Things To Do
in Aoshang

Slow-smoked and stir-fried or braised pork with chilis; commonly found at family restaurants and market stalls.

Must-Try!

Locally caught freshwater fish prepared with a sour-spicy broth or stir-fried chilies; best at riverside eateries.

Assorted preserved greens and lightly dressed salads that cut through the heat—served as staples in local meals.

Comfort breakfasts available at market stalls and small eateries; often accompanied by pickles, peanuts or minced pork.

Early-morning market selling fresh produce, fish and prepared snacks; try fresh steamed buns, fried dough sticks and small savory pancakes.

Evening food row offering skewers, stinky tofu, grilled fish and sweet rice dumplings—ideal for sampling a range of local flavors.

A nod or slight bow is polite; address elders first and show deference to senior family members in rural households.

Use communal dishes and serving spoons where provided; never stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, and accept tea or small offerings with both hands.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially inside homes or during agricultural work; gifts of small snacks or tea are appreciated if you photograph children or elders.

Avoid sensitive political topics; small talk about family, food and local life is welcomed.

Tipping is not customary in small towns; service staff typically do not expect tips, though modest tips are accepted in tourist-focused services—leave small change for exceptional service.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) dominate in China, even in many small towns, though cash (RMB) remains important for markets, street food and smaller vendors—carry both.

Mild temperatures and lush growth; frequent light rains and occasional fog—good time for flowering scenery and fewer crowds, but bring a light rain jacket.

Hot, humid and wet with heavy afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity; ideal for green landscapes but pack sun protection and be prepared for sudden rain.

Pleasant, drier and cooler—often the most comfortable time to visit with clearer skies and good visibility for hiking and photography.

Cool, damp and relatively mild compared with northern China; occasional cold snaps and foggy mornings—layers and a warm jacket are advisable.

A short ridge hike offering panoramic views of rice paddies and the river valley; good for sunrise and accessible from the town outskirts.

Gentle walking loop through terraced fields and farm lanes; ideal for landscape photos and observing seasonal farming activity.

Trail winding through nearby tea plantations where you can learn about tea cultivation and enjoy shaded walks.

Flat, easy trail along the river suitable for evening strolls, birdwatching and photographing reflections at dusk.

Vegetarian options are available (tofu dishes, stir-fried vegetables, pickles and rice), but many dishes use meat or meat-based broths—bring a translation card explaining vegetarian preferences and request no fish sauce or lard.

More challenging due to widespread use of animal-based seasonings; ask vendors to prepare dishes without meat, eggs or animal broth and watch for hidden ingredients.

Rice-based staples are gluten-free, but soy sauce and some condiments contain wheat—carry a Chinese gluten-free card and choose plainly steamed or boiled dishes when possible.

Food labeling is limited—explain allergies in Mandarin (e.g., 我对花生过敏 wǒ duì huāshēng guòmǐn) and be cautious with street food and sauces.