Nature
Langshan Mountain
Ranked first among Buddhism's Eight Small Sacred Mountains, Guangjiao Temple dates to Tang Dynasty with panoramic views of Yangtze estuary.
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
¥50
Nantong's history stretches back over 5,000 years, with archaeological evidence of Neolithic settlements in the area. The region was part of the ancient Wu and Yue kingdoms during the Spring and Autumn period.
During the Tang Dynasty (618-907), Nantong began developing as a salt production center, taking advantage of its coastal location. The city's salt industry continued to flourish through subsequent dynasties.
The modern era of Nantong began with Zhang Jian (1853-1926), a Qing Dynasty scholar-turned-entrepreneur who transformed the city. After failing the imperial examinations multiple times, Zhang eventually achieved the highest degree and became a pioneer of modern Chinese industry.
In 1895, Zhang Jian founded Dasheng Cotton Mill, one of China's first modern textile factories. He went on to establish numerous "firsts" in Chinese history: first public museum (Nantong Museum, 1905), first normal school for teacher training, first textile school, and first agricultural school. His comprehensive development model made Nantong a model city for China's modernization.
The city earned the title "China's First Modern City" for Zhang Jian's systematic approach to development, combining industry, education, and urban planning. His philosophy of "industrial salvation" influenced generations of Chinese entrepreneurs.
Today, Nantong continues to honor Zhang Jian's legacy while developing as a modern economic center. The city has become part of the Yangtze River Delta urban cluster, with bridges connecting it directly to Shanghai.
