Hua'ao Island: Ningbo's coastal gem

A spectacular view of Hua'ao Island. [Photo/WeChat account: nbfb0574]

Hua'ao Island in Xiangshan county, Ningbo offers a stunning blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Frequently featured in the prestigious Chinese National Geography magazine, the island is famed for its mint-blue waters and very special geology.

The Hua'ao Stone Forest is the island's geological centerpiece — formed 120 million years ago from acidic volcanic eruptions. Towering columnar rocks rise from the cliffs, shaped by wind and waves into walls, caves and forest-like formations.

Visitors can explore the Hua'ao Salt Fields, Zhejiang's last traditional sun-dried sea salt site, with salt farming techniques dating back to the Tang (618-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties. Try harvesting salt by hand and learn the craft firsthand.

Tourists go beachcombing on the shore. [Photo/WeChat account: nbfb0574]

Beachcombing is another highlight — search for shells and sea creatures left behind by the tide. Tourists can also visit sea duck farms and sample their rich, flavorful eggs.

As evening falls, unwind at the Infarm Campsite. Watch the sunset from your tent, enjoy an outdoor movie and relax to the sound of the waves.

Island shuttle buses connect major attractions daily from 8:15 am to 4:30 pm. Self-drive visitors can take a car ferry at Jinggaoyi Wharf for a round trip. The first ferry departs from Jinggaoyi at 6:50 am and the last return ferry leaves Hu'ao Island Wharf at 5:00 pm, with departures every hour.

A view of the Hua'ao Salt Fields. [Photo/WeChat account: nbfb0574]