Things To Do
in Yakeshi

A local staple—tender mutton roasted or slow-braised with simple seasonings; found at family-run restaurants, barbecue stalls and hotel eateries.

Must-Try!

A salty, milky tea made with butter or milk—comforting in cold weather and available at tea stalls, guesthouses, and homes.

Local fresh cheese, yogurt, qurut (dried curd) and butter tea sold at markets and dairy stalls—great for tasting regional specialties.

Northeast-style wheat noodles and mutton/vegetable hotpot are common; warm, filling and widely available in local restaurants.

Traditional market selling fresh dairy, cured meats, vegetables and snacks—try freshly fried mantou, boiled dumplings and dairy curds.

Small street stalls serve skewered lamb, organ meats and grilled vegetables; ideal for casual sampling and social evenings.

Show deference to elders in conversation and allow older people to go first; greetings and politeness are valued.

When invited into a local home, removing shoes at the door is common—follow the host’s lead.

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural or Mongolian herder communities.

Avoid political or sensitive subjects related to ethnicity or national policy; focus on culture, food and nature when conversing with locals.

Tipping is not widely expected in Yakeshi; small teahouse or tour guides may accept gratuities, but it is not customary for everyday service. If you receive exceptional service, a small cash tip is appreciated.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate in China, but in smaller towns like Yakeshi cash (RMB) remains important. Credit card acceptance is limited outside hotels and larger restaurants, so carry cash and download a translation of numbers for purchases if needed.

Spring is a transitional, often muddy time with thawing snow and variable weather; wildflowers begin to appear later in the season, but some trails may be wet or inaccessible early on.

Summer is mild with pleasant daytime temperatures and green forests and grasslands—best time for hiking, horseback riding and camping, though occasional rain is possible.

Autumn brings clear skies and vivid foliage in the larch and birch forests—an excellent season for photography and outdoor activities with cooler, comfortable days.

Winters are long, cold and snowy (temperatures often well below freezing). Winter offers spectacular snow scenery and skiing opportunities but requires heavy clothing and awareness of icy roads.

Accessible trails through dense larch stands offering short loops and longer routes for seasoned hikers—excellent autumn color and winter snow scenes.

A longer hike into foothills of the Daxing'anling range with varied terrain and remote viewpoints; plan with a guide for extended trips.

Gentler walks across open steppe near ranches—good for sunrise/sunset photography and short rides.

Easy riverside trails that combine birdwatching, fishing access and peaceful forested stretches suitable for families.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited—order noodle dishes, vegetable stir-fries and soups; specify no meat/animal broth and bring clear translation cards for staff.

Because dairy and meat dominate the cuisine, vegans and those with dairy allergies should communicate clearly, carry snacks, and rely on simple grain-and-vegetable dishes; urban shops carry packaged options.