Things To Do
in Xiongzhou
Xiongzhou is a historic northern town nestled near the northern edge of the Beijing metropolitan area. It blends ancient city walls, temple courtyards, and modern streets, creating a textured, walkable center with a river running through it. By day you can wander markets and lanes that glow with lanterns, and by night you can taste street snacks along the promenade.
Accessible by regional rail and a short drive from Beijing, Xiongzhou serves as a compact gateway to northern China's culture and scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Xiongzhou Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region through interactive exhibits. Afterward, stroll through the ancient streets of the historic center, where traditional architecture tells stories of centuries past. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local tea house, savoring fresh dumplings and fragrant green tea.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Xiongzhou Confucius Temple, an architectural marvel dedicated to the great philosopher. Engage with local artisans in the nearby craft market, where you can try your hand at traditional calligraphy. Conclude your afternoon with a scenic walk along the riverside promenade, taking in the vibrant local life.
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to taste authentic Hunan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spices. After dinner, take a leisurely evening stroll through the illuminated streets, where lanterns create a magical atmosphere. Conclude your day with a traditional tea ceremony, allowing you to unwind and reflect on your experiences.
Begin your morning with a guided bird-watching tour in the Xiongzhou Wetlands, where you can spot various migratory birds amidst lush landscapes. Embrace the tranquility of nature as you walk along the boardwalks that weave through the wetlands. Enjoy a packed breakfast surrounded by the soothing sounds of water and wildlife.
After lunch, explore the unique flora and fauna of the wetlands with a local naturalist who can share insights into the ecosystem's importance. Participate in a photography workshop, capturing the stunning scenery and wildlife. As the afternoon progresses, take a kayak out on the calm waters for a closer look at the wetlands’ hidden corners.
Return to your accommodation for a brief rest before heading out to a local restaurant for a dinner of freshly caught fish from the wetlands. As night falls, enjoy a serene boat ride through the wetlands, experiencing the beauty of the stars reflecting on the water. Wrap up your day with a cozy campfire experience, sharing stories and marshmallows with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $40-90 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Pro: Proximity to Beijing makes day trips easy
- Pro: Rich street food and historic sites
- Pro: Walkable city center with a river vibe
- Pro: Generally affordable costs for lodging and meals
- Con: Air quality can be variable, especially in high-pollution months
- Con: Crowds on weekends at popular markets
- Con: Language barrier for non-Chinese travelers in some venues
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪儿？" - Where is the bathroom?
- "你会讲英语吗？" - Do you speak English?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "我想点这个。" - I would like this.
Places to Visit in Xiongzhou
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient gate structures and brickwork with morning light—great for wide-angle cityscapes.
Calm reflections, lanterns at night, and silhouettes against the water—ideal for night photography and moody portraits.
Narrow lanes, red lanterns, and traditional courtyards provide rich textures for street photography.
Food in Xiongzhou
Xiongzhou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy-skinned duck served with thin pancakes, scallions, and sweet bean sauce.
Must-Try!
Noodles topped with a savory soybean paste and minced pork, finished with fresh cucumber.
Pan-fried or steamed dumplings filled with pork and cabbage, served with a dipping sauce.
Flaky, pan-seared pancakes flavored with scallions—great as a street snack or quick bite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market area offering jianbing, dumplings, roasted skewers, and seasonal bites.
A row of stalls along a pedestrian street offering hot soups, skewers, candied fruits and sweets; best at dusk.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light nod or brief handshake is common; using polite phrases like 'ni hao' (hello) is appreciated.
Queue patiently in lines; avoid pushing or cutting in. Keep voices moderate in temples and museums.
Show respect when entering temples and historical sites; avoid loud behavior and follow posted rules.
Safety
Tipping in Xiongzhou
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most local establishments; in high-end or Western-style venues, a small tip to service staff or guides is appreciated but not expected.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are dominant. Foreign credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and some shops, but not everywhere.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with occasional afternoon showers; carry water, wear a hat, and plan outdoor time for early morning or late evening.
Crisp air and clear skies; pleasant conditions for outdoor exploring and golden-hour photography.
Cold and dry with possible light snow; layer up and seek heated indoor attractions between excursions.
Mild temperatures and blooming trees; a great time for walking tours and park visits; watch wind and pollen levels.
Xiongzhou at Night
Hiking in Xiongzhou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle-to-moderate ridge walk with panoramic city and valley views.
Forest trail with streams and a few small waterfalls, suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Xiongzhou by plane.
Major international gateway, well connected to Xiongzhou by rail and highways; plenty of long-haul and regional flights.
South Beijing hub with domestic and international flights; accessible by new rail links and highways.
Regional hub serving domestic routes and a few international flights; useful if coming from northern provinces.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in the region with diverse urban and rural communities.
Muslim minority community with halal options available in markets and eateries.
Smaller groups contributing to local arts, crafts, and cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and accessible in community centers, schools, and clubs.
Common on street courts and in gym facilities throughout the city.
Popular in parks and community centers; often played in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Xiongzhou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared vegetarian; ask to omit meat and oyster sauce, and seek vegetable dumplings or greens-based plates.