A coastal defense site located in Ningbo's Zhenhai district. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Those yearning for a memorable outdoor tour this winter should not miss Ningbo's Zhenhai district.

Sea defense 

There are more than 30 well-preserved coastal defense sites scattered throughout Zhenhai district. Visitors are also encouraged to learn about the area's fascinating history at historical museums or memorial halls.

Countryside tour

A recreational agricultural park situated in Ningbo's Zhenhai district. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Shiqifang village, or Seventeenth village, located in Xiepu town, Zhenhai district, is renowned as the location of Family Zheng's Seventeenth House.

The village was so named because its clan leader was the seventeenth son in his family. It is home to one of the largest completely intact ancient structures in China to be built in the style of the Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties in China.

The district is also home to numerous rural destinations including three provincial fruit and vegetable picking bases, where visitors are able to enjoy a slow-paced rural lifestyle.