Things To Do
in Rongjiawan

Fresh-caught fish from Dongting Lake, typically steamed or braised with chili, pickled peppers and aromatic herbs; best found at riverside restaurants and specialty fish stalls.

Must-Try!

Pork and duck cured and smoked with local spices; served as cold slices or cooked into stir-fries—available at markets and traditional eateries.

Lotus root sliced and stir-fried, stewed, or served in soups and salads; seasonal and common in local markets and restaurants near Dongting Lake.

Quick wok-style dishes highlighting local greens and house-made pickles—perfect with white rice.

Early-morning market selling live freshwater fish, produce, snacks and ingredients; ideal for seeing daily life and sampling cheap, freshly cooked bites.

Evening stalls offering skewers, rice noodles, dumplings and sweets—try grilled skewers, fried noodles and sweet lotus seed desserts.

Show deference to older people—greet them politely and allow elders to be served first; modest verbal politeness is valued.

Dress modestly and speak quietly at temples; remove hats and avoid flash photography where signs prohibit it.

Meals are often communal—try a bit of each dish, offer thanks, and accept shared plates; it’s polite to refuse a small amount at first if offered food, then accept after a short polite exchange.

Bargaining is acceptable at markets but do so politely; fixed-price stores are not typically bargained with.

Tipping is not common in small towns—service staff do not expect tips, though rounding up for taxis or leaving small change in casual cafes is appreciated. In tourism-oriented boat trips or guide services, a modest tip is fine but not required.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and cash (RMB) are widely used; in small markets and with older vendors, cash is preferred. International credit cards may be accepted at larger hotels and restaurants but are uncommon in local shops.

Mild temperatures and blossoming vegetation make spring pleasant for walking and photography; occasional rain showers are common—bring a light rain jacket.

Hot, humid and sometimes sweltering with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; the lake supports abundant life but humidity can be intense—stay hydrated and plan morning or evening outings.

Clearer skies, comfortable temperatures and lower humidity—considered the best time to visit for outdoor activities, boating and birdwatching.

Cool and damp with occasional cold snaps; fewer tourists and a quieter atmosphere—pack layers and a warm coat, as indoor heating can be limited in small establishments.

Scenic island and shoreline trails with tea terraces, historic pavilions and short walking paths—good for light hikes and cultural exploration.

Flat, easy hikes along river levees and between rice fields—ideal for sunrise/sunset walks and close-up agricultural photography.

A famous Taoist and Buddhist mountain in Hunan (further afield) offering significant hiking and pilgrimage trails—accessible as a full-day or overnight excursion from Rongjiawan for more challenging hikes and cultural sites.

Short nature trails and boardwalks through reed beds and wetlands for birdwatching and easy nature walks; seasonal and best with a local guide.

A popular pastime across age groups; you'll find pick-up games in schoolyards and community courts.

Widely played indoors and in recreational centers—common social sport.

Dragon boat activities and local fishing customs tied to the lake are important cultural and sporting traditions, especially in summer festivals.

Common among youth and in school competitions; small local pitches are typical.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with larger cities—order dishes based on tofu, eggs, vegetables, noodles and rice; ask for no meat or fish when ordering and be specific about broths, which may contain meat stock.

Vegan dining is more challenging—carry snacks and learn phrases to explain no animal products; stick to plain rice, steamed vegetables, tofu and simple cold dishes, and confirm oils used.

Rice-based dishes and plain steamed items are usually gluten-free, but soy sauce and marinades contain wheat—ask about ingredients and request no soy sauce when possible.

Language can be a barrier for allergy management—carry translated notes describing allergens and use them when ordering; pharmacy items are available locally but bring necessary medications.