Things To Do
in Longjiang

Marshes and reedbeds attract cranes, herons and migratory birds — ideal for sunrise and birdwatching photography (bring a long lens).

Longjiang riverbanks and small bridges create photogenic compositions, especially in misty mornings and autumn when fields turn golden.

Colorful produce stalls, old storefronts and daily life scenes provide candid street photography opportunities that capture local character.

Wide, unbroken snowy fields, frozen waterways and frost-coated trees offer striking minimalist winter scenes.

Boiled or pan-fried dumplings with pork, cabbage or leek filling — a breakfast and festival staple found at markets and family eateries.

Must-Try!

Sweet-and-sour crispy pork popular in northeastern China; look for local versions at small restaurants in town.

Slow-simmered dishes with root vegetables, pork, beef or mutton — perfect for cold weather and widely available in local diners.

Fermented and pickled cabbages or roots used as a side or in soups — common in local households and restaurants.

A bustling market where you can find steamed buns, dumplings, soy milk, pickles, fresh vegetables and small stalls selling skewers and fried snacks.

In warmer months informal stalls near the river sell grilled corn, lamb skewers and cold noodles — a good spot to try street-style Dongbei food.

Show deference to older people, use polite forms of address and allow elders to be served first at meals.

Accept offered food politely, try a little of each dish if possible, and avoid leaving large amounts of uneaten food. Toasting is common at group meals — a light clink and a sip is fine if you don't drink alcohol.

Avoid loud arguments or aggressive behavior in public; modesty and avoiding loss of face are valued. Remove shoes when entering someone's home if asked.

Ask permission before photographing people, particularly inside homes, markets or places of worship.

Tipping is not customary in most rural Chinese towns; small tips in tourist-oriented services are appreciated but not expected. For guides or exceptional service, a modest cash tip is fine.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate urban and many rural transactions; cash (RMB) is essential in small markets and remote areas. International credit cards may be limited outside bigger cities — bring cash and have a plan for mobile payment if you rely on it.

Cool and windy with thawing rivers and muddy roads; early spring can still be chilly, and pollen/allergies may flare. It's a good time for budding landscapes and agricultural activity.

Short, warm summers with long daylight hours; best for cycling, fishing and wetland birdwatching. Expect mosquitoes near water and occasional heavy rain.

Clear, crisp weather with golden fields and harvest activity — one of the most photogenic times to visit. Temperatures fall quickly after sunset.

Long, very cold winters (often well below freezing) with heavy snow and frozen rivers. Excellent for winter photography and ice activities but requires serious cold-weather gear and awareness of ice safety.