Things To Do
in Xiedian

Freshly made noodles served in a clear or savory broth with vegetables and slices of braised meat; available at small noodle shops downtown.

Must-Try!

Common breakfast items at market stalls: soft steamed buns filled with pork or vegetables, and crispy stuffed pancakes made to order.

Slow-cooked pork belly in a sweet-savory soy sauce—served in home-style restaurants and during family-style dinners.

Seasonal pickles sold in markets; a tangy accompaniment to heavy dishes and a good way to taste local produce preservation methods.

Busy early market where vendors sell fresh produce, eggs, tofu, and prepared breakfast items; great place to try local snacks and observe daily routines.

Evening cluster of stalls offering skewers (chuanr), fried potato pieces, sweet pancakes and soy milk—lively and affordable.

A simple hello (ni hao) and a nod are fine; address elders first and show polite deference to older people. Avoid loudly criticizing local culture in public.

If invited into a private home, you may be asked to remove shoes—follow the host’s lead and accept small gifts modestly.

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially elders; avoid intrusive photos of religious ceremonies without consent.

Sharing dishes is common—use serving chopsticks where provided and don’t stick chopsticks upright in rice (it resembles a funerary ritual).

Tipping is not customary in small towns; most locals won’t expect it. For exceptional service, a small cash thank-you is acceptable but not required. Tipping at hotels frequented by tourists may be more common but still modest.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used in shops and markets where QR codes are displayed. Cash (RMB) is still handy for small stalls and rural vendors; ATMs are available at bank branches in town.

Mild temperatures and blooming trees make it pleasant for walking and photography; expect occasional rain and pollen in some years—bring a light jacket and umbrella.

Hot and humid afternoons are common; mornings and evenings are best for outdoor activities. Mosquitoes can be present near water; stay hydrated and wear sun protection.

Clear skies, comfortable temperatures and harvest activities make autumn one of the best times to visit. Bring a light sweater for cooler evenings.

Cold, sometimes dry weather—temperatures can drop below freezing overnight. Fewer tourists and a quiet, local atmosphere; bring warm layers and check for short daylight hours.

Major regional hub that connects to many domestic and international destinations; typically a 1–2 hour drive from central county towns depending on exact location—reachable by intercity bus or private transfer.

Smaller regional airport serving domestic flights; useful for linking to nearby cities and reducing overland travel time to the region.

Vegetarian options exist but are simpler than in big cities; order clear vegetable soups, stir-fried greens, and tofu dishes, and say “wo chi su” (我吃素) to clarify. Ask about meat stock in soups and sauces.

Vegan dining can be tricky because many dishes use animal stock or egg; use clear phrases (e.g., “bu yao dan, bu yao rou” 不要蛋、不要肉) and visit markets for fresh fruit and vegetable options if needed.

Dedicated halal restaurants may be limited; look for clearly marked Muslim eateries in the wider county or opt for vegetable-based dishes; ask vendors about ingredients.

Cross-contamination is common in small kitchens. Carry a translated card listing allergens in Chinese and point it out to cooks when ordering.