Discover Changzhou: A Blend of Modernity and Tradition
Planning Your Trip to Changzhou
China
GMT +8
Mandarin Chinese
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Changzhou experiences a humid subtropical climate. Knowing what to expect weather-wise will help you pack!
Spring (March-May): Pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, but be prepared for occasional rain.
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F).
Autumn (September-November): Mild and sunny – many consider this the best time to visit Changzhou!
Winter (December-February): Cold and damp, with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing.
Changzhou, a vibrant city in Jiangsu province, seamlessly blends its rich history with modern development. Located on the Yangtze River Delta, it’s known for its ancient canals, beautiful parks, and thriving economy. The city boasts a history spanning over 2,500 years and has played a significant role in China’s cultural and economic landscape. Today, Changzhou is a major industrial center, but it retains its charm with well-preserved historical sites and traditional gardens. It offers a unique experience for visitors seeking a blend of urban excitement and cultural immersion. If you’re looking for a **China travel guide** that offers something different, Changzhou is a great choice!
Best Time to Visit Changzhou
Autumn (September-November): Offers the most pleasant weather with mild temperatures and clear skies, ideal for exploring outdoor attractions. The crowds are also generally smaller compared to peak seasons. Consider booking your **Changzhou hotels** in advance if you’re travelling during peak season.
Spring (March-May): Offers blooming flowers and pleasant weather, but be prepared for occasional rain.
Summer (June-August): Can be very hot and humid, making outdoor activities less enjoyable. Stay hydrated!
Winter (December-February): Cold and damp, which can be uncomfortable for some. Pack warm layers!
How to Get There & Visa Requirements
Flights: Changzhou Benniu International Airport (CZX) offers domestic flights to major cities in China and a limited number of international flights. You can find **cheap flights to Changzhou** by using online travel agencies.
Trains: Changzhou Railway Station and Changzhou North Railway Station connect the city to major destinations via high-speed rail. China’s high-speed rail network is amazing!
Visa Details: Most nationalities require a visa to enter China. Check the specific requirements based on your nationality with the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country. **China visa application** information can be found online.
Airport Transfers: Taxis and airport buses are readily available for transfers between the airport and the city center. Ride-hailing services like Didi are also popular. You can also pre-book an **airport transfer Changzhou**.
Fun/Historical Fact or Story
Changzhou is known as the “Dragon City” because of its association with a local legend. It is said that during the Zhou Dynasty, a white dragon appeared in the city, bringing prosperity and good fortune. This legend has been passed down through generations and continues to be a source of local pride.
Famous Personalities from Changzhou
Zhao Mengfu: A famous scholar, painter, and calligrapher of the Yuan Dynasty.
Top 10 Attractions in Changzhou
Yancheng Wildlife Park
A large wildlife park with a variety of animals from around the world. A great place for families!
Address: 218 Yanjiang Middle Rd, Wujin District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
China Dinosaur Park
A theme park dedicated to dinosaurs with exhibits, rides, and shows. Roar!
Address: 1 Huanqiu Rd, Xinbei District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
Hongmei Park
A traditional Chinese garden with beautiful scenery, pavilions, and lakes. Perfect for a relaxing stroll.
Address: Hongmei Rd, Zhonglou District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
Tianning Temple
A historic Buddhist temple with a towering pagoda and intricate architecture. A must-see for history buffs.
Address: 68 Yanling Middle Rd, Zhonglou District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
Changzhou Museum
Showcasing the history and culture of Changzhou with a diverse collection of artifacts. Learn about the city’s past!
Address: 19 Huayuan Rd, Xinbei District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
Qiandao Lake
A scenic lake with numerous islands, offering boat tours and recreational activities.
Address: In Wujin District (Southern suburb area)
The Grand Canal
Part of the ancient canal system, offering scenic views and historical significance. Take a boat trip!
Address: Various Locations across the city
Jintan Maoshan Scenic Area
A mountainous area with Taoist temples and natural beauty. Ideal for hiking and escaping the city.
Address: Jintan District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
Flower Garden (Huayuan)
The gardens here have exhibits of various different flowers from around the globe.
Address: 19 Huayuan Rd, Xinbei District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
Red Plum Pavilion of Changzhou
A pavilion of architectural and artistic value.
Address: Hongmei Park, Zhonglou District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
Hidden Gems in Changzhou
Qingguo Alley
A historic alleyway with traditional architecture and local shops. A great place to wander and discover!
Address: Qingguo Alley, Tianning District, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China
Dongpo Park
A peaceful park dedicated to the poet Su Dongpo, with pavilions and gardens.
Address: Inside Qingfeng Village, Jintan District
Bifengjian Scenic Area
A natural area ideal for hiking.
Address: MaoShan, Jintan District, Changzhou
Local Festivals & Events in Changzhou
Changzhou International Animation & Digital Arts Festival: An annual festival showcasing animation and digital art.
Tianning Temple Fair: A traditional temple fair held at Tianning Temple, featuring religious ceremonies, performances, and local crafts.
Qingming Festival: Celebrated in early April, families visit ancestral graves to pay respects and clean the burial sites.
Day Trips & Nearby Attractions from Changzhou
Nanjing: The former capital of China, with historical sites such as the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace (approx. 1 hour by high-speed train). Book your **Nanjing tour** online.
Suzhou: Known for its classical gardens, such as the Humble Administrator’s Garden and the Lingering Garden (approx. 30 minutes by high-speed train). Consider a **Suzhou garden tour**.
Wuxi: Located on the shores of Taihu Lake, with attractions like the Lingshan Grand Buddha and the Turtle Head Isle (approx. 45 minutes by high-speed train).
Photography Spots & Insta-Worthy Places in Changzhou
China Dinosaur Park: The dinosaur sculptures and themed attractions provide unique photo opportunities. #dinosaurs #themepark
Hongmei Park: The traditional Chinese gardens and pavilions offer scenic backdrops. #chinesegarden #photography
Tianning Temple: The pagoda and intricate architecture are visually stunning. #temple #architecture
Qingguo Alley: The historic alleyway with traditional buildings is a picturesque location. #historic #alleyway
Qiandao Lake: The scenery of a lake with many different islands and natural beauty is great for photography. #qiandaolake #photography
Where to Stay & How to Get Around Changzhou
Recommended Number of Days to Stay in Changzhou
3-5 days is a good amount of time to explore Changzhou.
Top Places to Stay in Changzhou (Sorted by Budget)
Budget:
Hanting Hotel Changzhou Railway Station:
Address: No. 26-1, Tongjiang Road, Zhonglou District, Changzhou
Jinjiang Inn Changzhou Railway Station:
Address: No. 126, Qingyang Road, Zhonglou District, Changzhou
GreenTree Inn Jiangsu Changzhou Xinbei Wanda Plaza Express Hotel:
Address: No.32, Tongjiang Middle Road, Xinbei District, Changzhou
Motel 168 Changzhou Railway Station South Square:
Address: 128 Qingyang Road, Zhonglou District, Changzhou
Home Inn Changzhou Railway Station Branch:
Address: No.8-1 Tongjiang Middle Road, Zhonglou District, Changzhou
Mid-range:
Holiday Inn Express Changzhou Xinbei:
Address: No.15-1 Xinglong Road, Xinbei District, Changzhou
Ramada Plaza Changzhou:
Address: 8 Middle Changjiang Road, Xinbei District, Changzhou
Grand Canal Hotel Changzhou:
Address: 28 Qingyang Road, Zhonglou District, Changzhou
Jinling Mansion Changzhou:
Address: 68 Laodong Middle Road, Zhonglou District, Changzhou
Traders Fudu Hotel Changzhou:
Address: No.388 Middle Qingyang Road, Zhonglou District, Changzhou
Luxury:
Shangri-La Hotel Changzhou:
Address: 88 Tongjiang Middle Road, Xinbei District, Changzhou
Hilton Changzhou:
Address: No. 99 Qingyang North Road, Zhonglou District, Changzhou
Sheraton Changzhou Xinbei Hotel:
Address: 99-1 West Huangshan Road, Xinbei District, Changzhou
Grand New Century Hotel Changzhou:
Address: 66 Qingfeng Road, Xinbei District, Changzhou
Wanda Realm Hotel Changzhou:
Address: No. 9-1 West Dingxiang Road, Xinbei District, Changzhou
Getting Around the City
Public Transport: Changzhou has an extensive bus network and a metro system, making it easy to get around the city.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable.
Bikes: Bike rentals are available, offering a convenient way to explore the city at your own pace.
Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the city center and historical areas.
Preparing for Your Changzhou Experience
What to Pack for Changzhou
Comfortable walking shoes
Weather-appropriate clothing (layers for unpredictable weather)
Universal adapter for electronics
Basic toiletries and medications
A phrasebook or translation app for communication
Useful Apps for Visiting Changzhou
Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps: Navigation apps for finding directions and points of interest.
Didi Chuxing: Ride-hailing app for booking taxis.
Pleco: Chinese-English dictionary and translation app.
WeChat/Alipay: For mobile payments, communication, and accessing various services.
Local, Safety Tips & Cultural Etiquette for Changzhou
Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying expensive belongings.
Learn basic Mandarin phrases for communication.
Bargain respectfully when shopping in markets.
Avoid discussing sensitive political topics.
Respect local customs and traditions.
Food, Fun & Finds in Changzhou
Top Restaurants in Changzhou
Din Tai Fung (Shangri-La Hotel): Famous for its soup dumplings and Taiwanese cuisine.
Address: Shangri-La Hotel, 88 Tongjiang Middle Road, Xinbei District, Changzhou
Wang Pin Taiwan Steakhouse (Wanda Plaza): Offers high-quality steaks and Taiwanese dishes.
Address: Wanda Plaza, Xinbei District, Changzhou
Grandma’s Kitchen (Various Locations): A popular chain restaurant serving authentic Zhejiang cuisine.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Changzhou
Pizza Hut (Various Locations): Serves Italian cuisine.
Address: Located near Xinbei District, Changzhou.
Laobian Dumpling (Various Locations): Serves various dumplings and soup based meals.
Address: Located near Xinbei District, Changzhou.
Must-Try Dishes in Changzhou
Crab Shell Cake (蟹壳黄): A savory pastry filled with pork and crab meat.
Wonton Noodles (馄饨面): A comforting noodle soup with wontons.
Braised Pork Knuckle (红烧猪蹄): A rich and flavorful dish.
Jinling Salted Duck (金陵盐水鸭): A famous Nanjing dish, also popular in Changzhou.
Soup Dumplings (小笼包): Thin-skinned dumplings filled with flavorful broth and meat.
Nightlife & Entertainment in Changzhou
Soho Bar: A popular bar with live music and a lively atmosphere.
Address: 18 Qingyang North Road, Zhonglou District, Changzhou
Helen’s Bar (Various Locations): A chain bar offering a wide selection of drinks and snacks.
Address: Multiple locations throughout Changzhou
Wanda Plaza: Offers a variety of entertainment options, including cinemas, karaoke, and shopping.
Address: Xinbei District, Changzhou
V Bar (Inside Wanda Realm Hotel): An ideal area to relax, play pool and dance.
Address: No. 9-1 West Dingxiang Road, Xinbei District, Changzhou
Global Harbor: An ideal area to shop, eat and visit local attractions.
Address: No.188 Longjin Road, Xinbei District, Changzhou
What to Buy (Souvenirs & Markets) in Changzhou
Changzhou Combs: Traditional hand-crafted combs made from wood or horn.
Address: Available at local markets and craft shops.
Yixing Teapots: High-quality teapots from the nearby Yixing region.
Address: Available at tea shops and markets.
Silk Products: Scarves, clothing, and other silk items.
Address: Available at silk shops and department stores.
Local Snacks: Such as crab shell cakes and dried plums.
Address: Available at local markets and street food vendors.
Dinosaur Park Merchandise: Souvenirs and memorabilia from the China Dinosaur Park.
Address: Inside China Dinosaur Park.
