Huai An 淮安市 — Birthplace of Zhou Enlai & Canal City
Huai'an is best known as the birthplace of Premier Zhou Enlai, one of modern China's most respected leaders. The city preserves his childhood home and a memorial hall that draws visitors from across China.
The city sits on the Grand Canal and the Huai River, and its historical role as a canal transportation hub left it with a rich architectural heritage, including the ancient canal governance complex.
Huai'an cuisine is distinctive — the city is one of the four great culinary traditions of Jiangsu, known for its refined, slightly sweet flavors and emphasis on river fish.
The childhood home and memorial to Zhou Enlai (1898–1976), one of the founding leaders of the People's Republic of China. The complex includes his birthplace, a replica of his Beijing office, and extensive exhibits on his life and legacy. The memorial is one of China's most visited political sites.
Hours: 8:30–17:00 (closed Mon)
Admission: Free (bring ID)
The former Grand Canal Governance Office (总督漕运公署), which managed canal transportation for all of China during the Ming and Qing dynasties. The restored complex provides insight into the canal's crucial role in China's economy and the massive bureaucracy that managed it.
Hours: 9:00–17:00
Admission: ¥40
Huai'an is one of the birthplaces of Huaiyang cuisine, one of China's Four Great Cuisines. The city's restaurant streets offer authentic versions of classic dishes like braised pork balls (狮子头), fried rice cakes (软兜长鱼), and steamed perch.
Hours: Restaurants 10:00–21:00
Admission: Free (food costs vary)