Things To Do
in Xinpu

Freshly caught fish, shrimp or shellfish stir‑fried with garlic, ginger and scallions; best at family seafood restaurants or waterfront stalls.

Must-Try!

Slow‑braised pork belly in a savory‑sweet sauce, often served with steamed rice — a homestyle favorite at local eateries.

Popular breakfast items sold by street vendors and the morning market — crispy, oily pancakes and fluffy buns filled with pork or vegetables.

Often available at noodle shops and markets; fillings vary seasonally and include pork, shrimp and vegetarian options.

A bustling market at dawn where locals buy produce, live seafood and breakfast snacks—ideal for sampling soy milk, buns, and fried dough.

Evening stalls selling grilled skewers, small seafood dishes, sweet pastries and local drinks—great for casual snacking and people‑watching.

A simple 'nǐ hǎo' (你好) is fine; be polite and avoid loud or aggressive behavior in public. Show respect in temples—dress modestly and follow any posted rules.

Let elders or hosts start eating first, use chopsticks properly, and avoid sticking them vertically into rice bowls (considered bad luck). Sampling and complimenting food is appreciated.

Bargaining is acceptable at markets and for souvenirs but not in fixed‑price stores or restaurants—keep negotiations friendly and modest.

Queues can be informal; maintain patience and watch for locals moving quickly—politely ask if unsure.

Tipping is not customary in most small towns; leaving small change or rounding up at casual eateries is acceptable but not expected. For guides or exceptional service, a small tip is appreciated.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) are the dominant methods; many small vendors also accept cash (RMB). Credit cards may be accepted at larger restaurants and hotels, but bring cash for markets, taxis and rural shops.

Hot, humid and often rainy; bring lightweight breathable clothing, a rain jacket and insect repellent. Afternoon thunderstorms are common—plan outdoor activities for the morning.

The most pleasant season with milder temperatures, lower humidity and clear skies—excellent time for hiking, photography and food markets.

Cool to chilly, sometimes damp; heavy snow is rare in many eastern towns but nights can be cold—pack layers and a warm coat. Some rural attractions may have reduced services.

Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes but unpredictable rain; bring an umbrella and expect occasional muddy trails after rain.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited in small towns—order vegetable dumplings, stir‑fried greens, tofu dishes and noodle soups without meat or broth. Learn key phrases (e.g., '我不吃肉' — I don't eat meat) and carry a note in Chinese explaining your restrictions for market vendors and cooks.

Cross‑contamination is common; Chinese soy sauce contains wheat so mention gluten sensitivity and double‑check ingredients. For serious allergies, be cautious eating street food and carry medication.