Things To Do
in Birobidzhan

Russian meat dumplings served boiled with butter or sour cream — widely available at cafés and home-style canteens.

Must-Try!

Freshwater fish smoked by local producers; try it at markets or restaurants along the river.

Classic Russian soups — borscht (beet soup) and rassolnik (pickle soup) — commonly found in canteens and family restaurants.

Thin pancakes served with jam, sour cream, honey, or savory fillings; a common café treat.

Local produce market where small stalls sell seasonal berries, mushrooms, smoked fish, homemade pickles and preserves — great for sampling regional flavors.

In warmer months small outdoor vendors and kiosks near the embankment sell snacks, grilled fish, pastries and coffee.

Use a polite greeting like “Здравствуйте” (Zdravstvuyte) when entering shops or meeting people. A handshake is common for introductions among men; wait for a woman to offer handshakes.

Show deference to older people — offering seats on public transport or addressing elders respectfully is appreciated.

Ask permission before photographing people, religious or private properties. Some institutions may restrict photography.

Birobidzhan has a unique Jewish historical context; be respectful and avoid assumptions. Locals may have varied connections to that history.

Tipping is appreciated but not strictly required: around 5–10% in restaurants if service is good, rounding up fares for taxi drivers, and small tips for hotel porters. In casual canteens tipping is less common; leave coins or round up if you wish.

Cards are accepted at many restaurants, shops and hotels, but small markets and rural vendors may be cash-only. ATMs are available in town; carry some cash for markets, taxis and remote purchases.

Warm and relatively short; daytime temperatures typically reach comfortable 20–30°C (68–86°F). This is the best time for riverside walks, fishing, and exploring forests; mosquitoes can be active near water, so bring repellent.

Crisp and colorful with cool days and cold nights; beautiful foliage along the Bira and surrounding birch forests. Early frosts can arrive in late autumn; pack layers.

Long, cold winters with temperatures often well below freezing and occasional heavy snow and ice — temperatures can drop below −20°C (−4°F). Dress in warm layers, sturdy boots and be cautious on icy sidewalks.

A muddy thaw with rapidly changing weather; rivers rise and trails can be wet. Late spring brings blossoms and active birdlife, but also unpredictable chilly days.

A small regional airport serving occasional flights to nearby hubs; service can be infrequent and seasonal. Suitable for short regional hops when available.

The major regional international airport serving the wider region — most international or long-distance travelers will transit through Khabarovsk and continue to Birobidzhan by train, bus or car.

The largest demographic group, forming the bulk of the population and local culture.

Historically significant due to the Jewish Autonomous Oblast project; today the Jewish population is small but visible through cultural institutions and history.

Present as part of the broader Slavic population mix common across the Russian Far East.

Smaller numbers of indigenous peoples of the Far East and individuals of Korean or Chinese heritage are present in the wider region.

A popular winter sport across the Russian Far East with local amateur teams and community rinks.

Commonly played in parks and school fields; local matches are a community pastime.

A traditional winter activity using local trails and open fields during snowy months.

Both a recreational pastime and part of local food culture, with many residents fishing in rivers and lakes.