Things To Do
in Hailin

Small markets around town sell dumplings, steamed buns, fresh produce and seasonal wild mushrooms; try a quick bowl of hand-pulled noodles or fried buns for breakfast.

Modest street stalls serve skewers (chuanr), potato pancakes, grilled corn and sweet soy-glazed fried snacks during warmer months—great for sampling inexpensive local flavors.

Politeness toward older people is important; offer greetings and yield space where appropriate.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages or markets, and avoid photographing sensitive buildings or border/security sites.

Wait to be shown a seat at formal tables, try a little of each shared dish to show appreciation, and use both hands when offering or receiving items if possible.

Dress and behave modestly in rural areas; loud public arguments or overt displays of anger are frowned upon.

Tipping is not customary in most local restaurants, taxis or small services and may be declined. In tourist-oriented hotels or for guides and drivers, a small tip is appreciated but not expected.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate even in many small shops; carry some cash (RMB) for rural sellers. Major hotels and restaurants may accept international credit cards, but smaller venues generally will not.

Warm and relatively short; daytime temperatures are comfortable (often 20–28°C). Great for hiking, foraging (berries, mushrooms) and avoiding heat. Expect occasional heavy afternoon rain and insects—bring rain gear and insect repellent.

Peak tourist season for foliage (September–October). Crisp air, clear skies and brilliant colors make it ideal for photography and hiking; pack layers for chilly mornings and evenings.

Long, very cold winters with heavy snow and temperatures often well below freezing; excellent for snow photography, cross-country skiing and ice activities but you must prepare warm clothing, traction for icy surfaces and be aware of shorter daylight hours.

Short and transitional; melting snow can make trails muddy and roads slushy. Early spring can still be chilly, with the landscape slowly greening by late April–May.

The closest regional airport serving Mudanjiang and surrounding areas; reachable by road from Hailin (allow 1–2 hours depending on route). Offers flights to major domestic hubs.

Larger international airport ~3–4 hours by road or train from Hailin; more flight options including international connections and frequent high-speed rail links to other cities.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited; order dishes with tofu, vegetable dumplings, cold vegetable plates and stir-fried greens. Ask staff to omit meat or lard — clarify using '我吃素' (wǒ chī sù).

Vegan dining is more difficult because animal products and lard are common; bring snacks and learn key phrases to specify no meat, no egg and no dairy.

Dedicated halal restaurants are uncommon in smaller cities; look for specialty Muslim-run eateries or seek halal options in larger nearby cities like Mudanjiang or Harbin.

Inform staff of allergies; carry translation cards for nuts, shellfish and gluten if needed. In rural places, cross-contamination is common.