Changzhou sits on the southern bank of the Yangtze in southern Jiangsu, roughly midway between Shanghai and Nanjing. It is a working Yangtze Delta city with a dense network of waterways, the Grand Canal running through it, and a cluster of attractions that range from a large dinosaur-themed amusement park to one of China's major Zen Buddhist temples.
For a visitor, the practical geography is fairly simple. The city centre holds the main urban amenities, with Hongmei Park and Tianning Temple just to its east. Xinbei District lies to the north, around the high-speed rail station and the airport, and is where you find the Dinosaur Park. Wujin lies to the south, beyond the Grand Canal. The metro, the BRT system and the two main railway stations tie these pieces together. This guide covers which of these areas to base yourself in, and what each is like for different kinds of trips.
Best areas to stay in Changzhou
1. City centre
The centre is the most convenient base for a general visit. It puts you within easy reach of the Tianning Temple and Hongmei Park, both of which sit just to the east of the centre, and it is where the bulk of the city's accommodation is found. Most of it is geared toward business travellers, so upmarket international-style hotels are abundant.
This area suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants to walk to the main central sights rather than plan around transport. Be aware that decent budget options are limited across the city, and the centre is no exception.
2. Xinbei District
Xinbei is the northern district, home to Changzhou North station on the Beijing–Shanghai high-speed railway and to Changzhou Benniu International Airport, about 15 km from the city centre. It is also where the China Dinosaurs Park is located, with its fossil collection, amusement rides and themed areas.
This area suits families travelling with children and anyone arriving or departing by high-speed rail or air who wants to minimise transfers. It is a practical base rather than a central one, so expect to use the metro or other transport to reach the centre and its sights.
3. Wujin
Wujin lies to the south, beyond the Grand Canal, and is described as being out on the periphery rather than downtown. It is a district with its own accommodation, including larger upmarket properties set in landscaped grounds.
This area suits travellers who need to be in the south of the city or who prefer a quieter, more spread-out setting. The key practical point is distance: if your plans centre on the city centre, Hongmei Park or Tianning Temple, staying here means a longer trip in each time.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Options are limited in Changzhou, as most accommodation is aimed at business travellers. Expect fewer choices at this level and plan to book early.
- Mid-range: The practical middle ground for most visitors, with a range of standard city hotels, particularly in the city centre.
- Splurge: Upmarket, international-style hotels are abundant, aimed largely at business travellers. The largest of these tend to sit outside the centre, in districts such as Wujin.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in the city centre. It keeps you close to Hongmei Park and Tianning Temple, which are just to the east of the centre, and it is where the widest choice of accommodation is found. You will spend less time travelling to the sights you came to see.
Frequently asked questions
Which area is best if I am visiting the Dinosaur Park?
Xinbei District, in the north of the city, is where the China Dinosaurs Park is located. Staying there also puts you near Changzhou North station and the airport.
Where should I stay to be near Tianning Temple and Hongmei Park?
Both are located just to the east of the city centre, so the city centre is the natural base for visiting them.
Is Changzhou a good place for budget travellers?
Accommodation in Changzhou is mostly geared toward business travellers. Upmarket international-style hotels are abundant, but decent budget options are limited.
How do I get around between these areas?
Changzhou has a metro system, a bus rapid transit system with two main lines and eight branch lines, and two main railway stations. The BRT costs two yuan and provides access throughout the city.
Compare live prices for your dates with the booking tools on this page before you decide where to base yourself.