Guide for Foreigners to Arrange Their First Trip to Jiangsu

I. Preparation Before Traveling

1.  Visa and Invitation Letter

a. Visa: Foreign tourists need a valid visa to visit China. Apply for a tourist visa at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country. Verify the visa’s validity and entry conditions to match your travel plans.

b. Invitation Letter: If visiting Jiangsu for a specific event or organization, an invitation letter might be needed. For example, if attending the Jiangsu International Investment and Trade Fair, ensure you have the official invitation or confirmation.

2.  Airline Tickets

a. Book in Advance: Secure airline tickets early for better rates and seat options. Nanjing Lukou International Airport and Sunan Shuofang International Airport serve Jiangsu.

b. Online Platforms: Use platforms like Ctrip or Skyscanner to book flights and watch for deals.

3.  Hotels

a. Advance Booking: Book hotels ahead of time, particularly during peak seasons. Jiangsu offers various accommodations from budget to luxury.

b. Location: Choose a hotel near public transport or major attractions. For example, hotels in Nanjing’s city center are convenient for visiting historical sites like the Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge and the Ming Xiaoling Mausoleum.

4.  Other Preparations

a. Documents: Ensure your passport is valid and prepare necessary travel documents.

b. Communication: Obtain a local SIM card or activate international roaming. Download essential apps for maps, translations, and payments.

c. Health and Safety: Check vaccination requirements, carry basic medications, and consider travel insurance.

d. Currency and Payment: Carry a small amount of cash, even though mobile payments are widely accepted.

II. Recommended Experiences in Jiangsu

1.  Recommended Attractions

a. Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge: A historical engineering marvel and landmark.

b. Suzhou Gardens: Explore classical Chinese gardens such as the Humble Administrator’s Garden and Lingering Garden.

c. Yangzhou Slender West Lake: Enjoy picturesque lake views and historical sites.

d. Zhenjiang’s Jinshan Temple: Visit this ancient temple with beautiful surroundings and cultural significance.

e. Nanjing Museum: Discover Chinese history and culture through extensive exhibits.

2.  Recommended Jiangsu Cuisine

a. Famous Dishes: Sweet and sour Mandarin fish, Yangzhou fried rice, and Nanjing salted duck.

b. Snacks: Yangzhou fried dumplings, Nanjing duck blood soup, and Suzhou soup dumplings.

c. Tea Culture: Experience Jiangsu’s tea culture by visiting local teahouses and trying varieties of Chinese tea.

III. Things to Know When Traveling in Jiangsu

1.  Weather in Jiangsu

Jiangsu has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and damp, while summers are hot and humid. Dress appropriately according to the season: light clothing for summer and warm clothing for winter.

2.  Transportation in Jiangsu

a. Train: Jiangsu has an extensive high-speed rail network connecting major cities like Nanjing, Suzhou, and Wuxi.

b. Public Transportation: Buses and subways are well-developed in cities.

c. Taxi and Ride-Sharing: Convenient options for getting around, but be aware of potential congestion in urban areas.

d. Walking and Biking: Many cities, especially Suzhou, are pedestrian-friendly with bike-sharing services.

3.  Precautions

a. Accommodation Registration: Register your stay within 24 hours of arrival to avoid fines.

b. Compliance: Ensure to comply with visa regulations and apply for extensions if necessary.

c. Health and Quarantine: Adhere to health and quarantine regulations concerning the import of certain items.

d. Safety: Keep personal belongings secure and follow local traffic rules.

e. Cultural Respect: Respect local customs and traditions to foster positive interactions.

With these detailed preparations and precautions, foreign travelers can look forward to a memorable and enriching experience in Jiangsu.