Things To Do
in Xingtai

Capture daily life, vendors, and lively market scenes—best during early morning for soft light and activity.

Good for portrait and landscape shots, especially at sunrise or sunset when locals exercise and practice Tai Chi.

Scenic vistas, ridgelines and rural landscapes; early morning mist and autumn colors are especially photogenic.

Vibrant night photography with neon, steam and candid street-food scenes—bring a fast lens for low light.

A popular street breakfast — thin crepe filled with egg, sauces and crispy dough; you’ll find vendors near markets and transport hubs.

Must-Try!

Wheat noodles served in meaty broths or stir-fried with soy-based sauces; look for local noodle shops for an inexpensive, filling meal.

Staples across northern China; available at breakfast shops and family-run restaurants throughout the city.

Common at evening markets—simple, seasoned and best enjoyed with a cold soft drink or beer.

A polite handshake or nod is common; address elders and officials with respect. Using basic Mandarin greetings like “你好” (nǐ hǎo) is appreciated.

Communal dishes are typical—use serving chopsticks if available and try a bit of each dish. Finishing a small amount of food is polite, but don’t overfill your plate to avoid waste.

Bargaining is normal in local markets but not in supermarkets or fixed-price stores; be friendly and reasonable when negotiating.

Keep noise moderate in public spaces, queue where indicated and give priority seating to elders and pregnant women on public transport.

Tipping is not customary in most everyday situations; service charges may appear in higher-end hotels or tourist restaurants. Small tips in cash for exceptional service are appreciated but not expected.

China is largely cashless — WeChat Pay and Alipay are the dominant payment methods in shops, restaurants and markets. International credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger restaurants but not universally; carry some cash (RMB) and ask your bank about mobile payment setup options before travel.

Moderately mild but can be windy and dusty (yellow-sand events from the northwest). Temperatures rise through the season; carry a light jacket and check air-quality forecasts.

Hot and humid at times, with July–August the warmest months and occasional thunderstorms. Lightweight clothing, sun protection and hydration are important.

Clear, comfortable weather and the best time to visit — cool mornings, warm afternoons and good visibility for mountain views.

Cold and dry with occasional snow; temperatures can drop well below freezing. Pack warm layers, a winter coat and be prepared for indoor heating that may vary in comfort.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with larger cities; order vegetable dumplings, stir-fried greens, cold tofu dishes and noodle soups without meat broth. Carry a short Chinese note explaining dietary needs to show vendors (e.g., “我不吃肉/海鲜” — I don’t eat meat/seafood).

Vegan choices require caution because broths and sauces often contain meat. Pack snacks, learn essential Mandarin phrases for allergies, and choose newer cafés or hotels that can cater to special diets.