Xuzhou

Planning Your Trip to Xuzhou

Essential Information

• Location: China, Jiangsu Province
• Timezone: GMT+8 (China Standard Time)
• Languages Spoken: Mandarin Chinese
• Currency: Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Xuzhou Weather & Climate: When to Visit

• January-February: Cold and dry. Expect temperatures below freezing.
• March-May: Springtime! Mild temperatures with increasing rainfall.
• June-August: Hot and humid summers, with occasional heavy rain.
• September-October: Pleasant autumn weather. Sunny days and comfortable temperatures.
• November-December: Cooling temperatures and dry conditions.

Xuzhou City Overview: History and Modernity

Xuzhou, nestled in Jiangsu Province, is a vibrant city where ancient history meets modern life. As a major transportation hub and former capital, Xuzhou boasts a rich cultural heritage visible in its historical sites. Surrounded by mountains and lakes, it offers scenic beauty alongside urban development. Xuzhou’s strategic location has made it a vital industrial and commercial center. Explore its historical battlefields, savor the local cuisine, and experience the unique blend of old and new. The city’s dedication to growth ensures its continued importance in Jiangsu Province.

Best Time to Visit Xuzhou: Spring or Autumn?

• Spring (March-May):
  • Pros: Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, great for outdoor activities.
  • Cons: Occasional rainfall.
• Autumn (September-October):
  • Pros: Comfortable temperatures, clear skies, perfect for sightseeing.
  • Cons: Can be slightly crowded due to peak tourist season.

Getting to Xuzhou: Flights, Trains & Visa Information

• Flights: Arrive at Xuzhou Guanyin International Airport (XUZ) – domestic and international flights available. Check flight prices here.
• Trains: Xuzhou is a major railway hub with high-speed rail connections to major Chinese cities. Book train tickets here.
• Visa Details: Most visitors need a visa for China. Requirements vary by nationality. Check visa requirements.
• Airport Transfers: Taxis and airport shuttle buses are readily available.

Historical & Cultural Highlights of Xuzhou

The Legend of Liu Bang: Xuzhou’s Imperial Connection

Xuzhou is renowned as the hometown of Liu Bang, the first emperor of the Han Dynasty. The legend goes that Liu Bang, a commoner, frequented a wine shop run by a woman named Wang, often accumulating debts. One day, a dragon appeared above the shop while Liu Bang was drinking, leading patrons to believe he was destined for greatness. This tale boosted Liu Bang’s popularity and eventual rise to the throne.

Famous People from Xuzhou: Emperors and Artists

Liu Bang, the founder of the Han Dynasty, was from Xuzhou. Another prominent figure is Zhang Daqian, a celebrated 20th-century artist known for his traditional Chinese paintings.

Top 10 Attractions in Xuzhou: Sightseeing Guide

• Mount Yunlong Scenic Area (云龙山): Panoramic views of the city and Yunlong Lake.
  • Address: Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
• Yunlong Lake (云龙湖): Perfect for boating, walking, and enjoying the scenery.
  • Address: Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
• Tomb of the King of Chu (Lion Mountain) (楚王陵): Ancient tomb showcasing the grandeur of the Chu Kingdom.
  • Address: Hanqiao Village, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
• Xuzhou Museum (徐州博物馆): Extensive collection of historical artifacts.
  • Address: No. 118, Jiefang Road, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
• Huaihai Campaign Memorial Hall (淮海战役纪念馆): Commemorates a significant battle.
  • Address: No. 1 Heping Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
• Han Cultural Scenic Area (汉文化景区): Recreates the Han Dynasty with gardens, palaces, and performances.
  • Address: Quanshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
• Pan’an Lake Wetland Park (潘安湖湿地公园): Scenic wetland area for birdwatching and nature walks.
  • Address: Jiawang District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
• Xuzhou Botanical Garden (徐州植物园): Diverse plant species and landscapes.
  • Address: Dongshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
• Xuzhou Underwater World (徐州海底世界): Aquarium with marine life from around the world.
  • Address: Yunlong Lake Scenic Area, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
• Memorial Temple of Zhang Daqian (张大千纪念馆): Dedicated to the artist Zhang Daqian.
  • Address: No. 1, Guangde Street, Yunlong District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China

Discover Xuzhou’s Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

• Xima Tai (戏马台): Ancient ritual site with panoramic views and cultural insight.
  • Address: Mountain top in Tongshan District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
• Santu Dam (三土水库): Offers great views and a peaceful escape from the city.
  • Address: Jiawang District, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China

Xuzhou Festivals & Events: Experience Local Culture

• Xuzhou International Marathon: Annual marathon attracting runners from around the world.
• Yunlong Mountain Temple Fair: Traditional fair with performances, food, and cultural activities.
• Peony Festival: Celebrates peony blooming with flower exhibitions and events.

Day Trips from Xuzhou: Explore Nearby Cities

• Suqian (宿迁): (Approx. 1.5 hours by train) Known for Xiang Yu Hometown and ancient sites.
• Bengbu (蚌埠): (Approx. 2 hours by train) Rich history, including the Museum of Ancient Human Civilization.
• Zaozhuang (枣庄): (Approx. 1.5 hours by train) Famous for Red Stone Mountain scenic area, a geological park.

Xuzhou Photography: Capture the City’s Beauty

• Yunlong Lake: Perfect for lake and mountain views.
• Mount Yunlong: Offers panoramic cityscapes and temples.
• Han Cultural Scenic Area: Great for historical-themed photos.
• Pan’an Lake Wetland Park: Ideal for nature photography.

Xuzhou Accommodation: Where to Stay

Recommended Length of Stay in Xuzhou

3-4 days

Budget-Friendly Hotels in Xuzhou

• Hanting Express Xuzhou Railway Station:
  • Address: No. 66 West Huaihai Road, Yunlong District, Xuzhou
• Jinjiang Inn Xuzhou Center:
  • Address: No. 18 North Huaihai Road, Yunlong District, Xuzhou
• Home Inn Xuzhou Railway Station:
  • Address: No. 36 West Huaihai Road, Yunlong District, Xuzhou
• 7 Days Inn Xuzhou Pengcheng Square:
  • Address: No. 87 Zhongshan South Road, Yunlong District, Xuzhou

Mid-Range Hotels in Xuzhou

• Holiday Inn Express Xuzhou Downtown:
  • Address: No. 168 Jiefang South Road, Yunlong District, Xuzhou
• Greentree Inn Jiangsu Xuzhou Yunlong Lake Express Hotel:
  • Address: No. 261 Daxue Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou
• Atour Hotel (Xuzhou Wanda Plaza):
  • Address: Wanda Plaza, No. 88 Jiuli Mountain Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou
• Lavande Hotel Xuzhou Railway Station:
  • Address: No. 55 West Huaihai Road, Yunlong District, Xuzhou

Luxury Hotels in Xuzhou

• Shangri-La Hotel, Xuzhou:
  • Address: No. 69 Jianyun Road, Quanshan District, Xuzhou
• Crowne Plaza Xuzhou Dalong Lake:
  • Address: No. 1 Dalong Lake Scenic Area, Tongshan New District, Xuzhou
• Hilton Xuzhou:
  • Address: No. 168 Renmin East Road, Yunlong District, Xuzhou
• Grand New Century Hotel Xuzhou:
  • Address: No.6 Fuxing North Road, Yunlong District, Xuzhou

Find the best Xuzhou hotel deals here!

Getting Around Xuzhou: Transportation Options

• Public Transport: Extensive bus network and growing subway system.
• Taxis: Readily available throughout the city.
• Bikes: Bike-sharing programs are popular for short distances.
• Walking Tips: Explore the city center on foot, especially around Yunlong Lake.

Preparing for Your Xuzhou Trip: Essential Packing List

• Clothing: Based on the season – layers for spring/autumn, light clothes for summer, warm clothes for winter.
• Comfortable Shoes: For walking and exploring.
• Umbrella: Especially during the rainy season.
• Translation Device/App: Helpful for communicating.

Useful Apps for Traveling in Xuzhou

• Baidu Maps (百度地图): For navigation.
• Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行): For taxi booking.
• Pleco: English-Chinese dictionary.
• WeChat (微信): Essential for communication and payments.

Xuzhou Travel Tips: Safety & Cultural Etiquette

• Do: Learn basic Mandarin phrases. Respect local customs. Bargain respectfully at markets.
• Don’t: Be critical of the government. Litter. Disrespect public spaces.
• Scams to Avoid: Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering tours.

Xuzhou Food & Drink: A Culinary Adventure

Top Restaurants in Xuzhou

• Ma Yu Xing Chicken (马豫兴): Traditional Xuzhou-style chicken dishes.
  • Description: Local chain known for braised chicken.
  • Address: Multiple locations
• Huaihai Food Street (淮海路小吃街): A popular street food destination.
  • Description: Street food mecca.
  • Address: Huaihai East Road, Yunlong District
• Shao Ji Steamed Buns (邵记): Famous for steamed buns and local breakfast options.
  • Description: Serves many dumplings and local breakfast options.
  • Address: Near the university district

Must-Try Dishes in Xuzhou

• Baked Wheat Cake (烙馍): A baked wheat cake, crisp and savory, a local favorite.
• Sheep Soup (羊肉汤): Flavorful winter comfort food.

Xuzhou Nightlife & Entertainment: After Dark

• 1881 Bar Street (1881酒吧街): Bars and pubs with live music and entertainment.
  • Description: Group of bars and pubs.
  • Address: Near Yunlong Lake
• Wanda Plaza (万达广场): Cinemas and karaoke bars.
  • Description: Movie theatre, Karaoke and shopping plaza.
  • Address: Jiuli Mountain Road, Quanshan District

Xuzhou Shopping: Souvenirs & Local Products

• Xuzhou Embroidery (徐州刺绣): Intricate embroidery products.
  • Description: Traditional silk embroidery with beautiful patterns.
  • Address: Embroidery shops near old town
• Yunlong Mountain Tea (云龙山茶): Local tea grown on Yunlong Mountain.
  • Description: Tea grown locally in the Yunlong mountain region
  • Address: Tea shops around Yunlong Lake