Here is a handy guide to help you catch the daily blue hour in Chongchuan district, Nantong, Jiangsu province, when the sky and its waterways take on deep-blue hues around sunrise and sunset.

Haohe River scenic area

The Haohe River scenic area in Chongchuan. [Photo by Chen Dejun to en.nantong.gov.cn]

The Haohe River was designed as a moat encircling the city. The Jiuqu Bridge, Wenfeng Tower and Nantong Museum are reflected in the water. Visitors can take boat tours, and the lights on the boats create flickering reflections across the surface. 

The Binjiang area of the Five Mountain areas

The Binjiang area of the Five Mountain areas in Chongchuan. [Photo by Wan Jun to en.nantong.gov.cn]

From the observation deck, visitors enjoy sweeping views. The Zhiyun Tower stands on top of Langshan Mountain, while the Yangtze River below turns deep blue, with cargo vessels gliding along gently. On the riverfront, the water shimmers at twilight, and the distant bridge's lights can be seen across the river.

The Grand Canal

The Grand Canal in Chongchuan. [Photo by Jin Luoyang to en.nantong.gov.cn]

A white arched bridge spans the canal, with freight boats passing by, casting reflections on the water. The banks still retain the character of an old industrial town, evoking its history of salt shipping.