Lianyungang 3-Day Guide: Huaguoshan & Liandao
Schwarz
Lianyungang 3-Day Guide: Conquer Huaguo Mountain, Relax on Liandao Beach & Feast on Seafood
Lianyungang, known in ancient times as Haizhou, sits in the northeastern corner of Jiangsu Province, facing the Yellow Sea to the east. It is one of China's first coastal open cities and the eastern bridgehead of the New Eurasian Land Bridge. This is a city where mountains embrace the sea — home to Huaguo Mountain, the legendary birthplace of the Monkey King from Journey to the West, and Liandao Island, the largest island in Jiangsu Province. Add to that an incredible seafood scene featuring swimming crabs, mantis shrimp, and more, and you have a destination that perfectly balances nature, mythology, and gastronomy. Three days is just the right amount of time to experience everything this "City of Mountain and Sea" has to offer.
📅 Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March–May): Mild and pleasant. Azaleas bloom on Huaguo Mountain and cherry blossoms adorn Liandao Island — perfect for hiking and flower viewing.
- Summer (June–August): Peak beach season. Liandao's beaches are buzzing with swimmers and sunbathers. Do watch out for occasional typhoons and bring strong sunscreen.
- Autumn (September–November): The absolute best season! Clear skies, crisp air, fewer tourists, and the seafood is at its fattest and most delicious. Best value for money.
- Winter (December–February): Quiet and serene. Visitor numbers drop dramatically. A great time to soak in the Donghai Forest Hot Springs and experience the moody, windswept winter coastline.
🚄 Transportation Guide
Getting to Lianyungang
- By Air: Lianyungang Huaguoshan International Airport (in Guanyun County) connects to Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chengdu, Chongqing, and other major cities. Airport shuttle bus to downtown costs approximately ¥20–30; taxi around ¥80–150.
- By High-Speed Rail:
- Lianyungang Station (Haizhou District): The main city station with the most train connections. About 30 minutes' drive to Huaguo Mountain.
- Lianyungang East Station (Lianyun District): Closer to the port and Liandao Island, ideal for seaside sightseeing.
- Travel time between the two stations is approximately 30 minutes; city bus B1K connects them directly.
- By Car: The G30 Lianyungang–Khorgas Expressway provides direct access. Roads in the city are wide and parking is generally available.
Getting Around Town
- City Buses: ¥2–3 per ride, covering all major attractions. Tourist buses You3 and You6 go directly to Liandao Island.
- Taxis & Ride-Hailing (Didi): Starting fare ¥9 (covers first 3 km). Most intracity trips cost ¥15–30.
- Bike-Sharing: HelloBike, Meituan bikes, and other brands are widely available for short-distance rides.
🏨 Where to Stay
| Area | Vibe | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Yanhe Lane / Haizhou District | City center, food paradise, best transport links | ¥150–300/night |
| Near Liandao Island | Sea-view B&Bs, wake up to sunrises | ¥200–400/night (sea-view rooms +50%) |
| Near Huaguo Mountain | Mountain-view guesthouses, ideal for early hikers | ¥150–350/night |
Recommendation: Stay near Yanhe Lane (盐河巷). You'll be steps away from the city's best night market and seafood street — a huge convenience after a long day of exploring.
🗺️ The 3-Day Itinerary
🚶 Day 1: Journey to the West — Huaguo Mountain & Water Curtain Cave
Morning (4–5 hours): Huaguo Mountain Scenic Area
Huaguo Mountain is Lianyungang's only national 5A-level scenic spot and the legendary home of Sun Wukong (the Monkey King) from the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West. At 624.4 meters, Jade Maiden Peak (玉女峰) is the highest point in Jiangsu Province.
Recommended Route: Main gate → Scenic bus to Jade Maiden Peak (¥25) → Summit views over Lianyungang → Walk downhill via Water Curtain Cave → Sanyuan Temple → 72 Caves → Strange Stone Garden → Nine-Dragon Bridge.
- Admission: Peak season (Mar–Nov) ¥90, off-season ¥50
- Cable Car: One-way ¥50, round-trip ¥80. Highly recommend cable car up + walk down — saves energy without missing anything.
- Opening Hours: 07:00–17:00
- ⚠️ Monkey Alert!: The mountain is home to hundreds of wild macaques. They are bold and food-obsessed. Do NOT carry plastic bags visibly, do NOT eat in front of them, and keep your backpack zipped tight. They've been known to snatch phones, so hold your device firmly when taking photos!
The Water Curtain Cave (水帘洞) is the undisputed highlight — a waterfall cascades over the cave entrance just like in the legends, and inside it's cool and dimly lit with a mysterious atmosphere. Unmissable photo spot. Sanyuan Temple (三元宫), the largest temple complex on the mountain, dates back to the Tang Dynasty and remains an active place of worship.
Afternoon (2 hours): Yuwan Scenic Area
About 20 minutes' drive from Huaguo Mountain, Yuwan (渔湾) is known as "Jiangsu's Jiuzhaigou" for its waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and deep pools. It's a fantastic summer escape and a paradise for families with kids who love splashing in water.
- Admission: ¥40
- Highlights: Old Dragon Pool Waterfall, Hidden Dragon Cave, Three Pools Chasing Waves
- Tip: Wear non-slip sandals and bring a change of clothes — you WILL get wet!
Evening: Yanhe Lane Night Market
Yanhe Lane (盐河巷) is Lianyungang's most vibrant food street, housed in a beautifully restored Ming-Qing style architectural complex. The energy here at night is electric.
Don't miss:
- 🦪 Garlic grilled oysters (4 for ¥10)
- 🐙 Stir-fried octopus (~¥30)
- 🦀 Spicy crab (market price, best in autumn)
- 🍢 Grilled scallops & squid skewers
- 🥞 Small fish crepe / pancake (~¥10–15)
🚶 Day 2: Island Escape — Liandao & Yangshan Island
Morning (3–4 hours): Liandao Island Scenic Area
Liandao is Jiangsu Province's largest rocky island, covering 7.57 square kilometers. It's connected to the mainland by China's longest seawall (6.7 km, nicknamed the "Number One Sea-Blocking Causeway"), so you can drive or take a bus directly onto the island.
- Combined Ticket: ¥50 (covers Dashawan Beach + Sumawan Beach + shuttle bus)
- Shuttle Bus: ¥20/person; electric scooter rental ¥60/day
- Opening Hours: 08:00–17:00
Start your morning at Dashawan Beach (大沙湾), Jiangsu's finest natural sandy beach with fine golden sand and clear waters. In summer you can swim, build sandcastles, or simply sunbathe. Then walk the spectacular coastal boardwalk to Sumawan Beach (苏马湾) — a 30–40 minute stroll past dramatic sea cliffs, crashing waves, and fragrant pine forests. Sumawan is quieter and more secluded than Dashawan, perfect for sitting on the sand and doing absolutely nothing.
Afternoon (2 hours): Yangshan Island
Yangshan Island (羊山岛) is a free, rugged rocky coastline about 15 minutes' drive from Liandao. Its unique appeal lies in the industrial-chic container port scenery — massive colorful shipping containers against a backdrop of cranes and ocean vessels. Come in the late afternoon for sunset: rocks, lighthouse, and golden light create an almost painterly composition. No ticket needed, open 24/7.
Evening: Xugou Seafood Market
Xugou (墟沟) is where Lianyungang locals go for the freshest and most affordable seafood. The drill is simple: browse the market, pick out live seafood (swimming crabs, mantis shrimp, prawns, scallops, razor clams — whatever looks good), then take it to a nearby cooking shop around the corner. They'll prepare it however you like for just ¥10–15 per dish. A glorious seafood feast typically costs ¥80–150 per person — less than half what you'd pay at tourist-trap restaurants.
📍 Location: Xugou Subdistrict, Lianyun District 🍽️ Recommended prep: Swimming crab — steamed plain; Mantis shrimp — salt-and-pepper fried; Razor clams — stir-fried with ginger and scallions
🚶 Day 3: Panoramic Views & Cultural Treasures
Morning (3 hours): Maritime Yuntai Mountain
Maritime Yuntai Mountain (海上云台山) is a 4A scenic area nicknamed "Huaguo Mountain on the Sea" for its incredible panoramic views. From the Erweijian (二桅尖) viewing platform at the summit, you can take in Lianyungang Port, Liandao Island, and the vast Yellow Sea all at once. When sea mist rolls in, the whole scene turns ethereal.
- Admission: Peak ¥80, off-peak ¥60
- Scenic Bus: ¥20 one-way (recommended to save leg power)
- Highlights: Erweijian Viewing Platform, Faqi Temple, Cloud-Mist Tea Plantation
- If you're feeling energetic, the hike up takes about 2 hours through ancient forests and babbling streams.
Afternoon (2.5 hours): Kongwang Mountain + Haizhou Old Town
Kongwang Mountain (孔望山, 1.5 hours): This small mountain holds an astonishing secret — cliff-side Buddhist carvings and Taoist stone inscriptions from the Han Dynasty that predate the Mogao Caves of Dunhuang by roughly 200 years. A quiet, contemplative site that's easy to explore.
- Admission: ¥25
- Highlights: Cliff carvings, Han Dynasty stone elephant, "Confucius Gazing at the Sea" viewpoint
Haizhou Old Town (海州古城, 1 hour): Haizhou is Lianyungang's historic heart, with well-preserved Ming and Qing dynasty streets and architecture. Stroll the flagstone lanes past the City God Temple, Bell and Drum Tower, and the Twin Dragon Well. The atmosphere is wonderfully nostalgic and photogenic.
- Free admission, open all day
- Perfect for photographers — ancient architecture and narrow alleyways create stunning compositions
Evening: One Last Yanhe Lane Run
Before you leave, swing by Yanhe Lane once more to grab some souvenirs:
- 🍶 Tanggou Liquor (汤沟酒): Lianyungang's signature baijiu — "cellar-fragrant, sweet, and clean"
- 🦀 Vacuum-packed swimming crabs
- 🥮 Huaguo Mountain wind-dried goose, Banpu jelly noodles (板浦凉粉)
🍜 Must-Eat Food
Seafood
| Dish | Best Preparation | Price Guide | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swimming Crab (梭子蟹) | Steamed, ginger-scallion stir-fry | ¥80–150/jin (market price) | Sep–Nov |
| Mantis Shrimp (皮皮虾) | Salt-and-pepper, boiled | ¥40–80/jin | Apr–Jun |
| Prawns (对虾) | Boiled, garlic-grilled | ¥60–120/jin | Year-round |
| Oysters (生蚝) | Garlic-grilled, raw | ¥10/4 pieces | Winter (plumpest) |
| Scallops (扇贝) | Vermicelli + garlic, steamed | ¥15–25/plate | Year-round |
| Razor Clams (蛏子) | Ginger-scallion, spicy stir-fry | ¥25–40/jin | Spring–Summer |
Local Specialties
- Small Fish Pancake (小鱼煎饼, ¥10–15): Lianyungang's most iconic street food. Crispy little sea fish wrapped in a thin pancake with bean sprouts, shredded kelp, and a secret savory sauce. Salty, aromatic, and utterly addictive.
- Banpu Jelly Noodles (板浦凉粉, ¥5–10): Smooth, slippery mung-bean jelly drenched in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic paste, and chili oil. Tangy, spicy, and incredibly refreshing on a hot day.
- Guanyun Bean Worm (灌云豆丹, ¥30–60): A bold local delicacy made from hawk moth larvae. High protein, low fat, with a creamy texture. Stir-fried or in soup — definitely an adventure for the brave eater.
- Lianyungang Crepe (连云港煎饼, ¥5–10): A crispy multi-grain crepe that can be stuffed with fried dough sticks, eggs, or sausage. One is enough for a filling breakfast.
- Tanggou Liquor (汤沟酒, ¥30–200): A nationally recognized geographical indication product, brewed using traditional methods. Makes an excellent gift.
💰 Budget Estimates (Per Person)
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (2 nights) | ¥300–400 | ¥500–700 | ¥1,000–1,500 |
| Attraction Tickets | ¥200–250 | ¥250–350 | ¥350–500 |
| Food & Drink | ¥200–300 | ¥400–600 | ¥700–1,000 |
| Local Transport | ¥100–150 | ¥150–250 | ¥300–500 |
| Total | ¥800–1,100 | ¥1,300–1,900 | ¥2,350–3,500 |
💡 Practical Tips
- Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable: The seaside sun is deceptively strong. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses even in spring and autumn.
- Book Tickets in Advance: During peak season (especially Labor Day May 1–5 and National Day Oct 1–7), buy Huaguo Mountain and Liandao tickets online via Meituan or Ctrip to skip long queues.
- The Monkey Code of Conduct: Huaguo Mountain's macaques are wild and fearless. Never carry visible plastic bags. Never eat in front of a monkey. Keep your backpack fully zipped. If a monkey approaches, stay calm and walk away slowly — don't run and don't make eye contact.
- Seafood Smarts: Skip the restaurants right at scenic area entrances — they're tourist traps. Head to Xugou Seafood Market, buy fresh, and have it cooked at a processing shop. Always confirm prices before ordering, especially for "market price" items.
- What to Wear: Hiking shoes for the mountains, flip-flops or sandals for the beach. The Liandao coastal boardwalk is best enjoyed in comfortable walking shoes.
- Beat the Crowds: Huaguo Mountain and Liandao get packed on weekends and holidays. If you can visit on a weekday, do it. Summer weekends may see Liandao hit visitor capacity limits.
- Tidepooling Fun: Both Liandao and Yangshan Island offer good tidepooling (collecting shells, digging for clams at low tide). Check a tide table beforehand and bring a small bucket and spade.
- Language: The local dialect is Jianghuai Mandarin, but standard Mandarin is universally spoken and understood. No language barrier for Chinese speakers. For international visitors, basic English signage exists at major attractions but is limited elsewhere — a translation app helps.
- Payment: WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted everywhere. Carry a small amount of cash as backup.
- Best Photo Spots: In front of Water Curtain Cave at Huaguo Mountain, the Sumawan coastal boardwalk on Liandao, the Erweijian viewing platform on Yuntai Mountain, and sunset among the rocks at Yangshan Island. These four spots deliver Instagram gold every time!
Lianyungang is a city blessed by both mountain and sea, and three days is just enough to fall in love with it. Climb misty peaks, sink your toes into golden sand, crack open fresh crabs at a bustling market — this unassuming coastal gem will surprise you in the best possible way.