By Jin Lu

On October 12, 85 boutique rural tourism routes were unveiled under the theme "Flavors of Life, Relaxation in the Countryside". Among the selections was the "Ningbo Sweet Food Tour", a delightful journey that highlights the region's rich culinary heritage, including four key attractions: Waxberry Orchard, Jinruitang Snack Shop, Nantang Old Street, Romon U-Park, and Yuyao Liangnong Town. Here's a guide to fully enjoy this sweet and savory route:

Start your adventure at the Waxberry Orchard in Ningbo, where visitors can savor homemade waxberry wine crafted by local orchard owners. Ningbo boasts a long history of waxberry cultivation, with Yuyao and Cixi being renowned for producing a variety of delicious, juicy fruit.

Next, head to a teahouse along the scenic shores of Moon Lake to enjoy a bowl of Ningbo Tangyuan (sticky rice balls) paired with a pot of fragrant Longjing tea. The serene lake setting and the subtle flavors of these desserts offer a truly unique experience.

Afterward, explore Nantang Old Street, a charming southern riverside town that has preserved its ancient allure. Hidden among the historic streets are culinary treasures such as Ningbo rice cakes and "Youzanzi" (fried dough twists), offering a taste of the region's traditional snacks. As evening approaches, dine near Ningbo's Drum Tower, where you can savor local specialities like Ningbo Fry-grilled Vegetables and Yellow Croaker with Pickled Mustard Greens, capturing the essence of fresh, flavorful Ningbo cuisine.

Before concluding your trip, don't miss a visit to Meilong Town, where you can take home a sweet souvenir: the famous Liangnong Rice Cake. This soft rice cake, filled with rich red bean paste, is more than just a treat—it's a symbol of Ningbo's cultural heritage. Its traditional craftsmanship has been recognized as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, carefully preserved and promoted by local artisans .