Things To Do
in Haomen
Haomen sits on the northeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau, where desert-steppe landscapes meet distant mountains. The town blends Han, Hui, and Tibetan cultures, visible in its markets, mosques, and noodle shops. Modern development sits alongside traditional yurts and farmsteads, giving the streets a mixed old-and-new vibe.
The climate is high-desert with crisp winters, sunny summers, and wide diurnal temperature swings that shape daily life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the iconic Haomen Ancient Town, where traditional architecture and cobblestone streets transport you back in time. Wander through the bustling markets, sampling local snacks like sweet rice balls and crispy dumplings. Capture breathtaking photos of the ancient pagodas and serene canals as the morning light bathes the town in warmth.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour to the Haomen Museum to delve deeper into the rich history of the region. Engage with interactive exhibits that reveal the stories of ancient dynasties and the evolution of local culture. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the canals, absorbing the scenic views and tranquil atmosphere.
As evening falls, dine at a local restaurant where you can savor Haomen's famous seafood dishes, prepared with fresh ingredients from the nearby waters. After your meal, take a stroll along the water's edge, soaking in the soft glow of lanterns illuminating the pathways. Conclude your day by enjoying a traditional tea ceremony at a quaint teahouse, where you can unwind and reflect on your experiences.
Begin your day with a visit to a nearby village, where you can witness traditional crafts being made, such as silk weaving and pottery. Engage with local artisans, learning about their techniques and the cultural significance of their crafts. The morning is also an excellent time to explore the lush countryside, dotted with rice paddies and picturesque landscapes.
In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class led by local chefs, where you will learn to prepare authentic Haomen dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy a communal lunch with your cooking classmates, sharing stories and laughter as you savor the fruits of your labor. After lunch, take part in a traditional dance or music session to immerse yourself in the local culture.
As the sun sets, gather around a bonfire in the village for an evening of storytelling and folklore shared by the villagers. Listen to tales of ancient heroes and legends, allowing their rich oral history to come to life. Wind down your day by enjoying a starlit sky, away from city lights, while sipping on herbal tea infused with local herbs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $7-12 |
| 🛍Local souvenirs | $5-25 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural blend of Han, Hui, and Tibetan influences
- Stunning high-desert landscapes and stargazing opportunities
- Affordable prices and warm, hospitable locals
- Limited English in rural areas
- Limited nightlife and Western-style entertainment
- Altitude and weather extremes can be challenging
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "对不起" - Sorry
- "你会说英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
- "多少钱？" - How much?
- "厕所在哪里？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "请帮忙" - Please help
- "可以给我推荐吗？" - Can you recommend?
Places to Visit in Haomen
Visit one of these nice places.
Open views across the plateau with soft morning light and long shadows.
Ancient lanes and traditional facades with local life in motion.
Golden dunes and sparse vegetation provide dramatic silhouettes at golden hour.
Vivid colors and activity after dusk offering candid street photography.
Food in Haomen
Haomen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Char-grilled lamb skewers seasoned with cumin and chili, a street-food staple.
Must-Try!
A bubbling pot of mutton, vegetables, and barley noodles, perfect for sharing.
Hearty noodle soup with tender lamb and aromatic herbs.
Creamy barley-based porridge topped with yogurt or cheese.
Traditional salted tea made with yak butter, common in high-altitude towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Stalls offering grilled meats, fried dough, yogurt, and dried fruits; ideal for a post-sunset bite.
A strip of stalls selling dumplings, flatbreads, and local herbal teas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or handshake with brief eye contact; address elders with respect and use surnames.
Wait for elders to start, use chopsticks properly, and avoid pointing with chopsticks or resting elbows on table.
Dress modestly, remove hats when indoors, and ask before photographing people or places of worship.
Show deference in respectful conversation and avoid loud public displays.
Safety
Tipping in Haomen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most parts of China; in higher-end tourist services, a small gratuity is appreciated but not expected.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments WeChat Pay and Alipay are ubiquitous; card acceptance varies, carry local currency for rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry heat with warm days and cool nights; strong sun, carry sunscreen and water; short afternoon storms possible.
Clear skies, comfortable temperatures, harvest scenery; light winds and occasional cold nights.
Very cold with possible snow and strong winds; dress in layers and plan indoor activities.
Chilly mornings turning mild; windy days and dust storms possible; bring a scarf and sunglasses.
Haomen at Night
Hiking in Haomen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic route along the plateau edge with panoramic views and varying difficulty.
A gentle circuit through sandy washes and small oasis pockets.
A half-day ascent to a nearby peak offering alpine scenery.
Airports
How to reach Haomen by plane.
Main regional airport serving Haomen; frequent connections to major Chinese cities and international destinations.
Larger hub in nearby Gansu province; useful for international connections and longer journeys.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in town, with a mix of traditional and modern influences.
Active in the area with distinctive cuisine, mosques, and markets.
Cultural presence through monasteries, crafts, and nomadic influences.
Seasonal residents who move with grazing patterns in surrounding steppe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common in schools and local leagues; casual matches in public fields.
Popular city sport with community courts and pickup games.
Traditional activity on the steppe, often offered by rural guesthouses.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haomen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetables, legumes, and dairy are common; ask for meat-free broth and noodle dishes.