Lotus flowers bloom in Pingyuanchi village. [Photo provided to en.nantong.gov.cn]

Nantong has recently launched three travel routes that focus on the rich heritage and therapeutic practices of traditional Chinese medicine.

These routes are designed to offer visitors a comprehensive experience, allowing them to explore the historical and cultural significance of Chinese medicine while engaging in wellness activities that promote rejuvenation of both body and mind.

Route one: Encounter Nantong's TCM culture

As visitors gently run their fingertips over the ancient texts displayed within the Nantong Traditional Chinese Medicine Culture Museum, it evokes a profound sensation of touching the vibrant pulse of history itself. At the China Ophthalmology Museum, a collection of intricate medical instruments and antique texts silently narrate the centuries-long dedication to preserving and enhancing human vision, reflecting a rich heritage of ophthalmic innovation. When entering the Ganoderma Culture Museum of China, visitors are transported into the legendary realm of the "immortal herb", where the venerable tradition and modern scientific research converge. From ancient myths and traditional beliefs to cutting-edge medical evidence, the unveiling of how lingzhi mushrooms bolster immunity and contribute to overall health unfolds gradually, illustrating a timeless pursuit of holistic well-being.

Route two: Discover the secrets of longevity

The Rugao Yangtze River Medicinal Botanical Garden is a vast and diverse sanctuary that hosts over 1,600 species of medicinal plants. These plants are carefully cultivated and preserved to support both traditional medicine practices and scientific research. Within the garden, visitors can explore the Honeysuckle Herbal Theme Park, which showcases the cultural significance and therapeutic properties of honeysuckle, as well as the Aromatic Medicinal Plant Garden, dedicated to the cultivation of plants valued for their aromatic and medicinal qualities. Together, these features make the garden treasure troves of nature's bounty.

At the Rugao Shencheng Rehabilitation and Wellness Base, visitors are offered a comprehensive and rejuvenating experience designed to promote holistic well-being. They can begin their day by greeting the dawn along the serene shores of Longyou Lake, savoring the fresh, invigorating air that fosters a sense of tranquility and renewal. Additionally, guests have the opportunity to partake in specialized longevity classes, where they can learn the secrets of a long and healthy life through expert insights and traditional practices. To further enhance their wellness journey, visitors can also indulge in the soothing warmth of mugwort, which is believed to penetrate the meridians, promote circulation, and restore energetic balance throughout the body.

Hidden within the verdant and lush greenery of the region, the Hai'an Lebainian Health Town stands as a serene and restorative oasis designed to rejuvenate the urban soul. Upon entering the Herbal Wellness Culture Park, visitors are encouraged to find tranquility in an elegant, tastefully decorated tea room, where they can indulge in a carefully curated selection of herbal wellness tea.

Route three: Experience natural healing with herbal hot springs

At the Rudong Xiaoyangkou Links Tourist Resort, visitors have the opportunity to indulge in a truly rejuvenating experience by immersing themselves in the resort's renowned hot springs. These thermal waters are uniquely infused with a selection of valuable Chinese medicinal herbs, chosen for their health-promoting and therapeutic properties. The warm geothermal waters combined with the herbal essences work synergistically to soothe and relax tired muscles, promote overall well-being, and provide a luxurious and restorative escape for guests seeking both relaxation and health benefits.

At the Chinese Herbal Medicine Science Base in Bencha's ancient town, many medicinal herbs subtly share their stories. Meanwhile, at Hai'an Yazhou Modern Agricultural Park, visitors have the chance to physically interact with flourishing medicinal herbs and experience the natural vitality embedded in the plants.

At Pingyuanchi village, visitors are offered a unique culinary experience through a specialized medicinal meal that highlights the region's abundant local produce. This prepared dish features an array of fresh lotus flowers, leaves, and roots, selected for their health benefits.