In Episode 2 of our East Coast China Road Trip Series, we head to Xiangshan, a quiet fishing town tucked away on the shores of Ningbo. With rugged cliffs, peaceful harbours, fresh seafood, and the rhythm of local life, Xiangshan offers a rare glimpse into China's ocean culture.
A couple of hours from Shanghai, and a short drive from Ningbo's city lies the peaceful coastline of Xiangshan.
🚗 Drive along China’s lesser-known east coast
🎣 Discover a traditional fishing village
🍤 Feast on local seafood straight from the ocean
🏝️ Hunt for hidden beaches far from the crowds
🙏 Visit a small, centuries-old seaside temple
This is the real China—raw, coastal, and full of unexpected beauty.
Locations
📍 Xipu Fishing Port Ancient Village
📍 Ban Bian Shan Beach
📍 Bai Sha Tan
📍 Amitabha Temple
📍 Fan Tong Shan
Next up: The wild wetlands of Yancheng, so stay tuned!
Expat Natt discovers Xiangshan's coastal charm in China, exploring fishing villages, beaches, and local cuisine. A journey filled with authentic experiences and stunning ocean views.
Travel Guides & Tips in this video
Explore the hidden gem of Xiangshan, a coastal fishing town near Ningbo, China, with Expat Natt. This captivating journey unveils stunning beaches, ancient fishing villages, and delicious seafood. From exploring the bustling wet market to savoring fresh noodles by the ocean, Natt's adventure is full of unique experiences and breathtaking coastal views. Witness the beauty of Xiangshan's hidden coves and the serenity of Amitabha Temple, all while enjoying the charm of this traditional Chinese coastal town.
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28 min
2025
Xiangshan, Ningbo: Exploring China's Hidden Coastal Fishing Village
In Episode 2 of our East Coast China Road Trip Series, we head to Xiangshan, a quiet fishing town tucked away on the shores of Ningbo. With rugged cliffs, peaceful harbours, fresh seafood, and the rhythm of local life, Xiangshan offers a rare glimpse into China's ocean culture.
A couple of hours...
Xiangshan Ningbo: Coastal Fishing Village Road Trip
Embark on a scenic road trip along China's captivating east coast, uncovering the hidden gem of Xiangshan, a tranquil fishing village near Ningbo. Explore rugged cliffs, serene harbors, and pristine beaches, savoring fresh seafood and immersing yourself in the authentic rhythm of local life. Discover the timeless charm of a centuries-old seaside temple and escape to hidden beaches far from the bustling crowds. This coastal haven offers a genuine glimpse into the raw, unexpected beauty of China's ocean culture, a journey filled with serenity and discovery. Xiangshan's peaceful atmosphere and rich cultural heritage create an unforgettable experience, showcasing the real China.
Attractions in this video: Xipu Fishing Port Ancient Village, Ban Bian Shan Beach, Amitabha Temple, Rice Bowl Mountain
More about the current video:(Published on 2025-06-15)
This episode of Expat Natt's East Coast China road trip series takes viewers to Xiangshan, a serene fishing town nestled on Ningbo's coast. The video showcases the town's unique blend of rugged cliffs, tranquil harbors, and vibrant local life, offering a captivating glimpse into China's ocean culture.
Natt's journey begins with a scenic drive along the lesser-known east coast, highlighting the beauty of the landscape and the unexpected discoveries along the way. A stop at a service station reveals blossoming trees and a stunning view of the receding tide.
The exploration continues at Xipu Fishing Port Ancient Village, where Natt seeks out local noodles and seafood. The video captures the unique experience of selecting fresh seafood from the wet market and having it prepared at a nearby restaurant, showcasing the authenticity of the local culinary scene. The detailed description of the four delicacies noodles, complete with fish balls, shrimp, clams, and mussels, adds a sensory dimension to the narrative.
The journey progresses to Ban Bian Shan Beach, a free public beach offering a welcome contrast to the potentially crowded paid beaches in the area. Natt's experience highlights the beauty of finding tranquil spots even in popular tourist destinations. The video also showcases the stunning scenery, including a breathtaking sunset view, which is described as one of the best views in the region.
A luxurious stay at the Sheraton hotel in Xiangshan provides a moment of respite, with Natt sharing the surprising affordability of the hotel outside of peak season. The room tour adds a personal touch, highlighting the luxurious amenities and stunning mountain views.
Further exploration leads Natt to Amitabha Temple, where the video captures the unique challenges and rewarding experience of navigating the area. A visit to Budong Coffee for a pastry and coffee adds another layer to the cultural immersion. The exploration of various beaches continues, with Natt searching for sea glass, adding a playful element to the journey. A chance encounter with sheep and camping sites adds an unexpected and humorous twist to the narrative. The journey concludes with a visit to Rice Bowl Mountain, named for its unique shape.
Throughout the video, Natt's personal insights and observations add depth and authenticity to the experience. The focus on unique details, local interactions, and authentic experiences makes the video stand out, offering viewers a truly immersive experience of coastal China.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
Q: What's the best way to experience the local seafood?
A: Go to the wet market, pick your seafood, and have a local restaurant cook it for you. It's a fun and tasty experience!
Q: Are there free beaches in Xiangshan?
A: Yes! While some beaches charge, there are also beautiful, free beaches with fewer crowds. We found a great one just a short drive from our hotel.
Q: What's the best time to visit Xiangshan to get good hotel deals?
A: Avoid peak season like the National Day holiday. Prices were much lower when we went, and we found a fantastic hotel room for a fraction of the usual price!
Q: What's a unique place to visit in Xiangshan?
A: Rice Bowl Mountain! It's so uniquely shaped and the view from the top is incredible!
