Ningbo combines sporting events with city getaways

Elena Rybakina visits Zoumatang village in Ningbo in 2025. [Photo/Yongpai app]

Ningbo is pairing a busy autumn sports calendar with travel experiences and visitor benefits, encouraging fans to explore the city beyond its stadiums. 

Running from October through December, the initiative brings together international competitions, professional fixtures and community events, with tennis and weightlifting among the highlights.

The WTA 500 Ningbo Open will take place at the Ningbo (Yinzhou) Tennis Center from Oct 17 to 25, followed by the World Weightlifting Championships at the Ningbo Olympic Sports Center from Oct 27 to Nov 8. The championships are returning to China for the first time in 31 years and will serve as the first qualifying event for weightlifting at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.

Sailing, half-marathon and trail-running events will also give participants opportunities to experience Ningbo's coastline and mountain scenery.

To help turn a match-day visit into a longer stay, the city is preparing themed itineraries for sports fans, families and cultural travelers. Planned activities around venues and shopping districts include pop-up events, travel information and interactive giveaways.

The initiative will also link up with "有票就GO了", a citywide WeChat mini-program offering special deals and benefits to visitors. A dedicated page is planned where eligible users can upload their competition registration records, match tickets or official electronic ticket stubs to verify their eligibility.

Benefits are expected to include discounts on hotels, shopping and dining, as well as Didi ride vouchers, encouraging visitors to extend their stays beyond the sporting events.