01Donghai County
Donghai County, historically known as 'Haizhou', is under the jurisdiction of Lianyungang City, Jiangsu Province. Located in the northeastern part of Jiangsu along the Yellow Sea coast, it is renowned as the 'Crystal Capital of China'. The county covers a total area of 2,037 square kilometers and has a permanent population of approximately 1.04 million (2023). Donghai has a long history, established as a county during the Qin Dynasty over 2,200 years ago. It is famous for its abundant high-quality crystal and quartz mineral resources, with crystal reserves and quality ranking first in China. Donghai County is not only the largest crystal trading center in China but also boasts natural landscapes such as 'Shilianghe Reservoir' and 'Xishuang Lake', as well as historical sites like 'Yinwan Han Tomb'. Its unique crystal culture, hot spring resources, and ecological agriculture make it an important tourist destination and commercial hub in northern Jiangsu.
Donghai County's tourism features distinct themes centered on 'Crystal Culture', 'Hot Spring Wellness', and 'Ecological Leisure'.
1. Crystal Culture Tour: The top attraction is 'China Donghai Crystal City', located in the county center, covering about 452 mu (30 hectares). It is the largest and most comprehensive professional crystal market in China. The city is divided into multiple exhibition areas, gathering crystal rough stones, carved artworks, and jewelry from around the world. Visitors can purchase souvenirs or observe the crystal processing process. Opening hours: 8:30-17:30 (open all year round). Adjacent to Crystal City, the 'Crystal Museum' (free, open Tuesday to Sunday 9:00-17:00) systematically displays the formation, mining, processing, and cultural history of crystals.
2. Hot Spring Wellness Experience: 'Donghai Hot Spring' (also known as 'Xiaosongyuan Hot Spring') is located in Wenquan Town, about 15 km northwest of the county seat. The spring water temperature reaches 82°C, rich in various minerals, classified as a fluorine-silicon composite medical thermal mineral water. Major hot spring resorts include 'Furu Donghai Hot Spring Hotel' and 'Xiaosongyuan Hot Spring Bath', offering indoor and outdoor pools, SPA services, etc. Recommended soaking time is 1-2 hours, with tickets about 128 yuan/person (weekdays).
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3. Natural and Ecological Scenic Areas: 'Xishuang Lake Scenic Area' (free, open all day) is located in the western suburbs of the county seat, covering about 8 square kilometers. It features lake scenery and wetland ecology, suitable for cycling and walking. 'Shilianghe Reservoir' (20 km north of the county seat) is the largest artificial reservoir in Jiangsu Province, with open water areas. Visitors can take boat tours (about 50 yuan/person), and nearby fishing villages offer fresh fish feasts. 'Qingsongling Forest Park' (ticket 30 yuan, 8:00-17:00) is located in Shuangdian Town, known for its vast black pine forest and rural scenery, suitable for camping and family activities.
4. Historical and Cultural Exploration: 'Yinwan Han Tomb' (about 10 km southwest of the county seat in Yinwan Village, Wenquan Town) is a family burial site from the Western Han Dynasty. It yielded the famous 'Yinwan Han Tomb Bamboo Slips', which are of great value for studying the administrative system of the Han Dynasty. The site is preserved in situ and can be visited for free, but advance contact with the local cultural relics protection office is required. 'Hailing Ancient City Site' (in the county center) is the former site of the Tang Dynasty Haizhou administrative seat, with remaining sections of city walls and moats.
5. Local Cuisine: Donghai County is famous for 'Donghai Old Huai Pork', 'Shilianghe Big Fish Head', and 'Crystal Jelly Meat'. It is recommended to taste them at 'Heping Road Food Street' in the county seat, with per capita consumption of 30-60 yuan. 'Mutton Soup' in Shuangdian Town is also a must-try in winter.
Transportation Guide: Donghai County has convenient transportation. The high-speed rail station 'Donghai County Station' is located on the north side of the county seat, connecting to Lianyungang, Xuzhou, Nanjing, etc. (about 20 minutes to Lianyungang Station). The long-distance bus station has buses to Nanjing, Shanghai, and other cities. Within the county, visitors can take buses or taxis to various attractions. Bus fares are 1-2 yuan, and taxi starting fare is 6 yuan.