Nanning

About Nanning

Known in China as the Green City for its tree-lined avenues and year-round greenery, Nanning is the capital of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, a relaxed subtropical city on the Yong River in the far south of the country. Its mild winters and lush parks make it one of the more liveable large cities in southern China.

Nanning is the cultural centre of the Zhuang, China's largest ethnic minority, and the city's museums and festivals celebrate the songs, bronze drums and traditions of Guangxi's many peoples. Its location close to Vietnam has also made it a gateway for trade with Southeast Asia, and Vietnamese influences show up in the food.

Visitors come for green spaces such as Qingxiu Mountain and Nanhu Park, for night markets serving sour, spicy laoyou noodles and lemon duck, and as a base for excursions into the karst countryside of Guangxi. Yangmei Ancient Town, Yiling Cave and the forests of Damingshan are all within reach.