Historical Background
- Nanning boasts over 2,100 years of urban history and has long served as a key gateway between ancient “Nanyue” and Southeast Asia, with human activity traced back to 214 BC.
- Relics such as the Ming‑Qing city walls, ancient pagodas, and the Dragon‑Elephant Pagoda preserve the city’s rich historical memory.
- On December 3, 1949, the People’s Liberation Army entered Nanning, marking the start of its modern era.（https://www.bilibili.com/video/BV1ZfBAYCEfT?t=14.3）
Economic Development
- In 2024, the city’s GDP reached ¥5,995.36 billion, a 3 % year‑on‑year increase, with the tertiary sector driving growth, making Nanning the economic core of Guangxi.
- Despite external pressures, the first half of the year saw GDP growth slow to about 2 % but still exceeding ¥2,700 billion, demonstrating strong resilience.
- High‑tech parks, the Wuxiang New Area headquarters base, and other “innovation platforms” are rapidly attracting domestic and foreign enterprises, shaping Nanning into an international business hub for ASEAN.
Cultural Vitality
- The 2024 China‑ASEAN Cultural & Creative Week opened spectacularly at the Nanning International Convention & Exhibition Center, blending creative design, traditional crafts, and local cuisine to spark cross‑border cultural exchange.
- “Lao You Fen” (old‑friend rice noodles) was incorporated into the 2024 national group standard, systematically documenting its history and brand‑promotion path, helping this iconic dish reach a nationwide audience.（https://www.toutiao.com/video/7504994905069011493/?channel=&source=video_oracle）
- The Zhuang ethnic “April 4th Harvest Festival” continues in Wuming’s Jing San Village, recognized as a regional intangible cultural heritage and serving as a showcase of Zhuang culture.
- Guangxi’s Zhuang brocade—a unique ethnic textile art—is being revitalized through both cultural tourism and creative industries, attracting tourists and designers alike.
Tourist Resources
- Qingxiu Mountain Scenic Area (A‑AAA level) features more than 50 attractions: Guanyin Zen Temple, ASEAN Friendship Garden, millennium Cycas Grove, rainforest panorama, etc., combining “urban green lung” with cultural display.
- Nanhu Park, the city’s largest inner lake (191.92 ha), includes a orchid garden, children’s playground, and the Baise Uprising exhibition hall; it is free and enjoyable year‑round, a hotspot for locals and visitors.
- The 12th Nanning Garden Expo and 12th International Horticultural Expo (2024) attracted nearly 1.8 million visitors, generating tourism revenue exceeding ¥10 billion.
- Night‑time activity “Nanning Night Garden” at the north gate of Qingxiu Mountain offers immersive lighting, holographic projections, and other experiences, lighting up the city from summer through autumn.
Recommended 2‑Day Itinerary
1️⃣ Day 1 – Take Metro Line 3 to Qingxiu Mountain; explore Guanyin Zen Temple, ASEAN Friendship Garden, and the rainforest panorama. In the evening, enjoy the Qingxiu Mountain Light Festival or Night Garden for a stunning light‑show experience.
2️⃣ Day 2 – Morning boat ride and orchid garden visit at Nanhu Park; lunch featuring Lao You Fen. In the afternoon, head to the Garden Expo or join the ongoing China‑ASEAN Cultural & Creative Week to experience a cross‑cultural creative market.
Closing Note
With its deep history, robust economy, vibrant culture, and abundant natural scenery, Nanning is rapidly evolving into a “International Gateway City toward ASEAN.” Whether for business, cultural exchange, or leisure travel, Nanning offers a unique charm worth exploring. Come to Nanning and experience the freshness of a green city, the diversity of its culture, and the dynamism of its economy!
