illuminated by the city lights.
Spend your morning hiking up Qingxiu Mountain, where the lush greenery and beautiful temples create a serene environment. Enjoy the fresh air as you navigate the trails, taking in stunning views of Nanning from various lookout points. Take a moment to meditate at one of the peaceful pagodas scattered throughout the mountain.
After your hike, visit the nearby Qingxiu Mountain Scenic Area, where you can explore its well-maintained gardens and tranquil lakes. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, perhaps sampling some local rice cakes. Consider renting a paddleboat for a fun experience on the water, enjoying the views from a different perspective.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through the scenic area, where the soft lighting enhances the beauty of the gardens. Find a cozy spot to sit and reflect on your day while watching the stars appear overhead. For dinner, indulge in a local restaurant back in the city, trying out signature dishes like braised duck with bamboo shoots.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥡Mid-range lunch for two | $12-25 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-70 |
| 🚆Public transport pass per day | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent access to Guangxi’s nature and ethnic culture
- Green, walkable city with pleasant riverfront areas
- Strong street food scene and affordable dining
- Growing metro and public transit for easy travel
- Hot, humid summers and some seasonal rain
- Language barriers in markets outside tourist zones
- Limited English in some local eateries outside major districts
- Developing infrastructure may mean occasional delays during peak travel periods
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪里？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡吗？" - Can I pay by card?
- "我可以试穿吗？" - Can I try this on?
- "帮忙" - Help, please
- "请给我菜单" - Please give me the menu
- "我是游客" - I am a tourist
- "再见" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Nanning
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush forest trails, temples, and sweeping views over Nanning make for dramatic sunrise or sunset shots.
A calm lakeside setting with pavilions, bridges, and swan boats—great for tranquil landscape and reflection photography.
Riverside promenades offer city silhouettes at golden hour and lively street scenes after dark.
Green spaces, ponds, and traditional pavilions provide classic park photography with locals enjoying daily life.
Architectural blends and colorful decorations nearby offer opportunities for cultural portraits and architecture shots.
Food in Nanning
Nanning Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Snail rice noodle with a sour, spicy broth, pickled vegetables, and peanuts. A must-try street staple with regional intensity.
Must-Try!
A aromatic hotpot featuring fresh river fish, herbs, and local greens—great for sharing with friends.
Herbal herbal jelly dessert often served chilled, refreshing after a spicy meal.
Stir-fried rice noodles with vegetables and choice of proteins; a common everyday dish across Guangxi eateries.
Chilled, marinated chicken with fragrant spices; a popular lighter option in Guangxi homes and restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant riverfront night market offering Luosifen, skewers, and local snacks with a lively evening atmosphere.
A cluster of informal stalls where you can sample a variety of Guangxi street foods and local desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a nod or brief hello. Address people with respectful titles and avoid loud, aggressive behavior in crowded spaces.
Public displays of affection are generally acceptable but keep gestures moderate in public; avoid touching strangers unnecessarily.
Be patient in queues and share tables politely in popular eateries; wait your turn and line up at stalls.
Use chopsticks properly, try to taste before adding extra sauces, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl.
Safety
Tipping in Nanning
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in everyday life in China. In high-end hotels, international chains, or exceptional service, a small tip may be given, but it is not expected.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments are ubiquitous. WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most convenient; many shops, restaurants, and market stalls accept them. Some larger hotels and upscale establishments may accept credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and very humid with frequent showers and occasional typhoons. Stay hydrated, carry a lightweight umbrella, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; comfortable for city walking and outdoor sightseeing with clear skies.
Mild by many standards, with cool mornings and evenings; temperatures typically hover around 8–15°C (46–59°F). Bring a light jacket.
Warm and increasingly humid with intermittent rain; good for park strolls and hill trails, but pack a rain layer.
Nanning at Night
Hiking in Nanning
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible hikes with forest paths, viewpoints, and temple areas close to the city for day trips.
Short drives can bring you to nearby forested hills and nature reserves suitable for day hikes and photography.
Airports
How to reach Nanning by plane.
Main gateway to Nanning with connections to major Chinese cities and some international routes; taxi or airport shuttle to the city center takes about 30-40 minutes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnicity in Nanning and Guangxi, contributing to the city’s language and cultural landscape.
A major minority group in Guangxi with rich traditions and influences visible in festivals, crafts, and cuisine.
Miao, Hui, Dong, and others contribute to Guangxi’s diverse cultural tapestry.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular recreational activity; many parks host casual games and local leagues.
Common in community centers and parks; easy for visitors to join at public tables.
A frequent pastime in neighborhoods and sports clubs across the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanning.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Guangxi dishes center on vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms. Request cooked-without lard or seafood-based broths; helpfully ask for oil-light preparations and sauces on the side.