Zhenjiang

镇江

Historic port city on the Yangtze River famous for its distinctive vinegar and Three Gorges-like scenic views. Jiao Mountain Park offers panoramic river vistas and contains ancient temples with literary significance.

Things to do

• Jiao Mountain Park — Climb to the summit of this scenic mountain for panoramic views of the Yangtze River and visit the ancient Dinghui Temple with its literary heritage.
• Xishan Scenic Area — Explore riverside cliffs and gardens with views reminiscent of the Three Gorges, featuring walking paths and traditional pavilions.
• Zhenjiang Museum — Discover the city's maritime history, vinegar-making heritage, and ancient artifacts spanning from the Neolithic period to the Qing Dynasty.
• Nanshan Scenic Area — Walk through bamboo groves and ancient temple ruins while enjoying panoramic views of the Yangtze River valley.
• Zhenjiang Vinegar Factory Tour — Visit a traditional vinegar production facility to witness the centuries-old fermentation process and purchase authentic Zhenjiang vinegar.
• Iron Pagoda of Beigu寺 — View this historic iron pagoda dating back to the Song Dynasty, a distinctive landmark reflecting the city's ancient Buddhist heritage.
• Riverside Walk along Yangtze — Stroll along the waterfront promenade to observe boat traffic and enjoy sunset views of the mighty Yangtze River.

Food to try

• Zhenjiang Vinegar — This dark, fragrant vinegar made from glutinous rice has been produced for over 3,000 years and is essential to local cuisine with a distinctive aromatic profile.
• Zhenjiang Xie Fen (crab powder pastry) — Delicate pastries filled with shredded crab meat and roe, representing the city's signature snack often paired with tea.
• Yangtze River Fresh Fish Soup — A savory broth made from freshly caught river fish, typically silver carp or grass carp, with seasonal vegetables and Zhenjiang vinegar.
• Pijiu Ya (beer duck) — Duck braised in local beer with spices and vinegar, creating a tender dish that balances savory and acidic flavors typical of Zhenjiang cuisine.
• Zhenjiang Pickled Vegetables — Various seasonal vegetables preserved in brine with vinegar and spices, served as condiments or side dishes throughout meals.
• Long Jiang Huo (dragon well prawns) — Fresh river prawns stir-fried with local green tea leaves and seasoned with Zhenjiang vinegar for a unique umami-rich dish.

Local customs & good to know

• Vinegar etiquette in dining — Zhenjiang vinegar appears on nearly every dining table; locals use it generously as a condiment and appreciate visitors who embrace this flavor tradition respectfully.
• Riverfront timing — Visit riverside attractions and parks early morning or at dusk to avoid midday heat and enjoy the best light for viewing the Yangtze's dramatic landscape.
• Temple visit customs — When visiting ancient temples on Jiao Mountain and elsewhere, dress modestly, walk counterclockwise around prayer halls, and avoid pointing at religious statues or artwork.
• Seasonal river appreciation — Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable viewing conditions for river vistas; summer can be extremely humid while winter winds can be strong along the water.