Things To Do
in Jieshou

Jieshou is a county-level city in northern Anhui Province, nestled among fertile plains that feed the region’s farms. The city blends traditional markets, historic streets, and evolving modern amenities, giving visitors a relaxed, approachable vibe. Local cuisine reflects Hui influences, with plenty of fresh river fish, braises, and seasonal vegetables on offer.

Visitors can base themselves here to explore rural countryside, nearby temples, and small-town culture at a comfortable pace.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Jieshou Ancient City, where you can stroll through the narrow alleyways lined with traditional architecture that dates back centuries. The morning sunlight casts a beautiful glow on the old stone walls, creating perfect opportunities for photography. Don't miss the local vendors selling breakfast snacks, like steamed buns and fried dough sticks, to fuel your exploration.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a nearby restaurant, spend your afternoon at the Jieshou Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region. The exhibitions are engaging and informative, showcasing artifacts from various dynasties. Finish your visit with a leisurely walk around the adjacent park, where locals often gather for tai chi and dance.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the vibrant night market where you can sample an array of street foods, from spicy skewers to sweet desserts. The atmosphere is lively, with vendors calling out and music playing, making it a perfect spot to immerse yourself in the local culture. End your evening by enjoying a cup of herbal tea at a nearby teahouse, reflecting on your day.

day 2
Nature and Scenic Hiking
morning
:

Begin your day early with a hike at the nearby Wutong Mountain, where fresh air and stunning views await. The trail is surrounded by lush greenery, and you can spot various bird species as you ascend. Reach the summit by mid-morning to enjoy a panoramic view of Jieshou and its picturesque surroundings.

afternoon
:

After descending, reward yourself with a hearty lunch at a mountain-side restaurant, featuring local specialties like bamboo rice and wild mushrooms. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby waterfalls, where you can relax by the sparkling waters and enjoy a picnic. The serene environment is perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Jieshou and visit a local hot spring to soothe your muscles after a day of hiking. The hot springs provide a calming atmosphere, and you can enjoy various pools with different temperatures. Conclude your day with a traditional Chinese massage to rejuvenate your body and spirit.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant$5-8
🍽️Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant$15-25
Coffee or tea$1-3
🚕One-way local transport$1-3
🛍️Simple souvenirs$3-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic local culture and cuisine at affordable prices
  • Compact, walkable city center with easy day trips to rural areas
  • Friendly locals and relaxed pace of travel
  • Wide availability of traditional markets and teahouses
  • Limited international nightlife and upscale dining options
  • Language barrier for non-MMandarin speakers in some venues
  • Fewer direct flight connections compared to larger cities
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问洗手间在哪儿?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?
  • "你会说英语吗?" - Do you speak English?
  • "可以给我拍照吗?" - Can you take a photo for me?
  • "好吃" - Delicious
  • "我不懂" - I don’t understand
  • "" - Water
  • "救命" - Help
  • "可以再给我指路吗?" - Can you show me the way again?

Places to Visit in Jieshou

Visit one of these nice places.

Jieshou City Gate Ruins

Remnants of the old city walls and gate, best captured at dawn when the light is soft and silhouettes are clear.

Lakeside Park at Sunset

Reflection-heavy waters, willows, and a palette of warm colors as the sun dips over the water.

Old Town Lantern Street

Narrow lanes lined with traditional lanterns and storefronts—great for moody street photography.

Rural Farmland Lanes

Patchwork fields and light-filtered corridors of trees—ideal for wide landscapes and portraiture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Jieshou

Jieshou’s cuisine reflects Anhui’s Hui influence, with an emphasis on fresh ingredients from farms and rivers, slow braises, and comforting, home-style flavors.

Jieshou Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Hui-style Braised Pork with Chestnuts

Slow-braised pork in a soy-based glaze with chestnuts, a comforting staple found in many local eateries.

Must-Try!

Steamed River Fish with Ginger and Scallions

Fresh fish steamed to perfection with ginger and scallions, finished with a light soy glaze.

Stir-Fried Seasonal Greens with Tofu

Wok-tossed greens with tofu and garlic, a simple, satisfying vegetarian option.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Jieshou Old Market

Historic market stalls offering fresh produce, hand-pulled noodles, dumplings, fried snacks, and regional treats.

North Gate Street Food Lane

A bustling lane near the city gate where vendors serve fried dough twists, savory pancakes, and sweet bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Jieshou has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, winters are cool to cold, and spring and autumn are mild and comfortable. Rainfall is common in the warmer months, with a drier spell in late autumn and winter.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect for Elders

A polite nod or light bow is common; address elders with respectful titles and use polite language in conversation.

Quiet Observance in Public Spaces

Maintain a calm demeanor in temples, museums, and markets; avoid loud talking or gestures in sacred spaces.

Queuing and Patience

Stand in lines and wait your turn at markets, bus stops, and ticket counters.

Gift Etiquette

If visiting a local home, bring a small gift and present it with both hands; accept offerings politely.

Safety Guide

Safety

Typical travel safety considerations apply: be mindful of petty theft in crowded markets, keep valuables secure, and use licensed transportation. Road conditions can vary in rural areas, and weather can affect travel plans during the rainy season. In emergencies, contact local authorities or dial standard emergency numbers for China.

Tipping in Jieshou

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in most eateries or taxis; some places may add a service charge. If service is exceptional, a small tip or rounding up the bill is appreciated but not expected.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with regular showers. Stay hydrated, seek shade during peak sun, and carry lightweight rain protection.

Autumn

Pleasant and mildly cool with clear skies. Great for outdoor walks, photography, and market visits.

Winter

Cool to cold and occasionally frosty, especially at night. Layered clothing and a warm outer layer are essential.

Spring

Mild temperatures with possible showers. Bring a light rain jacket and enjoy flowering fields and markets.

Nightlife Guide

Jieshou at Night

Jieshou offers a low-key nightlife scene dominated by tea houses, riverside strolls, and small night markets. There are a few family-friendly cafes and occasional cultural performances at local venues. For nightlife enthusiasts, expect mellow evenings rather than high-energy bars or clubs.

Hiking in Jieshou

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Houhe Ridge Trail

Gentle to moderate ascent with countryside views and several viewpoints along the ridge.

Liangshan Ecotourism Forest Trails

Shaded forest paths suitable for day hikes and wildlife spotting.

Xianren Gorge Viewpoint Trail

Scenic gorge area with a moderate loop and photo opportunities at the overlook.

Airports

How to reach Jieshou by plane.

Hefei Xinqiao International Airport (HFE)

Main international airport in Anhui; access by highway with connections to major Chinese cities and some international destinations.

Xuzhou Guanyin International Airport (XUZ)

Secondary regional hub with domestic connections; convenient for travelers entering from northern Anhui and neighboring areas.

Nanjing Lukou International Airport (NKG)

Larger international airport a few hours away by road/rail; offers national and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

The city center is compact and walkable, with pedestrian-friendly streets and markets. Some lanes in the old town are narrow and uneven, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Public transportation and short taxi rides are readily available for longer hops.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

Predominant ethnicity with a mix of rural and urban residents; aging population in some districts.

Hui and other minorities

Smaller communities present in the region, contributing to culinary and cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Popular in schools and community centers; local courts are common in towns and parks.

Table Tennis

Widely played in community centers and clubs; often enjoyed in the evenings.

Badminton

Another common indoor sport with local clubs and school leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is moderate in the city center with regular bus services and taxis. Rural roads can be narrower and less well-lit; plan extra time for travel between towns. For international visitors, ridesharing apps are less ubiquitous than in bigger cities, so having a basic Mandarin phrase or a map helps.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Jieshou.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

In Jieshou, vegetarian options are available at many eateries. Look for dishes labeled vegetarian or request no meat stock; options include tofu, mushrooms, and fresh vegetables. When in doubt, ask for vegetable plates with steamed rice and avoid dishes prepared with meat stock.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic clinics and hospitals serve daily needs; for more advanced care or emergencies, go to larger nearby cities like Huainan or Hefei. Travel insurance is advisable when visiting rural areas, and carry any necessary medications with you.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide