Top 21 Must-See Attractions in Taizhou, Zhejiang

Taizhou is one of those Chinese cities with a history that stretches staggeringly deep into the past. It was first settled some five thousand years ago and is home to both the only Great Wall in Southern China and a 1500-year-old monastery that founded a school of Buddhism. That monastery is located atop Tiantai Mountain, which is only one of many natural wonders within the city’s borders.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Taizhou:

1. Tiantai Mountain

Tiantai Mountain is one of the most picturesque and culturally significant peaks in eastern China.

According to local legend, Tiantai Mountain was once situated on the back of a giant sea turtle; the creator goddess Nuwa relocated the mountain to its current position before using the legs of the sea turtle to support the heavens.

There is undeniably an ethereal quality about the mountain, particularly at the summit of its 1,138-meter height.

Visitors may also encounter an extremely rare Seven Sons tree; Tiantai Mountain is home to one of the nine remaining wild populations of this esteemed plant.

2. Guoqing Temple

This enchanting monastery is positioned near the apex of the soaring Tiantai Mountain.

It is remarkably ancient — according to records, it dates back to the year 598 — and plays a significant role in the evolution of Buddhism; the eponymous Tiantai school of the Mahayana branch originated here.

This extensive complex encompasses fourteen halls spread across 23,000 square meters of land.

Within these halls reside numerous priceless cultural artifacts, including an elegant Qing Dynasty bronze tripod, a Ming Dynasty statue of the Gautama Buddha, and five hundred golden arhats.

There is certainly much to observe in a single day, though the experience is well worth the effort.

3. Jiufeng Park

In a city abundant in green spaces, Jiufeng Park stands out as one of the best.

The park boasts nine peaks, all accessible via well-maintained, paved paths that offer splendid views of the city.

As you traverse the paths, you will cross gentle streams via classical stone bridges, which are both arched and angled.

The pathways are adorned with life-size models of traditional Chinese architecture, encompassing everything from grand palaces to modest homes.

Additionally, a small amusement area with a surprisingly exhilarating roller coaster can be found within the park’s confines.

4. Wu Zixiong Glass Art Museum

Wu Zixiong, a native of Taizhou, is regarded as one of the most prominent contemporary glass artists in China.

This impressive, gleaming museum situated in downtown Taizhou is primarily dedicated to his body of work, while also showcasing pieces by various other contemporary glass artists, including Wu Zixiong’s son and students.

At any given time, one of the artists is often present in the museum and eager to explain the artistic process behind the exhibited pieces.

Additionally, visitors can observe the artists creating new works in the on-site workshop.

Custom pieces may be crafted for visitors, potentially engraved with their names, at a reasonable price.

5. Huangyan Grottoes

The Huangyan Grottoes consist of a series of naturally-formed karst caves located in Taizhou’s Huangyan district.

The portion of the cave that is accessible to visitors is categorized into several poetically-named “rooms,” such as Grotto Lake, Emperor’s Dream, and Fairy Murals.

As is customary in many caves across China that welcome tourists, the walls are illuminated with vibrant, disco-like electric lights.

This somewhat detracts from the “natural” ambiance but does not overshadow the intricate beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites.

It is advisable to avoid visiting during summer weekends, when residents flock to this location to escape the heat.

6. Luqiao Old Street

Amidst the ultra-modern cityscape of Taizhou, it is somewhat astonishing to encounter this collection of charmingly antique, Qing Dynasty-style buildings.

Once you delve into the maze of narrow stone streets, you may easily forget you are in a contemporary city.

The historic shop buildings have often been transformed into cozy eateries where one can savor local specialties and delectable street snacks characteristic of Chinese culinary culture.

Moreover, other shops offer local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Even if you do not intend to purchase, exploring the ancient pathways can be a delightful experience.

7. Taizhou Dachen Island

The Dachens are a series of small islands located near Taizhou, primarily engaged in fishing for as long as anyone can remember.

Similar to many fishing communities globally, the fish population surrounding the Dachens has diminished significantly over past decades; the islanders have consequently turned to tourism to enhance their livelihoods.

The majority of visitors travel to the largest of the Dachens, known simply as “Taizhou Dachen Island,” via a regularly-scheduled ferry.

Upon arrival, visitors can indulge in fresh seafood, swim in the azure waters, or simply relax on the beach.

8. Qi Jiguang Memorial

Qi Jiguang was one of the most prominent generals of the Ming Dynasty, renowned for his defense of the coastal territories of China — including Taizhou — against Japanese wokou pirates.

He also authored two influential books on military strategy that remain widely read today, in addition to numerous conventionally elaborate poems and prose pieces.

Despite the fact that Qi Jiguang was neither born nor died in Taizhou, the city venerates him as a local hero and has established a fittingly grand memorial to honor his achievements.

For a nominal fee, visitors may access a small museum within the memorial explaining the accomplishments of this warlord-poet.

9. Cinnabar Heap

Taizhou was once a significant source of cinnabar, a brick-red mineral highly valued throughout the ancient world for various applications.

In China, it was primarily utilized as a coloring agent for the country’s renowned lacquered ceramics.

During the Ming Dynasty, vast quantities of cinnabar were extracted from the earth, necessitating miners to leave behind substantial piles of waste rock.

Over the intervening centuries, dense vegetation has reclaimed the waste piles, allowing them to stabilize.

The so-called “cinnabar heap” now resembles a hill that many local residents frequent for their daily exercise.

One can take the same path and reflect upon the distant past.

10. Taizhou Bay Marsh

Taizhou Bay ranks among the busiest commercial ports in China.

However, beyond the hustle and bustle of the port, there exist several relatively tranquil areas that conserve what the coastline may have appeared like prior to industrialization.

One such area is Taizhou Bay Marsh, a natural wetland renowned for its biodiversity and aesthetic appeal.

While Taizhou’s National Wetland Park functions effectively as a zoo — many of the inhabitants, including elk, peacocks, and black swans, were relocated here — the Bay Marsh represents a more authentic wetland.

This means that while there may not be as many visible creatures, those you do encounter will be a genuine delight.

11. Museum of Chinese Medicine

This small museum situated in Luqiao Old Street is devoted to the history of traditional Chinese medicine, an ancient practice that continues to play a crucial role in the lives of millions globally.

In keeping with Luqiao Old Street’s Qing Dynasty theme, the museum is designed like a traditional apothecary; the walls are lined with shelves full of glass jars, each containing different dried or pickled mysterious components.

Remarkably, the building that houses the museum was once the town’s actual apothecary.

12. Taizhou Ocean World

Taizhou Ocean World is a remarkably extensive aquarium that proclaims to be the “highest Ocean World in China.”

The substantial cyclone-shaped structure comprises nearly 9,000 square meters of exhibition space, showcasing over 1,000 different aquatic species.

Exhibits feature aquariums filled with coral reef fish, tropical freshwater fish, and an aquarium exclusively dedicated to edible fish, which is referred to as “Ocean Flavor.” Additionally, a daily live performance involves performers clad in Spandex tails swimming through a large tank, reminiscent of mermaids.

13. Wanghai Tower

Historical records indicate that a tower has existed on this site near the urban center of Taizhou since the Southern Song Dynasty.

Nonetheless, the current structure was only finalized in the early 2000s, as part of a city-wide initiative to enhance the beauty of Taizhou.

Despite its relatively recent construction, the tower embodies the architectural elements characteristic of the Song Dynasty and is as intricate and beautiful as older buildings.

For 40 yuan, visitors can ascend to the tower’s summit for a captivating view of the city.

14. Taozhu Ancient Town

Taozhu Ancient Town is an unique attraction located within Zhenjiang Linhai National Geopark.

It features a collection of charmingly irregular stone walls that once delineated the boundaries of a quaint Ming Dynasty village.

The walls, which were in a dilapidated state when the geopark opened, have since been restored to resemble their original appearance.

Some of the walls form archways that visitors can traverse along wide, paved pathways.

The outer coating of multicolored moss and shrubs on the walls provides a quaint, slightly eerie backdrop for artistic photographs.

15. Coral Rock

Coral Rock constitutes one of the most significant geological landmarks within Zhenjiang Linhai National Geopark and is undoubtedly the most frequently visited.

While it appears to resemble a colossal piece of coral emerging from the earth, it is composed of carbonate rock that originated at the bottom of a warm, shallow sea.

Due to the high solubility of carbonate rock (it reacts with hydrochloric acid present in rainwater), the exposed rock gradually eroded into the branched, organic appearance reminiscent of coral.

For an optimal experience, it is recommended to visit with a guide who can point out the exact location of the coral rock and expound on its geological significance.

16. Linhai Great Wall

Taizhou is home to the only true Great Wall in all of Southern China.

This Great Wall was never connected to the famous wall in Beijing; it was constructed during the Jin Dynasty to safeguard Taizhou from both adversaries and floods.

At its peak, the wall extended over 6,000 meters; approximately 5,000 meters remain intact today.

The town of Linhai, situated within Taizhou, serves as the most convenient access point to the wall.

Here, visitors can scale the wall and traverse its entire length.

Given that the Great Wall is arguably the most renowned historical attraction in Taizhou, it often attracts large crowds; therefore, it is advisable to avoid weekends and holidays for a more serene experience.

17. Jiyan Flavored Lamb

One of Taizhou’s most acclaimed delicacies is Jiyan flavored lamb, a complex dish prepared using the meat from “old lambs.” Officially, “old” refers to a lamb aged about six to eight months; thus, the animal is no longer considered a baby but has not yet reached the maturity to be classified as mutton.

The meat is slow-cooked with an assortment of aromatics revered for both their flavor and medicinal properties.

The result is a richly flavorful dish attributed with numerous health benefits, ranging from kidney healing to cold alleviation.

18. Taizhou Poly Grand Theater

The Taizhou Poly Grand Theater opened its doors in 2009, despite its imposing gray facade resembling a remnant from the Soviet-funded era.

This sprawling edifice features four levels across 45,000 square meters of floor space, accommodating three events concurrently.

The venue hosts approximately fifty performances annually, encompassing local arts such as Peking opera, visiting troupes from around the globe, and the customary pageants and concerts organized by local schools and institutions.

19. Huangyan Night Market

Who does not appreciate a vibrant night market? Taizhou’s own is situated in the bustling Huangyan District and opens every evening.

This market ranks among the best locations to savor delicious street food, including the ever-popular barbecue.

Simply hand the vendor the skewers of your choice, and they will grill them fresh for you.

Additionally, an array of fried delicacies awaits, from eggplant to whole squids.

Once your appetite has been satisfied, you can explore various non-edible goods, such as clothing and souvenirs.

20. Rapeseed Sea

Although its name may not be particularly appealing in English (oil producers refer to it as “canola” to mitigate this), rapeseed produces a beautifully bright flower that appears particularly stunning when it blooms in vast fields stretching to the horizon.

This phenomenon occurs annually around March in various parts of China, but Taizhou’s rapeseed fields possess a unique charm.

They thrive in marshy regions within the Taizhou Bay, creating the illusion that the sea itself is blooming in sunshine-yellow.

Boating tours through these rapeseed fields allow visitors to traverse this vibrant dreamscape of color.

21. Taizhou Commercial Street

Taizhou Commercial Street is a pedestrian shopping thoroughfare, an integral aspect of any Chinese city.

There are numerous activities to enjoy here, including a variety of shops featuring both international brands and local boutiques, a movie theater, and an array of eateries ranging from casual to upscale.

This is a superb place to sample local Taizhou cuisine in a setting that is more refined compared to the Huangyan Night Market.

A hidden gem along the street is the studio of Jing Gao, a well-known local photographer.

Visitors are welcome to step inside during her open hours to appreciate her profound world photography.