Things To Do
in Heihe
Heihe is a border city in far northeastern China on the south bank of the Amur (Heilong) River, directly opposite the Russian city of Blagoveshchensk. It serves as a regional hub for cross-border trade and has a mix of Chinese northeastern (Dongbei) culture with Russian influences visible in architecture, cuisine, and commerce. The city is a practical base for riverfront walks, seasonal ice-and-snow activities, birdwatching in nearby wetlands, and exploring the forested Lesser Khingan foothills.
Heihe is compact and down-to-earth — less polished than big provincial capitals but rewarding for travelers who enjoy borderland character, local food, and outdoor experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Heihe Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region. The museum features various exhibits that showcase the local traditions and artifacts from different eras. After that, take a leisurely walk around the surrounding historic district, appreciating the unique architecture and bustling atmosphere.
For lunch, enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants that serve authentic Chinese cuisine, sampling dishes such as dumplings and hot pot. Post-lunch, visit the nearby Friendship Bridge, which connects China and Russia, offering a stunning view of the river. Take your time walking along the riverbank, soaking in the picturesque scenery and watching boats traverse the water.
As dusk falls, find a cozy spot at a riverside café to enjoy a cup of traditional Chinese tea. Engage with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences while the sun sets behind the bridge. To end the day, take a relaxing stroll along the river, taking in the shimmering reflections of the city lights.
Start your day by visiting the Heihe Market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and interact with local vendors. Explore stalls filled with fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts, soaking in the sights and sounds of daily life. Try some street food, such as steamed buns or skewers, for a delicious breakfast.
After browsing the market, head to a nearby park for a picnic lunch with items you’ve purchased. Spend time people-watching or join in on a local game of mahjong, which is popular among residents. This afternoon, take a guided tour of the traditional crafts studios nearby, learning about local artisans and their techniques.
For dinner, choose a restaurant known for its regional specialties, such as fish dishes from the Amur River. After your meal, attend a cultural performance, featuring traditional music and dance, to enrich your understanding of local heritage. Wrap up the evening by visiting a night market, enjoying the lively atmosphere and picking up unique souvenirs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-8 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-5 |
| 🚕Local taxi short ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-80 |
| 🚌Local bus fare | $0.20-0.60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique borderland atmosphere with Russian influences
- Good base for birdwatching and outdoor activities in nearby wilderness
- Affordable food and accommodation
- Compact city center that's easy to explore on foot
- Harsh winters and limited services in extreme cold
- Fewer international amenities and English speakers than larger Chinese cities
- Seasonal access to certain activities (boat trips, cross-border options) may be limited
- Long travel times to major transport hubs for international connections
- "你好 (Nǐ hǎo)" - Hello
- "谢谢 (Xièxiè)" - Thank you
- "多少钱？(Duōshǎo qián?)" - How much is this?
- "请问洗手间在哪里？(Qǐngwèn xǐshǒujiān zài nǎlǐ?)" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
- "我只吃素。(Wǒ zhǐ chī sù.)" - I am vegetarian.
- "去火车站怎么走？(Qù huǒchēzhàn zěnme zǒu?)" - How do I get to the train station?
Places to Visit in Heihe
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of the river and the Russian skyline across the water; excellent at sunrise and sunset for reflections and border-contrast shots.
Historic fortifications and riverside architecture that tell Heihe’s strategic past; good for architectural and cultural photos.
Migrant bird populations and marsh scenery in spring and autumn offer wildlife photography opportunities.
Street-level scenes with cross-border cultural elements — colorful storefronts, signage, and food stalls.
In deep winter the river and parks transform with snow sculptures, ice roads and frosted trees — a dramatic seasonal subject.
Food in Heihe
Heihe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshwater fish prepared steamed, braised, or in a spicy-sour broth; best at riverside restaurants and specialty seafood houses.
Must-Try!
A northeastern take on sweet-and-sour pork with a thicker batter and richer sauce; widely available in local eateries.
Hearty dumplings filled with pork, cabbage, or local game — ubiquitous in breakfast spots and markets.
Savory and sweet baked goods found in bakeries and market stalls, reflecting cross-border culinary exchange.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A busy covered market selling fresh produce, river fish, preserved meats, and small hot-food stalls; excellent for sampling local snacks and buying ingredients.
Seasonal evening vendors near the promenade offering skewers, pancakes, fried dough, and other quick bites — great for casual tasting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show deference to older people — polite greetings and letting elders enter or sit first are appreciated.
Public displays of affection are uncommon in older generations; dress modestly in temples and formal settings.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in ethnic minority communities or private property.
Avoid politically sensitive topics about the border and international relations during casual conversation; crossings to Russia require proper documentation.
Safety
Tipping in Heihe
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in China and is rarely expected in Heihe; small tips may be appreciated in higher-end hotels or for exceptional service but are not required.
Mobile payment platforms (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate; cash (RMB) is still useful for markets, taxis and small stalls. International credit cards are accepted at some hotels and larger restaurants but are not universal — carry cash or ensure mobile payment is set up.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Melting ice and rising river levels; days warm gradually but can be windy. Bird migration makes spring good for birdwatching; bring layers and waterproof footwear for muddy trails.
Warm to hot temperatures with humidity; green landscapes and comfortable evenings ideal for river walks and boat trips. Mosquitoes can be active in wetlands — bring repellent.
Crisp, cool weather with clear skies and colorful foliage in nearby hills. Excellent season for hiking, photography and tasting seasonal produce.
Long, very cold winters with heavy snow and temperatures often well below freezing; ice festivals and winter sports are popular. Dress in insulated layers, and expect some transport disruptions in severe weather.
Heihe at Night
Hiking in Heihe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills with short to moderate trails, rivers and viewpoints — good for day hikes, birdwatching and seasonal foliage.
Flat, accessible nature walks through marshy habitats for birdwatching and easy hiking close to the city.
Gentle trails along the Amur River ideal for walking, photography and short outings — particularly scenic at sunrise and sunset.
Airports
How to reach Heihe by plane.
The nearest airport, serving domestic flights to regional hubs like Harbin and Beijing; convenient for direct access to the city.
Major regional airport with national and some international connections; about several hours’ drive from Heihe — used when flying internationally or for more frequent domestic connections.
Across the Amur River in Russia; used by travelers with Russian visas or for cross-border arrangements. Check visa and entry requirements before planning connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population in Heihe, engaged in commerce, agriculture and urban professions.
Smaller communities maintain cultural traditions and may be visible in local festivals and cuisine.
Cross-border commerce brings some Russian businesspeople and visitors, contributing to a multicultural border environment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cold winters make ice skating and informal ice hockey popular recreational activities.
River and lake fishing, including seasonal ice-fishing, are common local pastimes and tourist activities.
Community-level team sports like soccer and basketball are widely played in schools and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Heihe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but limited compared with major cities; order dishes centered on noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and tofu. Carry a card explaining 'I am vegetarian' in Chinese to show to cooks.
More challenging — many broths and sauces contain animal ingredients; seek simple vegetable stir-fries, cold dishes, and plain noodles; bring snacks if you have strict requirements.
Halal restaurants are not abundant; ask at Muslim-run restaurants or look for halal signage in larger eateries. Lamb dishes are common in the region and often suitable.
Wheat-based staples (dumplings, noodles) are common; rice-based options are limited. Communicate needs clearly and be cautious with sauces that may contain wheat.