Key Takeaways:
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Xinghua blends ancient water town charm with breathtaking natural landscapes, including iconic fields of blooming rapeseed flowers.
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The city offers a rich tapestry of cultural traditions, outdoor adventures, and unique floating markets you can explore all year long.
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From historical sites to local festivals, Xinghua is a lesser-known Chinese gem perfect for relaxed, immersive travel.
Located in Jiangsu Province, Xinghua is a hidden treasure that captivates visitors with its rich cultural heritage and picturesque waterways. Known for its ancient villages, vibrant flower fields, and traditional agricultural culture, Xinghua offers a tranquil alternative to China’s major tourist cities. The area has a deep connection to the water—from its famous floating fields to canals lined with willow trees and rustic homes. Xinghua is also the birthplace of several cultural icons and scholars, and its deep roots can be felt in every temple, market, and bridge. Whether you’re visiting during spring’s rapeseed blossom or exploring its peaceful riverside towns, Xinghua promises year-round beauty and charm.
Table of contents
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Wander Through the Duotian Floating Fields
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Explore the Ancient Village of Lizhong
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Stroll Along the Canals of Xijiao Water Town
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Visit the Xinghua City Museum and Cultural Hall
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Attend the Xinghua Rapeseed Flower Festival
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Sample Local Delicacies at Dongxing Old Street
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Hike the Nature Trails in Taizhou Bay Wetland Park
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Explore the Former Residence of Zhang Jian
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Join a Riverboat Tour at Sunset
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Visit Traditional Tea Houses for Cultural Performances
1. Wander Through the Duotian Floating Fields
The Duotian Floating Fields are arguably the most iconic attraction in Xinghua, especially stunning when covered in golden rapeseed flowers. These unique plots are built on mud rafts floating atop shallow waters, forming a grid of colorful, blooming islands separated by narrow waterways. Visitors can rent a wooden boat and glide between the fields, soaking in panoramic views of flowers, ducks, and distant farmers tending to their crops. This rare blend of agricultural innovation and scenic beauty is both photogenic and peaceful.
Though best known during spring bloom, the floating fields are visually interesting year-round. During the summer, they turn deep green with rows of vegetables; in autumn, they’re dotted with harvest activity. Local guides often explain the centuries-old farming techniques used here, making the boat ride both informative and relaxing. It’s a slow-paced, nature-connected experience that defines Xinghua’s charm.
2. Explore the Ancient Village of Lizhong
Lizhong is a well-preserved ancient village that offers a glimpse into traditional life in Jiangsu Province. With stone-paved alleys, arched bridges, and whitewashed houses, it’s like stepping back into a Ming Dynasty painting. Residents still engage in traditional crafts and cooking, and it’s not uncommon to see locals making noodles or drying vegetables in the sun. The village is quiet, photogenic, and perfect for those who enjoy slow, immersive travel.
The central courtyard houses often double as museums or cultural stops, offering insight into family traditions and architectural symbolism. Some visitors come specifically for the annual folk opera held in the village square, where locals gather to enjoy classic performances. It’s a great spot to sip tea, sketch the scenery, or practice travel photography. With minimal commercial development, Lizhong remains a living museum of Xinghua’s past.
3. Stroll Along the Canals of Xijiao Water Town
Xijiao Water Town is one of Xinghua’s lesser-known but most peaceful areas, defined by quiet canals lined with willows and traditional riverside homes. The town still functions much like it did centuries ago, with narrow pedestrian bridges, small boats tied along the banks, and open-air vegetable markets. It’s a wonderful place for a leisurely walk, especially in the early morning when mist floats above the water.
Street vendors sell warm soy milk, steamed buns, and handmade trinkets, offering an authentic glimpse into daily life. Along the walk, you’ll see elders chatting on benches, children playing with sticks by the water, and the occasional fisherman tossing in his net. Artists and poets have long found inspiration here, and it’s easy to see why. The timeless feel of Xijiao makes it an unmissable stop in Xinghua.
4. Visit the Xinghua City Museum and Cultural Hall
For a deeper understanding of Xinghua’s historical and cultural background, the Xinghua City Museum is a must-visit. The museum contains exhibitions on everything from ancient farming tools and calligraphy scrolls to the evolution of local crafts and education. Interactive displays make it easy for both kids and adults to engage with the exhibits, and multilingual signage adds accessibility for international visitors.
The attached cultural hall often hosts traditional music performances, folk art displays, and community festivals. It’s the perfect place to learn about Xinghua’s famous residents and how the area contributed to Chinese intellectual and artistic history. A guided tour enhances the experience, revealing stories you might otherwise miss. It’s a great indoor activity, especially on rainy days or to round out a history-focused itinerary.
5. Attend the Xinghua Rapeseed Flower Festival
Each spring, Xinghua comes alive with color during the annual Rapeseed Flower Festival, drawing visitors from across China. Held in March and April, the festival centers around the Duotian Floating Fields and includes boat parades, folk music performances, and agricultural exhibitions. Visitors can take part in flower-themed craft workshops, sample rapeseed-infused treats, and watch traditional dragon boat races through the canal grids.
The festival offers a perfect mix of natural beauty and cultural festivity. It’s a great time for photographers and families alike, with flower-viewing platforms and kid-friendly events. Hotels and homestays fill up quickly, so it’s wise to book in advance. Even if you miss the exact festival days, the bloom period extends several weeks, offering ample opportunity for scenic exploration.
6. Sample Local Delicacies at Dongxing Old Street
Dongxing Old Street is a culinary hotspot where Xinghua’s traditional flavors come to life. This historic food street is lined with small eateries, family-run bakeries, and street vendors offering steaming bowls of rice noodles, crispy scallion pancakes, and local specialties like Xinghua dumplings and salted duck. The smells of sesame oil, chili paste, and fresh herbs fill the air, making every corner a temptation for your taste buds.
The atmosphere is casual and vibrant, with red lanterns hanging overhead and locals chatting at sidewalk tables. Many dishes here are made using recipes passed down through generations, preserving the flavors of Jiangsu province with pride. It’s also a great place to try lesser-known snacks like sweet rice cakes or mung bean jelly. Come hungry and be prepared to explore with all five senses.
7. Hike the Nature Trails in Taizhou Bay Wetland Park
For nature lovers, a visit to the nearby Taizhou Bay Wetland Park offers a refreshing outdoor experience. Located a short drive from Xinghua, this expansive park is home to migratory birds, lotus ponds, and wooden boardwalks that wind through reed fields and wetlands. Visitors can hike or bike along scenic routes, take bird-watching tours, or enjoy a peaceful picnic with panoramic views of the bay.
The park is particularly beautiful at sunrise or sunset when the skies reflect off the water and flocks of birds take flight. Educational signs throughout the park share information about local wildlife, making it both relaxing and enriching. Families, couples, and solo travelers will all find something to enjoy here. It’s a great escape from the urban pace, offering pure air and natural serenity.
8. Explore the Former Residence of Zhang Jian
Zhang Jian, a famous entrepreneur, scholar, and philanthropist from the late Qing Dynasty, spent part of his early life in Xinghua. His preserved former residence offers a unique glimpse into the life of one of China’s most influential historical figures. The home itself is a beautifully maintained example of Jiangnan-style architecture, featuring courtyards, wood carvings, and traditional furnishings.
Walking through the residence feels like stepping back in time, with rooms dedicated to Zhang’s innovations in education and industry. Plaques and multimedia exhibits tell the story of his contributions to Chinese modernization. It’s an inspiring stop for those interested in history, leadership, or social reform. Quiet, contemplative, and elegantly designed, this site adds depth to any Xinghua itinerary.
9. Join a Riverboat Tour at Sunset
There’s no better way to experience Xinghua’s water town ambiance than by joining a traditional riverboat ride at sunset. These flat-bottomed boats cruise slowly through the canals and past old bridges, giving you a front-row view of everyday life unfolding along the water’s edge. As the sun sets, the sky glows in gold and orange hues, reflecting beautifully in the ripples below.
Local boatmen often share folk stories or sing traditional river songs as you float along, adding cultural richness to the visual beauty. These tours are intimate and calm, perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking a peaceful moment. Many evening tours offer tea or light snacks onboard. It’s a highlight that captures the magic of Xinghua’s timeless rhythm.
10. Visit Traditional Tea Houses for Cultural Performances
Xinghua’s tea houses are more than just places to sip jasmine or oolong—they’re community gathering spots where culture and performance intersect. Many tea houses in the old town area host small-scale traditional music shows, storytelling nights, or Chinese opera snippets. Locals come to socialize, discuss poetry, or play board games like xiangqi (Chinese chess) while sipping their favorite brew.
Travelers are warmly welcomed and often invited to join in the conversation or observe performances. These tea houses provide a slow-paced, meaningful way to experience local life. It’s not flashy or touristy—just real hospitality and cultural exchange in action. Visiting one is like being let in on a quiet local secret.
What to do if you have kids?
Xinghua is an excellent destination for families with kids, offering safe open-air spaces, educational museums, and plenty of gentle activities. A boat ride through the floating fields or a walk through Taizhou Bay Wetland Park can spark curiosity and adventure in younger travelers. Many food stalls offer mild, kid-friendly dishes, and parks around town provide space for play and rest. It’s helpful to bring a stroller for longer walks, and many attractions are accessible even with little ones in tow. With its relaxed pace and scenic charm, Xinghua makes family travel feel easy and enriching.
Where can I find free events in Xinghua China taking place this weekend?
To discover free cultural events, outdoor activities, and community festivals happening in Xinghua this weekend, head to PlanMyWeekend.ai. This easy-to-use tool highlights real-time happenings based on your location and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a free art performance, a traditional craft fair, or a flower-viewing walk, just enter “Xinghua” and your travel dates to see what’s on. It’s the best way to make the most of your stay without spending a dime—and to feel like a local while doing it.
Final thoughts
Xinghua may not be one of China’s headline destinations, but it offers something many travelers crave—genuine beauty, local warmth, and meaningful experiences. Whether you’re admiring floating flower fields, sipping tea at a riverside table, or strolling through ancient towns, the pace of life here encourages reflection and connection. Its blend of nature, history, and culture makes it an unforgettable year-round destination. If you’re looking to slow down and discover a lesser-known gem with deep roots and wide-open charm, Xinghua awaits.
Author: Dejon Brooks
Dejon Brooks is an entrepreneur who founded Trend Watchers with his life savings. Aged 24, Dejon has turned Trend Watchers into a successful business. After reaching over 150M+ people on his personal accounts, he now spends his time growing Planmyweekend.ai
