Things To Do
in Lishui

A regional specialty—tender smoked chicken lightly seasoned; often available at local eateries in Longquan and Lishui night markets.

Must-Try!

Seasonal bamboo shoots prepared stir-fried or braised with pork or mushrooms; best in spring when shoots are fresh and available at countryside restaurants.

A mountain-style hotpot using locally foraged mushrooms and greens—common in cooler months and in rural guesthouses.

Traditional She-minority snacks and glutinous rice preparations, often encountered in Jingning villages and local festivals.

Typical wet market selling fresh vegetables, river fish, tofu and prepared breakfast items—great for sampling local porridge, steamed buns and fried dough.

Street vendors near Longquan’s old quarter sell smoked chicken, savory pancakes and small snacks—perfect for tasting regional specialties while exploring workshops.

A nod or slight bow and a polite greeting is appropriate. Respect elders and avoid loud behavior in rural villages or temple areas.

Remove shoes when entering private homes; hosts will often provide slippers.

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in minority villages and during ceremonies.

Small gifts are appreciated in homestays; present and receive items with both hands as a sign of respect.

Tipping is not customary in most places in China, including Lishui; small tips to helpful guides or porters are appreciated but not expected.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate for everyday purchases; cash (RMB) remains useful in rural areas. Foreign bank cards are accepted at larger hotels and some ATMs—carry some cash for markets and remote spots.

Mild temperatures, flowering plants and fresh green terraces—ideal for hiking and photography. Expect intermittent rain; pack a light waterproof jacket.

Hot and humid with frequent afternoon rain and thunderstorms; great time for mountain waterfalls and lush landscapes but be prepared for heat and bugs.

Clearer skies, comfortable temperatures and excellent visibility—one of the best times to visit for hiking and terraces after harvest.

Cool to cold and damp; low tourist crowds and atmospheric mist in forests. Some higher trails may be chilly—bring warm layers and waterproof shoes.

Trails through ancient forests and around high ridges—known for biodiversity, primeval trees and misty scenic viewpoints.

Paths winding through rice terraces and small farming villages with excellent photographic vantage points at sunrise and sunset.

Hiking routes around Longquan’s hills offering views over old towns, tea plantations and forested valleys.

Short cultural hikes linking She minority villages, local temples and traditional architecture—good for combining nature and culture.

The majority ethnic group in Lishui, forming the bulk of the urban and rural population.

A significant ethnic minority in Jingning and surrounding counties with distinct customs, traditional dress and festivals; cultural visits are possible in She villages.

Large rural population engaged in agriculture, tea cultivation, forestry and traditional crafts.

Like much of China, many younger residents travel to larger cities for work, influencing local demographics and leaving older age groups more present in some rural areas.

Very popular among young people—pickup games are common in parks and school courts.

Widely played indoor sports with many local clubs and community courts.

A traditional sport in Zhejiang with local teams and seasonal festival races on rivers and lakes.

Local interest in traditional Chinese martial arts and swordsmanship connects with Longquan’s sword-making heritage.