Things To Do
in Dongyang

Dongyang is a historical city in Zhejiang Province, China, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. It is famous for its wood carving traditions, particularly the Dongyang wood carvings, which are recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage. The city also boasts several ancient temples and beautiful natural scenery, making it an attractive destination for both culture enthusiasts and nature lovers.

With its unique blend of history and modernity, Dongyang offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Chinese life while providing contemporary comforts.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Dongyang's Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Dongyang Wood Carving Museum, where you can explore exquisite wood sculptures and learn about the craft’s history.

afternoon
:

Head to the ancient Dongyang Confucian Temple, a tranquil site filled with history and beautiful architecture, ideal for leisurely exploration.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant serving Dongyang specialties, followed by a stroll at the Dongyang Night Market to experience local life.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby Yandang Mountain, known for its breathtaking views and scenic trails.

afternoon
:

Visit the beautiful Dongyang Lake, where you can relax by the water, rent a paddleboat, or have a picnic in the park.

evening
:

Experience the lively nightlife at local bars or tea houses that offer a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$4
Coffee at a café$2
🚍Public transportation ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel (per night)$30
📱SIM card$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious local cuisine with diverse options.
  • Beautiful natural scenery perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Language barriers may be challenging for non-Mandarin speakers.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may have limited routes outside the main areas.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我想要这个" - I want this
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Dongyang

Visit one of these nice places.

Dongyang Wood Carving Museum

Capture the intricate details of wood carvings and the museum's stunning architecture.

Dongyang Confucian Temple

A serene location perfect for photographing traditional architecture amid beautiful gardens.

Yandang Mountain

Breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys provide endless opportunities for stunning landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dongyang

Dongyang offers a delightful culinary scene with a range of local dishes that reflect the region's agricultural bounty and rich traditions.

Dongyang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dongyang Chicken

A flavorful dish featuring tender chicken cooked with a variety of spices and herbs.

Must-Try!

Steamed Dumplings

Delicious dumplings filled with local meats and vegetables, steamed to perfection.

Stir-fried Bamboo Shoots

Fresh bamboo shoots stir-fried with garlic and chili, showcasing local produce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dongyang Night Market

A vibrant market where you can find a variety of street foods, including grilled skewers and local snacks.

Xianqiao Food Street

A popular area for sampling local delicacies and enjoying the bustling atmosphere.

Climate Guide

Weather

Dongyang has a subtropical monsoon climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild, with average lows of 4°C (39°F). Rainfall is abundant from May to September, so visitors should prepare for wet weather during these months. Spring and autumn offer mild, pleasant conditions, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is important; greet them first and offer your seat.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles funeral rites.

Bargaining

While bargaining is common in markets, do so politely and with a smile.

Safety Guide

Safety

Dongyang is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded places and keep personal belongings secure. Local emergency numbers, such as 110 for police and 120 for medical assistance, should be noted. Always carry a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi for quick access to maps and emergency contacts.

Tipping in Dongyang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Dongyang, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay are popular for convenience.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration.

Summer

Hot and humid conditions prevail; stay hydrated and seek shade during afternoon activities.

Autumn

Enjoy cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage, perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional cold snaps; prepare for cooler temperatures and possible light rain.

Nightlife Guide

Dongyang at Night

Dongyang's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with a variety of options ranging from traditional tea houses to modern bars. Many locals enjoy socializing over tea or coffee, while younger crowds can be found in bars offering live music and karaoke. Night markets also come alive with food stalls and games, providing a taste of local culture after dark.

Hiking in Dongyang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Yandang Mountain Trail

A challenging hike featuring stunning vistas and unique rock formations, suitable for experienced hikers.

Dongyang Lake Trail

A scenic and leisurely trail surrounding the lake, perfect for families and casual walkers.

Airports

How to reach Dongyang by plane.

Yiwu Airport

About 30 km from Dongyang, Yiwu Airport serves domestic and international flights, providing good access for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dongyang is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions are located within walking distance. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and crosswalks. However, some areas may require a short taxi or bus ride to reach more remote attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The predominant ethnic group, making up the majority of the population with a rich cultural heritage.

Zhejiang Minority Groups

Includes smaller ethnic communities that contribute to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

A widely popular sport among locals, often played in parks and community centers.

Basketball

Basketball courts can be found in various neighborhoods, with many young people participating in pickup games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Dongyang can vary, with peak hours seeing congestion, especially near markets and schools. Public transportation includes buses that are affordable and cover major routes, though schedules may not always be punctual. Taxis and ride-hailing services are available for convenient travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dongyang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your dietary needs.

Food Allergies

Be cautious and communicate any food allergies clearly, as local dishes may contain hidden ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Dongyang is adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available. The Dongyang People's Hospital is the main medical facility, providing a range of services. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international travel and to carry any necessary medications, as English-speaking staff may not be available in all facilities.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide