Things To Do
in Kangning

Simple bowls served in a clear broth or stir-fried with seasonal vegetables and pork — widely available at neighborhood shops and market stalls.

Must-Try!

Freshly caught fish steamed with ginger, scallions and light soy — best at family-run restaurants near the river.

Comforting braised pork served with rice and tangy local pickles; a common household specialty you can try at small eateries.

Street vendors sell variegated pancakes (jianbing-like) for breakfast and hand-made dumplings at lunchtime — cheap and delicious.

A bustling market where vendors sell fresh produce, live seafood, snacks and tea; try steamed buns, savory pancakes and grilled skewers here.

Small clustered stalls near the river that open in the evening offering skewers, fried snacks and cold drinks — a great place for casual tasting.

A quiet nod or handshake is standard; address elders first and show polite deference in family- or community- centered situations.

Remove shoes when entering a private home if hosts indicate so; some small guesthouses may also request this.

Queueing is expected at official counters, but bargaining is normal in markets — keep it friendly and light-hearted.

Avoid heated political topics and respect local views; photography of military, government buildings or restricted areas should be avoided.

Tipping is not customary in most small-town Chinese establishments; small service charges may be included for tours or hotels, and rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated but not expected.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate; cash (CNY) is still widely used in markets and small shops. International card acceptance is limited outside larger hotels and restaurants, so carry cash or set up a mobile payment option if you can.

Mild temperatures and blossoming fields make spring pleasant for walking and photography; occasional rain is possible, so pack a light rain jacket.

Warm to hot with higher humidity and afternoon thunderstorms in some years; mornings are best for outdoor activities to avoid heat and rain.

Crisp, clear weather and comfortable temperatures — often the most pleasant season for hiking, sightseeing and local harvest festivals.

Cool to cold, with the possibility of frost or light snow in some years; lower tourist volume and cozy indoor meals but bring warm layers and a good coat.

A regional airport serving domestic flights to provincial capitals; usually the most convenient air gateway, connected to the town by bus or taxi.

Major airport with international and extensive domestic connections; best option if traveling internationally or seeking direct flights to other countries.

Vegetarian options are generally available (stir-fried vegetables, tofu dishes, noodle soups) but many broths and sauces may use meat or fish stock; ask with the phrase “我吃素” (wǒ chī sù) and specify no meat or fish stock.

More challenging — bring a card in Chinese explaining no animal products and watch for hidden ingredients like oyster sauce, egg and lard; stick to vegetable dishes and tofu with clear instructions.

Halal-certified restaurants may be limited in small towns; look for Muslim-run eateries or choose vegetable- and seafood-based dishes and ask about preparation methods.

Carry translations of your allergies in Chinese and be cautious with sauces — peanuts and sesame can be common; pharmacies in town sell antihistamines if needed.