Three distinctive places to stay in Chongchuan district, Nantong, offer travelers a chance to experience the city through its gardens, nature and historic architecture.

The Sheyuan Garden Landscape Homestay sits in the heart of Tangzha Ancient Town. Its white walls, dark tiles, plants and ponds create changing views. Rooms are decorated with Nantong blue calico. The property is close to old stone-paved streets, the Tongyang Canal and century-old industrial heritage sites.

A courtyard at the Sheyuan Garden Landscape Homestay. [Photo/WeChat account: chongchuanonline]

The Oulai Beehive Garden Homestay offers 11 rooms with distinct designs, each featuring views of beehives and serving honey coffee. In the courtyard, guests can harvest fresh honey, try their hand at woodworking and even adopt a beehive. Honey lip balm, hand cream and soap are also available for purchase.

A boy tries his hand at woodworking at the Oulai Beehive Garden Homestay. [Photo/WeChat account: chongchuanonline]

The third property is a boutique hotel on Nanguandimiao Lane, set in a residential complex dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties (1368-1911). Although it has not officially opened yet, it offers preview tours for visitors. The hotel preserves the historic elements of the building while adding contemporary hospitality design.