Things To Do
in Fusui
Fusui (扶绥) is a county in Chongzuo, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region near the border with Vietnam, known for its rural karst scenery, rivers and rich Zhuang ethnic culture. The area combines agricultural lowlands, sugarcane fields and pockets of limestone hills that make for photogenic landscapes and quiet village life. Fusui is a good base for exploring nearby nature reserves and border attractions while experiencing local markets and Zhuang festivals.
Compared with larger Guangxi cities it is low-key, affordable and offers easy day trips to larger scenic sites in Chongzuo and neighbouring counties.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the ancient streets of Fusui, where the architecture reflects the rich history of the region. Wander through traditional shops selling local crafts and snacks, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to try a steaming bowl of rice noodles for breakfast at a local eatery.
After lunch, explore the Fusui Memorial Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll among lush greenery and learn about the area's heritage through informational displays. Take a moment to relax by the pond, watching the local residents engage in tai chi and other activities. As the afternoon sun begins to set, capture stunning photographs of the park’s natural beauty.
In the evening, dine at a local restaurant known for its fusion of traditional Guangxi flavors with modern culinary techniques. Experience the vibrant nightlife as you stroll through the bustling streets, filled with street vendors and performers. Conclude your day by sampling local delicacies like grilled fish skewers and sweet glutinous rice balls.
Begin your morning at the bustling Fusui Morning Market, where you can interact with local vendors selling fresh produce, spices, and handmade goods. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas create a sensory overload, making it an unforgettable experience. Try your hand at bargaining for unique souvenirs or sample fresh fruits straight from the vendors.
After exploring the market, head to a nearby tea house for a traditional tea ceremony, where you can learn about the cultural significance of tea in Chinese society. Enjoy a selection of locally sourced teas while engaging in conversation with the tea master about their art. This peaceful experience will allow you to unwind and reflect on your morning adventures.
As the sun sets, enjoy a cultural performance featuring traditional Guangxi music and dance at a local theater. The rhythmic beats and colorful costumes will transport you into the heart of local traditions. After the performance, savor a hearty dinner at a nearby restaurant, trying dishes such as sour fish soup and bamboo rice.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee / Tea from cafe or stall | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $2-5 |
| 🚌Local bus / minibus ride | $0.50-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel (per night) | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Guangxi and Zhuang culture with vibrant local markets
- Affordable prices and quiet, uncrowded landscapes
- Good base for nearby natural attractions such as Nonggang Reserve and day trips to Detian Waterfall
- Pleasant photography opportunities of karst scenery, rivers and ethnic villages
- Limited English signage and few services for non-Chinese speakers
- Public transport within the county can be infrequent; a car or driver is helpful
- Fewer modern amenities and nightlife compared with larger cities
- Rainy season can limit outdoor activities and make some rural roads muddy
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "多少钱？ (Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much?
- "厕所在哪里？ (Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?)" - Where is the toilet?
- "我不吃肉 (Wǒ bù chī ròu)" - I don't eat meat
- "可以拍照吗？ (Kěyǐ pāizhào ma?)" - Can I take a photo?
- "请 (Qǐng)" - Please
- "对不起 (Duìbuqǐ)" - Sorry / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Fusui
Visit one of these nice places.
Karst forests, limestone outcrops and rich bird life provide excellent nature photography opportunities at sunrise and during misty mornings.
Vibrant scenes of daily life, colorful produce, traditional clothing and street food — great for candid and documentary-style shots.
Sunrise and sunset over rice paddies, sugarcane fields and meandering waterways offer classic rural Guangxi landscapes.
Traditional Zhuang houses, folk crafts and festival performances (if visiting during events) make compelling cultural photos — always ask permission before close portraits.
Small limestone hills around Fusui create dramatic compositions, especially with low light and morning mist.
Food in Fusui
Fusui Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sticky rice cooked in a split bamboo tube with pork or mushrooms; available at village stalls and local festivals and a characteristic Zhuang specialty.
Must-Try!
Fresh river fish prepared with fermented/ pickled vegetables and aromatics; commonly served in homes and small eateries near rivers.
A comforting bowl of rice noodles in a savory broth with minced pork or vegetables — widely available at breakfast stalls and markets.
Fusui grows sugarcane locally; try fresh-pressed cane juice, candied cane and cane-based sweets at markets and roadside stalls.
Whole river fish grilled or braised with local herbs and chilis; best at riverside family restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The busiest market for fresh produce, rice noodles, snacks and street stalls selling breakfast items, sugarcane juice and local cakes — great for photography and tasting cheap local food.
Evening stalls offering skewers, fried snacks, dumplings and desserts; a social hub for locals with a lively, informal atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite 'Nǐ hǎo' (你好) and a slight nod or handshake are common. Show respect to elders and community hosts when visiting villages.
Always ask before photographing people, especially in ethnic villages or during ritual events. Small gifts or modest purchases are appreciated when entering private homes.
Meals are typically shared family-style from common dishes; try a little of each and finish what you take. Offer and accept food politely; it’s courteous to use both hands when giving or receiving a cup or gift.
Fusui is near the Vietnam border — do not cross border areas except at official checkpoints and follow local laws and signage.
Safety
Tipping in Fusui
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is uncommon in most local restaurants and shops; small tips are occasionally given to helpful guides or drivers but are not obligatory. In tourist-oriented services (hotels, private guides) a modest tip is appreciated.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely used in towns; cash (RMB) remains important in rural markets and small stalls. Credit cards are accepted at some hotels and larger restaurants, but bring cash for markets, taxis and remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March–May brings warming temperatures and blossoming fields; good weather for hiking but expect occasional rains later in the season.
June–August is hot, humid and the wet season with frequent afternoon downpours and potential for heavy rain; carry rain gear and mosquito repellent, and plan outdoor activities for mornings.
September–November offers pleasant, drier weather and cooler evenings — often the best time for outdoor exploration and photography.
December–February is mild compared with northern China but can be cool and damp; a light jacket is usually sufficient, and tourist crowds are low.
Fusui at Night
Hiking in Fusui
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Marked nature trails through karst forest and limestone scenery; excellent for birdwatching and experiencing subtropical biodiversity. Some trails can be remote — bring water and insect repellent.
Short hikes up low limestone hills near villages offer panoramic views of paddies and waterways; ideal for sunrise or sunset shoots.
Longer excursions to famous waterfalls and scenic karst landscapes in neighboring counties; expect tourist facilities and well-maintained paths at major sites.
Airports
How to reach Fusui by plane.
The largest nearby airport serving international and domestic flights; approximately 2–3 hours drive from Fusui depending on traffic. Good gateway for onward travel to Fusui by bus or private transfer.
Smaller regional airport serving Baise and parts of western Guangxi — driving time to Fusui is roughly 2–3 hours depending on route; limited domestic connections.
Further away (around 3–4 hours by car), Guilin airport provides many tourist-oriented flights and can be used as an alternate entry point if combining with Guilin or Yangshuo visits.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Zhuang ethnic minority is the largest group in Fusui and Guangxi overall; Zhuang culture, language and festivals are an important part of local life.
Han residents live and work throughout the county, contributing to a blend of Han and minority cultural practices.
Smaller populations of Yao, Miao and other ethnic groups may be present in surrounding areas, each with their own cultural traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Like much of China, football is popular among youth and in school sports programs.
Common recreational sports, played in community centres, schools and parks.
Local river communities often hold boat-related events, and dragon boat racing can be popular around the Duanwu (Dragon Boat) Festival.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fusui.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited outside larger towns — rice noodles, vegetable stir-fries and tofu dishes are common. Ask for 'bú yào ròu' (不要肉 — no meat) and be aware many broths are meat-based; a clarifying phrase is 'bù yòng yú gāng' (不要鱼汤) to avoid fish broth.
Vegan meals require care because many dishes use fish sauce, lard or meat broths. Stick to plain rice, vegetable stir-fries and steamed buns, and use Mandarin phrases to explain restrictions.
Rice-based staples make it easier for gluten-free diners, but watch soy sauce and processed snacks that may contain wheat.
Carry clear Chinese cards that list your allergens; small restaurants may not understand complex allergies. Pack medications for allergic reactions.