2 Days in Xuzhou, Jiangsu: China's Best Kept Secret For our first China Travel Vlog of 2025 we are in Xuzhou, Jiangsu. On a spontaneous trip, just a couple hours train ride from Shanghai, I had no idea what to expect from this bustling city in the heart of Jiangsu province. Having already travelled to Suzhou, Yangzhou, Danyang, Nanjing, and other cities in Jiangsu, China I was absolutely blown away by the food culture of Xuzhou and now have an all-time favourite food- can you guess what it is? Xuzhou (Chinese: 徐州), also known as Pengcheng (彭城) in ancient times, is a major city in northwestern Jiangsu province, China. Xuzhou is one of the oldest cities in China with a civilization dating back more than 5,000 years and a city history of over 2,600 years . It is located in the northwest of Jiangsu Province and serves as a crucial transportation hub since ancient times, often referred to as the “Gateway to Five Provinces” . The city covers an area of 11,765 square kilometers and has a population of about 9 million . Xuzhou is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is known as the birthplace of Han culture, being the hometown of Liu Bang, the first emperor of the Han Dynasty, and the former capital of Xiang Yu, the Overlord of Western Chu . The city is home to numerous cultural relics and historical sites, including the “Three Wonders of the Han Dynasty”: Han Tombs, Han Stone Relief Carvings, and Han Clay Figurines of Terracotta Warriors and Horses . These sites attract visitors from around the world and are representative of Chinese Han culture . Xuzhou has been ranked among the happiest cities in China . In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Xuzhou is also known for its natural beauty, with attractions like Yunlong Lake, Yunlong Mountain, Pengzu Garden, Hubu Mountain, and Pan’an Lake . The city boasts a thriving ceramic industry and a diverse cuisine, including Huaiyang cuisine, famous for its delicate flavors and...
Expat Natt discovers Xuzhou, Jiangsu's hidden food gems. A delicious adventure through bustling markets and ancient temples leaves a lasting impression.
Join Expat Natt on a culinary adventure to Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China! This underrated city boasts a vibrant food scene, from the famous ground pot chicken to mouthwatering skewers and unique street food. Explore bustling markets, ancient temples, and charming old streets with Expat Natt, experiencing the best of Xuzhou's culture and history. A must-watch for foodies and China travel enthusiasts!
2 Days in Xuzhou, Jiangsu: China's Best Kept Secret For our first China Travel Vlog of 2025 we are in Xuzhou, Jiangsu. On a spontaneous trip, just a couple hours train ride from Shanghai, I had no idea what to expect from this bustling city in the heart of Jiangsu province. Having already travelled...
Xuzhou Jiangsu: Exploring China's Underrated Food Culture
Expat Natt's 2025 China travelogue begins in Xuzhou, Jiangsu, a city surprisingly close to Shanghai. Initially unaware of what to expect, Natt was captivated by Xuzhou's vibrant food scene, discovering a new favorite dish. Xuzhou, also known as Pengcheng, boasts a history spanning over 5,000 years, serving as a crucial transportation hub and the birthplace of Han culture. Its rich heritage is evident in sites like the Han Tombs and its famed terracotta warriors. Beyond history, Xuzhou offers natural beauty with attractions such as Yunlong Lake and Yunlong Mountain. This underrated city is a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, leaving a lasting impression on Natt.
Attractions in this video: Balian Temple, Ancient Streets, Food Streets, Morning Market
This travel vlog follows Expat Natt's spontaneous trip to Xuzhou, Jiangsu, a city in northwestern China. The video begins with a high-speed train journey from Shanghai, setting the stage for an exploration of Xuzhou's unique culinary scene.
Expat Natt's culinary journey starts with a highly-recommended ground pot chicken dish, a traditional Xuzhou delicacy. The dish, cooked in a clay pot, is described as tender, savory, and slightly spicy, leaving a positive impression on the traveler. The cost-effectiveness and abundance of food are also highlighted.
The vlog then shifts to accommodations, showcasing a Citadines hotel, praised for its affordability and apartment-style amenities. A brief tour of the hotel room is provided, emphasizing its suitability for longer trips.
Next, Expat Natt's adventure takes an unexpected turn with an attempt to ride a scooter, showcasing a humorous moment of struggle and a testament to the traveler's willingness to embrace new experiences.
The exploration continues into the evening, with visits to food streets offering local favorites like red date cake and various skewers. The food street scenes are lively and showcase the city's nightlife. A visit to a cocktail bar adds another layer to the evening's experiences.
The following morning, a visit to a bustling food market provides a glimpse into the daily lives of Xuzhou's residents. The market's vibrant atmosphere and diverse food offerings are captured, although Expat Natt doesn't sample anything due to prior lunch plans.
The day's exploration concludes with visits to ancient streets and the impressive Balian Temple, one of the largest temples Expat Natt has encountered in China. The temple's grandeur and the presence of a gigantic gold statue are highlighted, adding a spiritual and cultural element to the journey.
Throughout the vlog, Expat Natt shares personal insights and observations, emphasizing the unique aspects of Xuzhou's culture and food, making it a compelling travelogue for viewers interested in exploring lesser-known destinations in China.
