Things To Do
in Zigong

Zigong, located in Sichuan Province, China, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions. The city is famous for the Zigong Lantern Festival, showcasing stunning lantern displays that attract visitors from all over the world. Zigong also boasts a long history in salt production, which is reflected in its unique local cuisine.

With picturesque parks and a blend of modern and historical architecture, Zigong offers a delightful experience for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the Zigong Dinosaur Museum to learn about the region's prehistoric past and see real dinosaur fossils.

afternoon
:

Explore the Zigong Salt History Museum to understand the city's salt mining history and its impact on local culture.

evening
:

Stroll through the Lantern Garden and enjoy the beautiful lantern displays, followed by dining at a local restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a morning walk at the scenic Nanhu Eco-city Central Park, enjoying the lakes and greenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the Zigong Confucius Temple, a peaceful spot rich in history and cultural significance.

evening
:

Experience local nightlife at a teahouse, enjoying traditional music and tea.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of noodles$2
🍺Beer (local)$3
🥟Dumplings (plate)$4
🛏️Budget hotel room$20
🚍Public transport ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with unique festivals.
  • Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and parks.
  • Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Limited public transport options compared to larger cities.
  • Summer heat can be uncomfortable for some travelers.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不会说中文" - I don't speak Chinese
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Zigong

Visit one of these nice places.

Zigong Lantern Festival

A vibrant display of colorful lanterns set against the night sky, perfect for capturing stunning nighttime photographs.

Nanhu Eco-city Central Park

Beautiful landscapes and serene lakes provide a picturesque backdrop for nature photography.

Zigong Confucius Temple

The traditional architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a great spot for cultural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Zigong

Zigong is a culinary delight, known for its spicy and flavorful Sichuan cuisine that features fresh ingredients and bold flavors.

Zigong Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Zigong Salted Duck

A local specialty, this dish features duck that is cured with salt, resulting in a savory flavor that is unique to Zigong.

Must-Try!

Sichuan Hot Pot

A must-try experience where diners cook meat and vegetables in a spicy broth right at their table.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Zigong Night Market

A bustling market offering a variety of street foods, including skewered meats, dumplings, and local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Zigong experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid, averaging temperatures of 30°C (86°F), while winters (December to February) are cool, with temperatures dropping to around 5°C (41°F). Spring and autumn are mild and are considered the best times to visit, with pleasant temperatures and natural beauty.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, addressing them politely and offering them seats.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, wait for the host to start eating first and avoid pointing with chopsticks.

Public Behavior

Maintain a moderate volume in public places; loud conversations are considered disrespectful.

Safety Guide

Safety

Zigong is generally a safe city for travelers, but it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Always keep personal belongings secure and be cautious when crossing streets, as traffic can be unpredictable. In case of emergencies, local hospitals and police stations are accessible.

Tipping in Zigong

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not a common practice in Zigong; however, rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Mobile payments via WeChat Pay or Alipay are widely accepted, making transactions convenient.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this season ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Hot and humid, with occasional rain; it's the peak season for the Lantern Festival, so plan accordingly.

Autumn

Cooler weather and vibrant fall colors provide a beautiful backdrop for sightseeing and photography.

Winter

Cool and dry, with occasional snowfall; perfect for enjoying traditional hot pot dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Zigong at Night

Zigong's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with options ranging from traditional teahouses to modern bars. Visitors can enjoy local performances, including Sichuan opera, and dance clubs that offer a lively atmosphere. Street vendors serve delicious snacks late into the night, making it easy to enjoy the local food scene after dark.

Hiking in Zigong

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Fanjing

Located about 50 km from Zigong, this mountain offers trails that lead to stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Shikan Mountain Trail

A moderate trail suitable for day hikes, featuring diverse flora and fauna along the path.

Airports

How to reach Zigong by plane.

Zigong Airport (ZGC)

Located about 15 km from the city center, Zigong Airport offers limited domestic flights. The airport is small but provides essential services and connections to larger cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Zigong is relatively walkable, especially in its city center, where many attractions are within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian areas like parks enhance the walking experience. However, some areas may have heavy traffic, so caution is advised when crossing streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Zigong, they make up the largest portion of the population and influence the local culture.

Tibetan Community

A smaller demographic group that contributes to the cultural diversity of Zigong, often seen during cultural festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

A widely enjoyed sport in Zigong, with many local clubs and public tables available for play.

Badminton

Another popular sport, often played in parks and recreational centers throughout the city.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Zigong can be congested during peak hours, especially near major intersections and markets. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but it’s advisable to use ride-hailing apps for convenience. Walking is also a viable option for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Zigong.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While Sichuan cuisine is often meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Zigong is accessible, with several public hospitals and private clinics available. Major hospitals are equipped to handle emergencies and have English-speaking staff. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide