Things To Do
in Gaozhou

Local bowls of rice noodles or noodle soups served with pork, fish or pickled vegetables — commonly available at breakfast stalls and small eateries.

Must-Try!

Locally sourced freshwater or coastal fish simply prepared to highlight freshness—find these at family restaurants or diners near the river.

Cured and smoked meats and salted fish used in stir-fries and rice dishes; sold in wet markets and specialty shops across town.

Local tangerines and other citrus used in desserts, juices and sold fresh in markets—must-try during harvest.

A bustling morning market selling fresh seafood, meat, vegetables and local fruits; great for street-food snacks like rice rolls, dim sum-style bites and noodle soups.

Evening stalls near the town centre offering grilled skewers, stuffed buns, sweet tofu pudding and local pancakes—perfect for sampling multiple small dishes.

A simple '你好 (Nǐ hǎo)' is fine for casual interactions. Formal handshakes are common in business settings, but a nod or slight bow is acceptable in informal encounters.

Wait for the host to start eating, try multiple dishes, and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice (this resembles ritual offerings). Toasts are common; slightly lower your glass if drinking with elders or officials.

Show deference to older people—priority seating, greetings, and polite language are appreciated.

Public displays of affection are usually limited; speaking quietly in temples and on public transport is respectful. Remove shoes when entering some private homes.

Tipping is not customary in most local restaurants, markets or taxis; small tips may be accepted in tourist-focused venues but are not expected. For exceptional service, rounding up or leaving a small amount is polite but not required.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate urban transactions and are accepted widely; cash (CNY) remains useful for markets and rural shops. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants but not always at small vendors—carry some cash and a mobile payment option if possible.

Mild temperatures and increasing rain; ideal for seeing blossoms and orchard activity. Pack a light rain jacket and expect some humid days.

Hot, humid and rainy with the heaviest rainfall in early summer and occasional typhoon influence later on. Bring sun protection, light clothing and be prepared for sudden downpours.

Generally the most pleasant season with cooler temperatures, lower humidity and clearer skies—great for outdoor activities and photography.

Mild compared with northern China but occasionally cool; layers are useful. Rainfall decreases and outdoor sightseeing can be comfortable.

Vegetarian options are available but limited compared with major cities—ask for dishes with vegetables, tofu, and egg (if ovo-vegetarian). Use the phrase '我吃素 (Wǒ chī sù)' and confirm no fish sauce or meat stock; stick to vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes and plain rice or noodles.

Vegan dining requires vigilance—many broths and sauces contain meat or fish. Carry a translation card stating dietary needs and avoid restaurants without clear ingredient knowledge.

If you have food allergies, prepare a short note in Chinese explaining the allergy (e.g., '我对花生过敏' — I am allergic to peanuts) and carry medication. Local staff will often try to help but cross-contamination in busy markets is possible.

Dedicated halal or kosher establishments are uncommon; major nearby cities will have more options. Seek out Muslim restaurants or ask for simple vegetable and rice dishes if halal options are needed.