Things To Do
in Lishui

Lishui, located in the Zhejiang province of China, is known for its picturesque landscapes, rich culture, and historical significance. Surrounded by lush mountains and rivers, it offers a serene escape from urban life. The city is famous for its traditional tea culture, particularly the production of Lishui tea, and boasts an array of ancient temples and cultural sites.

With its mild climate and beautiful scenery, Lishui is an ideal destination for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Lishui's Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Lishui Museum, where you can learn about the local history and culture. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Qiantang River.

afternoon
:

Head to the Xituan Ancient Street, known for its traditional architecture and local craft shops. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant and enjoy some of Lishui's famous dumplings.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a visit to the Lishui Night Market, where you can sample various street foods and shop for local handicrafts.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Embark on a hike at the nearby Yandang Mountain, famous for its stunning rock formations and waterfalls. Spend the morning exploring the trails.

afternoon
:

After hiking, have lunch at a local eatery, then visit the Lishui Tianzhushan Park, where you can enjoy lush greenery and scenic views.

evening
:

Finish your evening with a quiet dinner by the river, enjoying traditional Lishui dishes while watching the sunset.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$4
🚕Taxi Ride (within city)$2
🛍️Craft Souvenir$5
Coffee at a Café$3
🍵Tea at a Tea House$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Public transportation may not be as developed as in larger cities.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don’t understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Lishui

Visit one of these nice places.

Yandang Mountain

A stunning mountain range with dramatic cliffs and waterfalls, perfect for landscape photography.

Lishui River

The serene river provides breathtaking views, especially at sunset.

Xituan Ancient Street

This historic street features traditional architecture, offering charming photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lishui

Lishui's culinary scene is a delightful blend of flavors showcasing local ingredients and traditional techniques. Must-try local dishes include fresh river fish, bamboo shoots, and various dumplings. The city is also famous for its vibrant food markets and street food culture, which offer an authentic taste of local life.

Lishui Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lishui Dumplings

Delicious dumplings filled with local meats and vegetables, often served with a tangy dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Bamboo Shoots

Freshly picked bamboo shoots cooked in a variety of ways, known for their crunchy texture and unique flavor.

River Fish

Locally caught fish prepared with simple seasonings to enhance their natural flavors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Lishui Night Market

A bustling night market offering a variety of street foods, snacks, and local delicacies.

Xituan Ancient Street Market

A vibrant market where you can taste traditional snacks and shop for handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lishui has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild, rarely dropping below 0°C (32°F). Spring sees pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), and autumn is characterized by cool, crisp weather and beautiful fall foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respecting Elders

Always show respect to elders, addressing them politely.

Dining Etiquette

It is customary to wait for the host to start eating before you begin.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or cultural sites, dress modestly to show respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lishui is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places.

Tipping in Lishui

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common in Lishui; however, leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Many places accept WeChat Pay and Alipay, while cash is also widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a perfect time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Expect warm weather; ideal for river activities, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage create picturesque landscapes.

Winter

Winters can be chilly but offer a unique atmosphere; occasional snow adds charm to the region.

Nightlife Guide

Lishui at Night

Lishui's nightlife is relatively calm compared to larger cities, with cozy bars and tea houses offering a relaxed atmosphere. The Lishui Night Market is vibrant, providing an opportunity to enjoy local street food and shop for unique crafts. Occasionally, cultural performances and music festivals take place, providing entertainment for visitors.

Hiking in Lishui

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yandang Mountain Trail

Famous for its breathtaking views and unique rock formations, this trail offers various routes for different skill levels.

Lishui Scenic Area Trail

A moderately challenging trail that winds through lush forests and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Lishui by plane.

Lishui Airport

Located approximately 20 km from the city center, Lishui Airport offers limited domestic flights but is convenient for travelers coming from major cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lishui is quite walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available. However, some areas outside the center may require transportation to access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Lishui, contributing to the cultural and linguistic landscape.

Local Minorities

Including various minority groups that add to the cultural diversity of the region, often celebrated through festivals and local customs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played among the youth, with many local courts available.

Martial Arts

Traditional martial arts are practiced in many parks and schools, showcasing local culture.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Lishui is generally manageable, with less congestion compared to larger cities. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable. However, during peak hours, some routes may experience delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lishui.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly those featuring fresh vegetables and tofu.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional dumplings contain wheat, some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests with rice-based dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Lishui is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics providing services. Most facilities have basic medical care, but for specialized treatments, larger cities may be required. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance and carry necessary medications.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

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