Things To Do
in Xichang

Simple preparations of freshwater fish from Qionghai—often braised or sweet-and-sour—served at lakeside restaurants.

Must-Try!

Smoked and cured pork common in the region, served stir-fried with vegetables or steamed rice—you can find it in local eateries and markets.

Skewers and communal hotpot featuring local spices, lamb or pork and mountain herbs; available at small restaurants and night stalls.

Hearty pancakes made from corn or buckwheat flour, often eaten at breakfast or sold by street vendors.

A bustling market selling fresh produce, cured meats and cooked snacks—great for trying local breakfast items, dumplings and smoked pork.

Seasonal stalls near the promenade offering grilled skewers, fried snacks and simple sweet treats—ideal for casual sampling after sunset.

Showing respect to elders and hosts is important—use polite language, allow elders to be served first and accept invitations graciously.

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in ethnic villages or during ceremonies. A friendly approach often works well.

Shared dishes are common—try a bit of each item. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice (it resembles funeral rites).

Dress modestly when visiting rural or religious sites out of respect for local customs.

Tipping is not customary in most everyday situations in China, including Xichang. In higher-end hotels or for exceptional private guides and drivers, a small tip is appreciated but not expected.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are dominant in China—many vendors, restaurants and taxis accept them. Cash (RMB) is useful for small stalls and remote areas; international cards are accepted at some hotels and larger restaurants but less so at markets.

Mild temperatures and flowering trees make spring pleasant for walking and photography; occasional rain—bring a light jacket and umbrella.

Warm to hot weather with higher humidity; perfect for boating on Qionghai but expect afternoon showers. Use sun protection and stay hydrated.

Clear skies and comfortable temperatures—one of the best times to visit for hiking, festivals and outdoor activities with crisp air and good visibility.

Cool to cold nights and mild days; snow is rare in the city but nearby highlands can be chilly. Pack layers and a warm jacket for early mornings and evenings.

Accessible walks and trails around sections of the lake offering gentle terrain, birdwatching and lakeside scenery; suitable for most fitness levels.

Short but steeper hikes up nearby hills for panoramic views of the city and lake—great for sunrise or sunset photography.

Trails linking nearby Yi villages and terraced farmland—combine cultural visits with moderate hiking and rural scenery.

Longer routes into the surrounding foothills and plateaus for more challenging hikes, alpine scenery and seasonal wildflowers; bring proper gear and local guidance when venturing farther from the city.

Basketball is widely played and popular among youth and in community courts around the city.

Local schools and clubs play soccer; it's a common community sport and played in public fields.

With Qionghai Lake, recreational boating and seasonal water activities are popular among residents and visitors.

During festivals you may see traditional competitions, dances and games unique to Yi culture, which draw local participation.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited; ask for vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes and soups without meat stock. Carry a card in Chinese explaining 'I do not eat meat or fish' to show servers.

Vegan dining is more challenging—many dishes use animal-based broths or sauces. Request simple vegetable dishes and clarify no animal products; bringing snacks is recommended for longer excursions.

Halal options are limited in Xichang compared with larger cities. Seek out Muslim-run restaurants if needed or opt for vegetarian dishes and plain rice.

Rice-based dishes are widely available, but wheat-based sauces and soy sauce are common. Explain your restriction in Chinese and avoid fried snacks where cross-contamination is likely.