Lyusi Port in Qidong, Nantong [Photo/WeChat account: gotonantong]

Lyusigang, the largest town in Qidong, Nantong, is home to one of the four largest fishing ports in China – Lyusi Port. Outside the port is Lyusi Fishing Ground, which covers 8,000 square nautical miles. 

The months of August and September mark the busiest season at the port.

Seafood at Lyusi is famous for its freshness. As the boats pull to shore, some of the day's catch are bought by tourists and locals, while the rest is quickly transported to restaurants and seafood markets.

Most restaurants in Lyusi do not have a fixed menu as the dishes are determined by what fishermen catch each day. This also ensures that customers get only the freshest of ingredients.

Steamed swimming crabs [Photo/WeChat account: gotonantong]

Now is the best time of the year to eat swimming crabs. Steaming is the easiest and most popular way of preparing the dish as it best retains the natural flavor of the crustacean.

Lyusi is also famous for its little yellow croaker and butterfish, which were recently recognized as national geographical indication trademarks.

Due to the unique geographical advantages at the fishing ground, locally produced little yellow croakers are rich in nutrients such as protein, calcium, potassium and phosphorus, and taste better than those found elsewhere.