Things To Do
in Quzhou

Spectacular ancient man-made rock chambers with dramatic light and shadow — one of the region’s most photogenic and mysterious sites. Best visited in the morning for softer light and fewer visitors.

A UNESCO Global Geopark area with striking rock formations and panoramic viewpoints ideal for landscape photography and sunrise/sunset shots.

Historic streets, temples and city-architecture that capture daily life; early morning and evening are best for atmospheric street scenes.

Low-light reflections, fishing boats and local markets along the rivers provide candid cultural photography opportunities.

Local markets are busiest in the morning with stalls selling breakfast snacks, teas, fresh produce and local pickles — try steamed buns, soybean milk and fried dough.

Evening markets near pedestrian streets and busy intersections serve grilled skewers, small fried dishes and sweet snacks — a good place to taste local specialties affordably.

A simple 你好 (nǐ hǎo) is fine. Politeness, modesty and saving face are important — avoid loud arguments in public and be respectful toward elders.

Accept invitations and shared dishes politely; using communal chopsticks or the opposite ends of chopsticks to take food is appreciated. Try a bite of dishes offered by hosts.

When visiting temples or historic sites, dress modestly, speak quietly and follow any posted rules — do not touch artifacts or climb where prohibited.

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or intimate settings, and avoid taking photos in restricted areas.

Tipping is not a strong custom in smaller Chinese cities like Quzhou. In hotels or upscale restaurants a small tip is appreciated but not expected. For guided tours or particularly helpful service, a modest tip is acceptable. Taxi drivers generally do not expect tips; rounding up is common.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate everyday transactions in China, though many small vendors still accept cash (CNY). International cards (Visa/Mastercard) are accepted at larger hotels and major restaurants, but smaller shops prefer UnionPay or cash. If you plan to use mobile payments, set up apps beforehand or carry cash as backup.

Mild temperatures and blossoming vegetation make spring ideal for hiking and outdoor photography; expect occasional rain, so pack a light rain jacket.

Hot and humid, with the plum-rain (Meiyu) season in early summer bringing persistent rains and occasional typhoons later in the season; bring breathable clothing, sun protection and plan indoor options for wet days.

Cooler, drier and often the most pleasant time to visit — clear skies, comfortable hiking weather and beautiful foliage on higher slopes.

Chilly and damp rather than snowy; layering is important because indoor heating can be variable. Off-season means fewer tourists and lower prices.

Vegetarian options are available (vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes and rice/noodle dishes), but many dishes use meat- or fish-based stocks; ask for 素 (sù) and specify no meat or fish, and watch for hidden ingredients such as fish sauce.

More limited than vegetarian — request simple vegetable and tofu dishes and confirm no animal broth. Bringing a translation card explaining restrictions helps in smaller eateries.

Rice-based dishes are common, but soy sauce contains wheat. Ask for no soy sauce or bring a phrase card; dedicated gluten-free options are uncommon in local restaurants.

Carry allergy cards in Chinese for nuts, shellfish, or other allergens, and communicate restrictions clearly — small places may not be familiar with cross-contamination practices.