Yancheng's cranes, Lianyungang's islands and Nantong's tidal flats — three cities along the Yellow Sea coastline reveal Jiangsu's most lively river-and-sea ecological secrets. In just three days, you can fully immerse yourself in nature and experience the joy of the wild.
In the early morning, the Yellow Sea Wetlands of Yancheng are still wrapped in mist, while red-crowned cranes unfold their pure white wings over the reed beds. You can follow a birdwatching guide to the observation platform, set up your binoculars, and watch these "celestial cranes" peck for fish and shrimp as their crisp calls echo across the wetlands. In the morning, it is advised to visit the Dafeng Milu National Nature Preserves , where a herd of the "four-not-like" deer runs across the grassy fields, their antlers glinting in the sunlight.
Lianyungang: Island Adventures and the Sound of Waves
Take an early morning ferry to Lian Island. The sea breeze, thick with salty moisture, greets you as you step onto the fine sands of Dasha Bay. Watch the sun rise over the horizon, casting golden light across the waves. In the morning, you can climb Huaguo Mountain and follow the macaque troops through the forest while listening to the guide recount legends from Journey to the West. Feel the cool spray as water splashes in front of Water Curtain Cave. In the afternoon, a great option is to hike along the streams at Yuwan Scenic Area, where waterfalls cascade over rocks and their mist forms rainbows. At dusk, you can return to Xugou Seafood Market to select fresh mantis shrimp, have them prepared with salt and pepper, and savor the crispy exterior and tender interior. To enjoy this wonderful seaside delight, you can pair it with beer from Lianyungang while listening to the sound of the waves.
Nantong: Tidal Flats and the Joy of Sea Harvest
At dawn, the Golden Beach of Nantong reveals its tidal flats, dotted with small crabs and clams. People can carry a small bucket and a shovel, and learn the local "sea harvesting" techniques from the fishermen. Dig through the mud to discover plump clams hiding below — every find brings a fresh surprise. Also, you can visit Yuantuojiao Scenic Area to see where the Yangtze, Yellow and East China Seas converge — their distinct waters form a spectacular sight. In the evening, why not stopping by a farmhouse restaurant and order a bowl of clam and tofu soup? It’ll be a great way to experience the fresh essence of the tidal flats — imagine you’re having the tasteful and crispy Xiting biscuits, unveiling a journey full of Nantong flavor.
From the dancing cranes of Yancheng wetlands to sea harvesting on Nantong's tidal flats, the ecological journey is far more than ordinary sightseeing, but captures the most vibrant natural vitality of Jiangsu — discovering the nature and tasting the river and sea.
