Things To Do
in Foshan

A silky milk custard dessert unique to Shunde; look for it in traditional dessert shops and Shunde restaurants.

Must-Try!

Classic yum cha staples—har gow, siu mai, rice rolls—served in teahouses across Foshan, especially at morning and lunchtime.

Well-roasted poultry and barbecued pork available at specialist shops and Cantonese restaurants; great with rice or noodles.

Locally sourced fish and shellfish prepared steamed or braised in light Cantonese sauces; try Shunde-style steamed fish at reputable family-run restaurants.

A simple '你好' (nǐ hǎo) or a nod is fine; in Cantonese communities '唔該' (m̀h gōi) is commonly used for 'please/thank you' in service contexts.

Meals are shared family-style; avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice and use serving utensils when provided—try dishes by offering to share and praise the food.

Show deference to older people in conversation and seating; addressing people by titles or surnames is appropriate in formal settings.

Present business cards with both hands and take a moment to read any card you are given—store it respectfully rather than stuffing it in a pocket immediately.

Tipping is not customary in most local restaurants and taxis; small tips in high-end hotels or for exceptional service are appreciated but not expected. For guides and drivers booked through tour companies a small tip is okay.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate everyday transactions; UnionPay is widely accepted for cards, while Visa/Mastercard acceptance is common in upscale hotels, malls and international chains. Carry some cash (RMB) for small stalls and rural areas.

Mild temperatures with increasing humidity and occasional rain; flowers begin to bloom—carry a light rain jacket and an umbrella for short showers.

Hot, humid and rainy with occasional typhoon influence (June–September); expect heavy showers and high humidity—stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during peak heat.

The most pleasant season—cooler, drier and clear skies make it ideal for outdoor sightseeing and hikes; pack light layers for comfortable days and cooler evenings.

Mild but damp and overcast; temperatures are generally cool rather than cold, but humidity can make it feel chilly—bring a waterproof jacket and warm layers.

Vegetarian options exist but many Cantonese dishes use stock made from meat or seafood; ask explicitly for '素' (sù) and request no meat stock—vegetarian restaurants and Buddhist eateries are good options.

Vegan availability is limited outside dedicated vegetarian restaurants; carry snacks and learn key phrases to explain dietary needs.

Soy sauce and wheat-based sauces are common—explain restrictions clearly and prefer steamed dishes, plain rice and fresh vegetables; major restaurants may accommodate if warned.

Halal restaurants are limited; travelers requiring halal food should research in advance or head to Guangzhou for more options.