Things To Do
in Tongchuan

Tongchuan, located in Shaanxi Province, China, is a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is surrounded by beautiful mountains and offers a unique blend of traditional Chinese culture and modern development. The city is also famous for its coal mining history, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Visitors can explore various historical sites, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the warmth of its residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Tongchuan's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tongchuan Museum, where you can learn about the city's history and culture.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the nearby Qianling Mausoleum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore the ancient tombs and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a stroll through the city center, where you can enjoy local street food and shop for handmade crafts.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the nearby Qinling Mountains, known for their stunning views and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the Tongchuan Park to relax and enjoy the beautiful gardens and lakes.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Shaanxi dishes, followed by a visit to a local teahouse for some authentic tea.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of noodles$3
🥟Dumplings (10 pieces)$4
Cup of tea$2
🍺Local beer$3
🚕Taxi ride (3 km)$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage to explore.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Friendly locals who are welcoming to tourists.
  • Limited English-speaking services.
  • Public transport might be challenging for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Fewer tourist facilities compared to larger cities.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "我不明白" - I don't understand
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Tongchuan

Visit one of these nice places.

Qinling Mountains

A breathtaking backdrop for photography, showcasing lush landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Tongchuan Park

A beautiful urban park featuring serene lakes and gardens, ideal for capturing nature shots.

Qianling Mausoleum

An ancient site with intricate architecture, perfect for historical photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tongchuan

Tongchuan offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect the flavors of Shaanxi cuisine, known for its bold and savory tastes.

Tongchuan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Biang Biang Noodles

Wide, hand-pulled noodles served with various toppings and a spicy sauce.

Must-Try!

Rou Jia Mo

A traditional Chinese sandwich made with chopped pork stuffed in a flatbread.

Yangrou Paomo

A hearty lamb soup served with crumbled flatbread, a local favorite.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tongchuan Night Market

A vibrant market offering a range of street food options, from grilled skewers to sweet treats.

Shengli Road Food Street

A popular area for local snacks and street food stalls, bustling with activity.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tongchuan experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F). Winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while spring and autumn bring mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

It is customary to show respect to the elderly, often by offering your seat on public transport.

Politeness in Communication

Use polite language and gestures, such as bowing slightly when greeting people.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal, and try a bit of everything offered.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tongchuan is generally considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings are advisable. Be aware of local traffic rules when walking or cycling.

Tipping in Tongchuan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not a common practice in Tongchuan; however, leaving small change for exceptional service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are becoming increasingly popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, so plan for indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Autumn

Fall showcases stunning foliage, offering picturesque views, especially in the mountains.

Winter

Winters are cold, occasionally snowy; warm clothing is essential for outdoor excursions.

Nightlife Guide

Tongchuan at Night

Tongchuan's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with numerous bars and teahouses offering a cozy atmosphere. While there are a few nightclubs, most locals prefer socializing in teahouses or dining out with friends. The night market is also a popular spot, bustling with food stalls and local delicacies.

Hiking in Tongchuan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Taibai

The highest peak in the Qinling range, offering challenging trails and breathtaking views.

Foping Nature Reserve

A beautiful hiking area known for its diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Tongchuan by plane.

Xi'an Xianyang International Airport

Located approximately 80 km from Tongchuan, this airport serves as the main gateway for international and domestic flights, providing convenient access to the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tongchuan is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within a comfortable walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are marked. However, be cautious of traffic, as vehicles may not always yield to pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Tongchuan, contributing to the local culture and lifestyle.

Qin Minority

A smaller ethnic group in the region, known for their unique traditions and cultural practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a highly popular sport among the youth, with many local courts and teams.

Table Tennis

A widely played sport in China, table tennis is enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tongchuan can be busy, especially during rush hour, but is generally manageable. Public transportation, including buses and taxis, is available, with taxi fares being quite affordable. However, it's recommended to download a local map or navigation app to help navigate the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tongchuan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check for hidden meat ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited; travelers should carry their own snacks if necessary.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Tongchuan is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available. Major hospitals offer basic medical services, but travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. English-speaking staff may be limited, so having a translation app can be helpful.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide