Jinhua Travel Guide
Introduction
While it is not known at all in recreational travel circles, the city of Jinhua has long been on the map of business travellers. Home to one of the largest trading markets in the world, this place is where many businesses acquire products they can turn around and sell in their brick and mortar establishments, or in their online store.
Despite its buttoned-up reputation, there are a number of touristic attractions that will fill your time outside of any commercial obligations that bring you here.
Come check out our Jinhua travel guide to China as we cover the best things to do in Jinhua.
Top Attractions
In the present day, Jinhua is best known by those in the business world for being a place where entrepreneurs can come to find products they can resell in their own countries at a profit. Thanks to the presence of Yiwu International Trade City, this task is made ridiculously easy.
The world’s largest market for mass-market, non-technical goods like clothing and furniture, the selection on offer here is dizzying. This place began to trade random goods in the 17th century, as the area had no natural resources it could count on for easy wealth.
Given its proximity to the east coast ports of China, the market grew quickly until the Jinhua area developed a reputation among merchants far and wide. The present Yiwu Market dates its existence to 1982 when a concrete boards were erected over a ditch on the side of the road, granting a space for 700 vendors to set up shop.
Today, its focus on small orders has made this place popular with traders from Russia, the Middle East, and Africa. As such, adjacent streets have become populated with restaurants which cater to these business people, making for a cool place to dine after wandering the labyrinth hallways of these massive market.
After indulging in this massive dose of capitalistic tourism, get back to nature by paying a visit to Shuanglong Cave. Translating directly to ‘Double Dragon’ Cave, this isn’t where you’ll find the characters from the classic NES video game, but rather, it refers to two side-by-side stalactites that bear an uncanny resemblance to dragon heads.
As a flooded cave, those touring the cave can only do so by boarding a boat. The clearance at the entrance is tight, making it a place that claustrophobics may want to skip. If you can, though, you’ll want to tough it, as there is a stunning 26-foot tall waterfall within, in addition to all the stalactites, stalagmites, and other cave structures.
There are other karst caves in the adjacent area that are also worth exploring, making the Jinhua area an awesome one for avid spelunkers.
There are a couple Taoist halls of worship that are worth seeing on a visit to Jinhua. Start by checking out Wong Tai Sin Temple, as its peaceful atmosphere and incense-filled ceremonies will help you get in touch with your spirituality.
This temple is popular among those from Hong Kong, as they have a prominent temple which is patterned off this one, which is the original one.
Also, make time to check out the Huangdaxian Palace. Dedicated to Wang Da Xian, a virtuous person who did much to help the needy in Hong Kong, this structure blends in well amidst the mountains which tower above Jinhua. Don’t forget to try the barbecue here – regulars rave about it online!
Other Attractions
Escape from the urban hustle and bustle above Jinhua by taking a day trip to Mount Jiufeng. Apart from the fresh air, the trees, and the tremendous views of the surrounding areas, this area is also known for its thermal springs.
Don’t want to leave so soon after an amazing day out? There are cabins you can rent, so feel free to reserve them if you want to extend your stay here.
Get an idea how those who call Jinhua live their daily lives by spending an hour or so hanging out in the People’s Square. Here, you’ll see people practising tai chi, singing, writing calligraphy, playing cards, among other activities.
Be sure to come by in the evening, as this is when the square is at its busiest. There are many stalls where you can buy food, but be sure to try some local Jinhua shortbread.
Need to take a break from the busy streets of Jinhua? Duck into Aiqing Cultural Park, as it is here where you won’t just find greenery and tranquil spaces, but modern work of art as well. Despite this, though, this space isn’t as popular as you might expect, making it a great place to go for a run during the morning hours.
Cherry Park is another green space that is worth a look. The evening is the time when you’ll want to visit this place, as not only is it busy with locals enjoy each other’s company, but a light show goes off here on a nightly basis that is entertaining for even those who can’t understand Mandarin.