Expat Natt: Discovering Xuzhou, Jiangsu: China's Underrated Food Heaven

2 Days in Xuzhou, Jiangsu: China's Best Kept Secret

For our first China Travel Vlog of 2025 we are in Xuzhou, Jiangsu. On a spontaneous trip, just a couple hours train ride from Shanghai, I had no idea what to expect from this bustling city in the heart of Jiangsu province. 

Having already travelled to Suzhou, Yangzhou, Danyang, Nanjing, and other cities in Jiangsu, China I was absolutely blown away by the food culture of Xuzhou and now have an all-time favourite food- can you guess what it is?

About Xuzhou:

Xuzhou (Chinese: 徐州), also known as Pengcheng (彭城) in ancient times, is a major city in northwestern Jiangsu province, China.

Xuzhou is one of the oldest cities in China with a civilization dating back more than 5,000 years and a city history of over 2,600 years . It is located in the northwest of Jiangsu Province and serves as a crucial transportation hub since ancient times, often referred to as the “Gateway to Five Provinces” . The city covers an area of 11,765 square kilometers and has a population of about 9 million .

Xuzhou is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. It is known as the birthplace of Han culture, being the hometown of Liu Bang, the first emperor of the Han Dynasty, and the former capital of Xiang Yu, the Overlord of Western Chu . The city is home to numerous cultural relics and historical sites, including the “Three Wonders of the Han Dynasty”: Han Tombs, Han Stone Relief Carvings, and Han Clay Figurines of Terracotta Warriors and Horses . These sites attract visitors from around the world and are representative of Chinese Han culture .

Xuzhou has been ranked among the happiest cities in China .

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, Xuzhou is also known for its natural beauty, with attractions like Yunlong Lake, Yunlong Mountain, Pengzu Garden, Hubu Mountain, and Pan’an Lake . The city boasts a thriving ceramic industry and a diverse cuisine, including Huaiyang cuisine, famous for its delicate flavors and exquisite presentation .

Xuzhou is a city that blends the past and present, offering a unique experience for visitors who are interested in both history and modern development .