Things To Do
in Xintangcun

Narrow alleys, tiled roofs, laundry lines and old wooden doors provide intimate street scenes and portrait backdrops in soft morning light.

Open fields and small waterways reflect the sky and nearby mountains at certain times of year — especially photogenic at sunrise and sunset.

Traditional architecture, carved beams, incense and ritual items offer cultural and detail shots; ask politely before photographing ceremonies or people.

Small bridges and riverside activity (fishing, washing, boats) reveal everyday life and make for dynamic long-exposure or action shots.

A compact market where locals buy vegetables, eggs, tofu and fresh produce; try freshly made soy milk, youtiao (fried dough), and simple dumplings or buns.

Evenings bring snack stalls selling rice rolls, skewers, steamed buns and sweet soups—great for casual sampling and photography.

A simple nod or slight bow and a friendly greeting goes a long way. Use both hands when offering or receiving gifts or envelopes.

Always ask before photographing people, especially inside homes, temples or during rituals. A smile and a polite '可以拍照吗?' (May I take a photo?) helps.

Remove shoes when entering private homes and follow any posted rules at temples. Keep voices low during ceremonies.

Meals are often communal — try a bit of each dish and accept offers politely. Use serving chopsticks if provided and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice (associated with funerals).

Tipping is not customary in rural China and is generally unnecessary for local eateries and markets. In tourist-facing services (tour guides, hotels in nearby cities) a small tip may be appreciated but is not required.

Cash is still widely used in villages, but mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) dominate in towns and are increasingly accepted in village shops. Carry some cash (CNY) for street food and small vendors; bring a card and mobile payment options for larger purchases in nearby towns.

Mild temperatures and blooming vegetation make spring a pleasant time to visit; agricultural activity ramps up and fields become green. Occasional rain is possible—bring a light rain jacket and waterproof shoes.

Hot, humid weather with frequent afternoon thundershowers; expect lush landscapes but also mosquitoes. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon, stay hydrated, and wear light, breathable clothing.

Cooler, drier weather with comfortable days and clearer skies—often the best time for hiking and photography. Harvest activity in fields can provide interesting rural scenes.

Mild to cool winters (colder at night) with less rainfall; frost is rare in low-lying southern villages but some mornings can be chilly. Pack a light jacket for evenings and be prepared for reduced foliage color compared with temperate regions.

Major international hub serving Guangzhou and much of Guangdong province; reachable by taxi, long-distance bus or train from nearby towns—transfer times vary depending on the exact location of Xintangcun (typically 45–90+ minutes from suburban areas).

Another large airport serving the Pearl River Delta region; convenient if traveling to/from Shenzhen or eastern parts of the delta, usually 1.5–3 hours by road from rural villages in the region.