
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Huai’an, Jiangsu, China
1. Ancient Liuhe Pagoda
A seven-story pagoda dating back to the Tang Dynasty, unique for its circular shape and single central pillar.
- Circular Design: Unusual circular design contrasts traditional square or rectangular Chinese pagodas.
- Single Central Pillar: Supporting a complete structure with just one central pillar is an architectural marvel.
- Historical Significance: It offers a glimpse into the rich history of Huai’an during the Tang Dynasty.
2. The Ghost City of Xianrendong
A city abandoned for over 100 years, said to be haunted by the spirits of its former inhabitants.
- Haunting Aura: Provides an eerie and mysterious atmosphere unlike any other tourist spot.
- Abandoned Architecture: Showcases well-preserved, centuries-old buildings untouched by modern development.
- Legendary Ghost Stories: Adds an element of thrill and excitement to the exploration experience.
3. Underground Wine Cellar
An ancient wine cellar hidden beneath a mountain, filled with thousands of jugs of yellow rice wine.
- Hidden Location: Accessible only via a narrow cave and adds an element of adventure to the visit.
- Historical Significance: It offers insights into traditional wine-making techniques and local culture.
- Taste the Ancient Wine: An opportunity to taste centuries-old rice wine, considered a unique Huai’an delicacy.
4. The Weeping Camphor Tree
A camphor tree that has been weeping for over 100 years, producing a clear liquid believed to have healing properties.
- Legendary Healing Powers: The weeping liquid is said to have healing powers, attracting visitors seeking health benefits.
- Century-Old Tree: A centuries-old tree with a fascinating history adds a sense of wonder and mystery.
- Natural Attraction: Provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city life, surrounded by lush greenery.
5. The Bamboo Sea
A vast expanse of bamboo forest that turns into a sea during the rainy season.
- Natural Phenomenon: Offers a unique visual spectacle when the bamboo forests flood.
- Biodiversity: Provides a sanctuary for various bird and wildlife species.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers spectacular photo opportunities, especially during the bamboo sea season.
6. The Saltwell of Huai’an
An ancient well that produces a natural brine used for producing salt.
- Historical Significance: It has been in operation since the Tang Dynasty, showcasing traditional methods of salt production.
- Natural Production Process: Provides insights into the natural process of brine extraction and salt formation.
- Tasting Freshly Produced Salt: An opportunity to taste salt freshly produced from the well.
7. The Stone Forest of Huai’an
A forest made up of giant, naturally weathered stone pillars.
- Natural Stone Formations: Showcases unique and spectacular natural rock formations.
- Geological Interest: Offers insights into the geological history of Huai’an through its stone formations.
- Photography Opportunities: Provides ample opportunities for stunning landscape photography.
8. The Iron Bridge of Huai’an
An ancient bridge made entirely from cast iron, said to be the oldest iron bridge in China.
- Historical Significance: Represents a significant milestone in Chinese engineering and construction history.
- Iron Construction: Showcases the unique use of cast iron in architecture, which was rare during its time.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers beautiful and unique architectural photography opportunities.
9. The Rainbow Waterfall
A seasonal waterfall that creates a rainbow during sunny days.
- Natural Phenomenon: Provides an opportunity to witness the beautiful and rare sight of a rainbow waterfall.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers a serene and picturesque setting for relaxation and meditation.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers ample opportunities for breathtaking landscape photography.
10. The Dragon's Well Park
A park featuring a well that is said to be the source of Huai River.
- Historical Significance: Represents the origin of one of China's major rivers.
- Natural Water Source: Provides insights into the natural water sources and geology of Huai’an.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers a serene and picturesque setting for relaxation and reflection.
11. The Turtle Watching Island
An island famous for the large number of turtles that inhabit it.
- Wildlife Observation: Provides an opportunity to observe and learn about various turtle species.
- Natural Habitat: Offers insights into the natural habitat and behavior of these fascinating creatures.
- Peaceful Environment: Provides a tranquil and peaceful environment for relaxation and reflection.
12. The Ghost Festival Market
A market that comes alive during the Ghost Festival, selling ghost-related goods and food.
- Festival Culture: Offers insights into Chinese festival culture and traditions.
- Superstitions and Folklore: Provides an opportunity to learn about local superstitions, ghost stories, and folklore.
- Unique Souvenirs: Offers a chance to purchase unique souvenirs related to the Ghost Festival.
13. The Haunted Mansion of Huai’an
A mansion rumored to be haunted by the spirits of its former residents.
- Haunting Aura: Provides an eerie and mysterious atmosphere unlike any other tourist spot.
- Abandoned Architecture: Showcases well-preserved, centuries-old buildings untouched by modern development.
- Legendary Ghost Stories: Adds an element of thrill and excitement to the exploration experience.
14. The Giant Panda Sculpture Park
A park featuring large sculptures of giant pandas in various poses.
- Wildlife Appreciation: Provides an opportunity to appreciate and learn about these iconic creatures.
- Artistic Expression: Showcases the creative talents of local artists through their giant panda sculptures.
- Photography Opportunities: Offers ample opportunities for stunning and unique photography.
15. The Floating Market of Huai’an
A traditional market set on boats during the rice harvest season.
- Historical Significance: Represents a tradition dating back centuries in Huai’an.
- Cultural Experience: Offers a unique and authentic cultural experience.
- Fresh Produce: Provides an opportunity to purchase fresh and unique local produce.