Popular Best Things to Do in Nan'ao

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东北龙

A Scenic View Between Sea and Sky —A Travelogue of Nan'ao Island Nan'ao Island, this beautiful island, is like a dazzling pearl embedded in the South China Sea, exuding a unique charm. Stretching across the Tropic of Cancer, it boasts the grandeur of mountains embracing the sea and the sweet freshness of everyday life. As the car approached the Nan'ao Cross-Sea Bridge, my heart was filled with excitement. The bridge resembled a giant dragon lying across the sea. Driving on the bridge, the sea breeze howled, and on both sides stretched the boundless ocean; the vastness and magnificence were breathtaking. The sandy beach at Qing'ao Bay was fine and soft, feeling like walking on cotton. Golden rays of sunlight shone on the sea, creating shimmering waves—a truly beautiful sight. Even the sea breeze carried a warmth. People thoroughly enjoyed the joy brought by the sunshine, the waves, and the sand. Leaving Qing'ao Bay, we continued to the General's Mansion, a historically significant military institution from the Ming and Qing dynasties, and the only island General's Mansion in the country. Stepping into the General's Mansion is like stepping back in time; its simple yet elegant architectural style blends the cultural essence of the Ming and Qing dynasties. The "Exhibition of Historical Materials on the General of Nan'ao Town, Fujian and Guangdong" inside the mansion showcases the military history and coastal defense construction of Nan'ao Island during the Ming and Qing periods through precious pictures, artifacts, and texts. The Song Wells in Yun'ao Town are said to have been dug during the late Southern Song Dynasty when the Yuan army marched south and the Southern Song court fled to this area to solve their drinking water problem. The Song Wells are only a few meters from the sea and are often submerged by the tide, but after the tide recedes, the well water is not salty and is pure and sweet. The delicious flavors of Nan'ao Island have always been closely linked to the sea. Fresh mantis shrimp, red-fingered crabs, and clams pulsate with life amidst the catch. Steamed Nan'ao golden clams with garlic and vermicelli are a must-order; the golden clams are plump and sweet, absorbing the aroma of garlic, bursting with juice with every bite. Boiled mantis shrimp best showcases their natural flavor; the shrimp meat is firm and bouncy, and a touch of soy sauce is all it takes to make them incredibly delicious. There's also the local specialty, shrimp arrows, deep-fried until crispy on the outside, filled with sand shrimp and shredded radish—a refreshing sweetness that perfectly balances the richness. The seaweed fried rice in Houzhai Town is truly exceptional. Using first-harvest seaweed unique to the 23°26′N latitude sea area, it's charcoal-roasted, mashed, and stir-fried with fresh shrimp and preserved radish. Each grain of rice is distinct, infused with the aroma of seaweed and the sweetness of the sea—every bite is pure essence. The handmade fish ball soup in Shen'ao Town is also a must-try. The fish balls are bouncy and juicy, the broth is clear and sweet, and sprinkled with scallions, it's heartwarming and comforting. For afternoon dessert, the double-skin milk pudding from Jiexin Milk Shop is a top choice. The thick milk skin melts in your mouth, with a rich milky aroma. Chengbo's taro with sugar coating is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with sugar powder evenly coating the taro pieces. It's sweet but not cloying, and paired with a cup of Aunt Feng's almond tea, the rich black sesame flavor blends perfectly with the delicate almond aroma, creating an extremely pleasant experience. As night falls, you'll see a sky ablaze with sunset colors, hear the whisper of the waves, and be surrounded by authentic local delicacies. This tranquility, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, is the most captivating aspect of Nan'ao Island. The beauty of Nan'ao Island is hidden in the light and shadow of sunrise and sunset, and in the stories of its ancient streets and alleys, leaving you with a lingering sense of longing and unforgettable memories. Its unique cultural heritage leaves a deep impression. You can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the peace and beauty of nature.