1. What Makes Cicheng Special?
Cicheng, the old county town of Cixi in Ningbo, is the only place in China that retains the street layout from the Tang Dynasty. The grandson of the Tang Prime Minister Fang Xuanling was demoted here as the first county magistrate, creating a mini Chang’an with a grid pattern, straight streets, and a surrounding moat. Cicheng is recognized as the best-preserved ancient county town in Jiangnan and has received a UNESCO “Cultural Heritage Protection Honor Award.” Its architecture is rustic, with old bricks and tiles repurposed by locals to build their homes, inspiring the designs of architect Wang Shu.
2. What to Do in Cicheng?
To visit all attractions, arrive early; they are mainly concentrated in the northern part of the town. Key sites include:
- The largest ancient government office in Jiangnan.
- Chenghuang Temple, where traditional Yue opera performances occur daily.
- An interactive experience making traditional rice cakes, featured on “A Bite of China.”
- The Feng Family residence showcases artworks and collectibles of renowned artist Feng Jicai, with lovely waterside views.
The town’s ancient buildings date back to the Guangxu era, and visiting the Ming Dynasty private residence, Feng Yu’s house, requires an entrance fee, resulting in fewer visitors. A notable feature is a hand-painted depiction of Cicheng from 1938, created by a 90-year-old overseas resident.
3. What to Eat in Cicheng?
Cicheng’s most famous restaurant, located by Cihu Lake, serves delicious dishes such as:
- Wine-marinated walnut soup and sweet osmanthus stir-fried rice cakes.
- Savory dishes like kidney and boiled pork intestine.
- Particularly tasty chicken feet.
- Recommended dishes include fried intestines with noodles and eel stir-fried with oil residue, both aromatic and delicious.
- The roasted duck noodle soup is exceptionally fresh.
While the dining environment may be modest, food lovers won’t mind the humble setting.
4. What to Buy in Cicheng?
For traditional snacks, Cicheng rice cakes are a must-try. Made only from late japonica rice, they pair well with various ingredients like wild vegetables, seafood, and sweet osmanthus.
5. How to Get to Cicheng?
Take a one-hour bus from Ningbo city center to Cicheng Bus Station.
6. Where to Stay in Cicheng?
You can stay at a renovated residence of a former Shanghai clothing magnate, which retains its original charm. It’s also a nice spot to relax over tea. Additionally, Da Le Zhi Ye has opened several locations in the area, featuring semi-outdoor hot spring pools by a stream and stylish white villas.