Things To Do
in Qiqihar
Qiqihar is a northern Chinese city in Heilongjiang province, situated along the Nen River. It blends industrial heritage with vast wetlands and riverine scenery. The city is known for the Zhalong National Nature Reserve, a haven for red-crowned cranes.
With hearty Northeastern cuisine and a laid-back pace, it's a gateway to both urban exploration and natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Qiqihar Historic Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of this vibrant city. Admire the ancient artifacts and learn about the cultural heritage of the region. Enjoy a leisurely stroll at the nearby People's Park, surrounded by lush greenery and local flora.
After lunch at a local restaurant, head to the famous Zhalong Nature Reserve, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse bird species. Take a guided tour to observe the rare red-crowned cranes in their natural habitat. Capture beautiful photographs and immerse yourself in the serenity of nature.
Conclude your day by exploring the local food scene at the bustling night market. Sample traditional dishes like dumplings and grilled skewers while mingling with friendly locals. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two.
Begin your morning at the bustling Qiqihar Food Market, where vibrant colors and enticing aromas greet you. Engage with local vendors as you sample fresh produce and traditional snacks. This experience offers a true taste of local life and the chance to learn about regional culinary practices.
After an authentic lunch at a nearby eatery, visit the nearby Qiqihar Silk Market, known for its exquisite silk products. Take your time browsing through beautifully crafted garments and home decor items while practicing your bargaining skills. Interact with artisans and learn about the silk-making process.
As night falls, visit the Qiqihar City Cultural Plaza, where you can enjoy live performances and local entertainment. The vibrant atmosphere is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration. Grab some dinner at a nearby restaurant, trying dishes unique to the Heilongjiang province.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket | $0.5-1 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-70 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich nature nearby (Zhalong, Nen River)
- Affordable prices and good value for money
- Friendly locals and easy logistics
- Language barrier in more rural areas
- Limited nightlife and Western-style dining options
- Harsh winters requiring preparation
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪里？" - Where is the restroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "你会说英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Qiqihar
Visit one of these nice places.
A tranquil shot along the water with morning light reflecting off the river.
Water, arches, and landscaped lawns ideal for reflections and candid shots.
Expansive wetlands, reed beds, and chances to photograph red-crowned cranes.
Urban views and cultural exhibits; good for establishing city shots.
Food in Qiqihar
Qiqihar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy sweet-and-sour pork, a Northeastern staple widely found in Qiqihar.
Must-Try!
Hearty mixed stew with meat and root vegetables.
Pork with pickled cabbage slow-cooked to tender perfection.
Three-ingredient stir-fry featuring potatoes, eggplant, and green peppers.
Fish braised in savory soy-based sauce, a common riverine dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market area with stalls offering dumplings, smoked meats, pickles, and local snacks.
Evening stalls by the river with skewers, fried bread, and sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite forms of address and a light handshake; wait for elders to begin eating.
Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice; don't point with chopsticks; mirror hosts' lead when sharing dishes.
Speak in a respectful tone in public; avoid loud arguing; respect quiet hours in parks.
Safety
Tipping in Qiqihar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not common in most casual dining; generous tips are usually not expected, but may be appreciated at higher-end hotels or guided tours.
Cash and mobile payments are dominant; WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted; some small shops may accept cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summers are warm and humid, with occasional thunderstorms; mosquitoes can be an issue; wear sunscreen and light breathable clothing.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for outdoor walks and photography.
Very cold and dry; typical temperatures below freezing; good for snow photography and winter sports.
Cool and windy with rapid weather changes; layers recommended.
Qiqihar at Night
Hiking in Qiqihar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic walking and light hiking along the Nen River with forest edges.
Boardwalks through reeds and marshes offering birdwatching and photography.
Airports
How to reach Qiqihar by plane.
Regional airport serving Qiqihar with connections to Beijing, Shanghai, and Harbin; taxi or airport bus to the city center.
Regional hub offering more international and domestic connections; reachable by train or longer drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The vast majority of the population in the area.
Small communities with cultural influences seen in local festivals and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in northern Heilongjiang, especially during winter.
Common recreational sport across communities.
Widely played in schools and public courts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Qiqihar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes rely on meat, pork, and broth; ask for vegetable dishes, tofu, or simple egg dishes, and request no meat-based stock.