As you may already know, China has expanded its visa-free travel policies, including the recent extension of transit visa-free stays to 240 hours, opening the door for more international friends to experience China. If you want to come to China, Nantong in Jiangsu province is a good place to start.

Surrounded by water on three sides, the city is located at the mouth of the Yangtze River, with fantastic natural and cultural attractions as well as numerous unique foods. Here's a detailed one-day itinerary for your time in Nantong.

At dawn, view the earliest sunrise in Jiangsu at the beach of the Yellow Sea in Qidong, a county-level city in Nantong. The beach there is recognized as the "Golden Beach" - when the sun rises, the whole beach turns gold, bright and dazzling.

Golden Beach in Qidong. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

Next, proceed to Rugao, another county-level city of Nantong, to enjoy the authentic local morning tea and then walk around in the Shuihui Garden, a representative of Jiangnan-style architecture. The garden also encompasses a Rugao-style bonsai garden, a museum of longevity, a zoo, and an amusement park.

As noon approaches, have lunch on Nandajie, one of Nantong's most bustling commercial avenues. The area also features the city's most renowned landmark - the Bell Tower - built in 1915. The bell rings every hour, just as it did 100 years ago.

After launch, climb up Langshan Mountain. The observation deck on the top of the mountain is an excellent place to observe the scenery of the Yangtze River.

Langshan Mountain. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

Nantong Museum, the China's very first public museum, is also a good place to visit. It was founded by renowned industrialist and educator Zhang Jian (1853-1926), creatively blending modern museum ideas with traditional Chinese garden aesthetics.

Three kilometers away from the Nantong Museum is the Haohe River Scenic Area, another famous attraction in Nantong. It is one of the most complete and well-preserved city moats in China, known as "the Emerald Necklace of Nantong".

Haohe River. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

In the evening, take a boat on the Haohe River, feel the gentle breeze, enjoy the natural and cultural landscape, and then bathe in the hot spring nearby. How relaxing!