Things To Do
in Matigou

Matigou is a quaint village nestled in the picturesque mountains of China. The village is known for its traditional architecture and stunning natural scenery. Matigou offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Visitors can enjoy hiking through the surrounding forests, exploring ancient temples, and experiencing the local culture.

  • "Ni hao" - Hello
  • "Xie xie" - Thank you
  • "Zao an" - Good morning
  • "Zai jian" - Goodbye
  • "Shen me" - What?

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
  • Coffee: $1 - $3
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Matigou's Scenic Landscapes
morning
:

Start your day with a hike in the surrounding hills to enjoy the breathtaking views. Bring your camera to capture the stunning sunrise over the mountains.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market for an authentic experience of Matigou's culture. Sample delicious street food and shop for unique handmade crafts.

evening
:

Relax by the river as the sun sets, creating a picturesque scene. Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional dishes.

day 2
Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Take an early morning guided tour through the forest trails nearby. Look out for local wildlife and breathtaking flora.

afternoon
:

Stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic spot within the forest. Experience the peace and serenity that nature offers.

evening
:

Join a night sky-gazing tour to see constellations without light pollution. Bring a blanket and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the stars.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with a blend of traditional and modern influences.
  • Natural beauty with scenic landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Growing economy and opportunities for trade and investment.
  • Limited infrastructure in some areas, impacting transportation.
  • Environmental concerns due to industrial development.
  • Potential language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers.

Best Activities in Matigou

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hiking in the Matigou Mountain Range

Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems of the Matigou Mountain Range with various trails suitable for all levels of hikers.

Camping by the River

Set up camp near the picturesque riverside, offering beautiful views and opportunities for fishing and stargazing.

Bird Watching

Discover the rich avian life in the area, with numerous species to spot, making it a perfect activity for nature enthusiasts.

Photography Tours

Join guided tours to capture the breathtaking scenery and cultural landmarks of Matigou at different times of the day.

Cycling on Scenic Trails

Ride through the scenic routes around Matigou, experiencing the natural beauty and fresh air while cycling.

Local Cultural Festivals

Participate in local festivals to get a glimpse of traditional Chinese culture, including performances, food, and crafts.

Rock Climbing

For adventure seekers, rock climbing in designated areas offers an adrenaline-pumping experience with stunning views.

Tours

Uncover the best of Matigou with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Matigou

Visit one of these nice places.

Xian Natural Scenic Area

Offers stunning views of the natural landscape and great photo opportunities

Mount Taiqing

Known for its panoramic views and picturesque landscapes, perfect for photography

Luhuitou Park

Scenic spot known for its beautiful views overlooking the city and coastline, ideal for capturing memorable photos

Food in Matigou

Matigou, China, offers a diverse culinary experience with a rich blend of Sichuan and Tibetan cuisines. The region is known for its bold and spicy flavors, use of fresh herbs and spices, and a variety of hearty and comforting dishes.

Matigou Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Liangfen

A popular local dish made of mung bean starch noodles, often served cold with a spicy and tangy sauce. Best enjoyed at Liangfen House in the center of town.

Must-Try!

Yak Butter Tea

A traditional Tibetan drink made with yak butter, tea leaves, water, and salt, providing warmth and energy. Available at Lhasa Teahouse, renowned for its authentic preparation.

Sichuan Hot Pot

A fiery and flavorful communal dining experience with a bubbling pot of spicy broth at its center. Check out Chengdu Hot Pot for a genuine taste of the region's culinary tradition.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Matigou Night Market

Visit the bustling night market to sample a wide array of local street food, such as skewers of spicy grilled lamb, steamed buns, and Sichuan peppercorn-spiced snacks.

Tibetan Market

Explore the vibrant Tibetan market for authentic dishes like momos (dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup), offering a glimpse into the unique flavors of Tibetan cuisine.

Weather

Located in the northern part of China, the climate in this region is characterized as a continental climate. There are distinct seasons, with cold, dry winters and warm to hot summers. Winter temperatures can drop significantly, often reaching below freezing, while summer can see highs that exceed 30°C (86°F). Precipitation is generally more abundant in the summer months, providing a stark contrast to the dry conditions typical of winter. The area may also experience occasional weather phenomena such as dust storms in the spring. Overall, the climate exhibits a significant temperature variation between seasons, making it important for inhabitants to adapt their lifestyles accordingly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

In Matigou, it is essential to show deep respect for elders. This can be demonstrated through polite language, offering your seat to older people, and listening attentively when they speak.

Gift Giving Etiquette

When visiting someone’s home, it is customary to bring a small gift as a token of appreciation. However, be mindful to avoid gifts that are associated with funerals, such as clocks or white flowers.

Dining Manners

During meals, it is important to wait for the host to initiate eating and to use both hands when passing dishes. Also, finishing all the food on your plate is seen as a compliment to the host.

Safety

Safety in a small town like Matigou, located in China, is generally influenced by several factors, including local law enforcement, community vigilance, and socio-economic conditions. Small towns often have lower crime rates compared to urban areas, fostering a sense of community safety. Local authorities typically maintain a visible presence to deter crime and ensure public order. Additionally, the community often engages in informal safety measures, such as neighborhood watch programs, which contribute to a secure environment. However, like any place, safety can vary based on specific incidents or issues such as traffic safety, natural disasters, or health-related concerns. Visitors and residents are usually encouraged to stay informed about local safety practices and follow community guidelines to enhance their security. Overall, while Matigou may benefit from a generally safe atmosphere, it's crucial for individuals to remain aware of their surroundings and engage in common-sense safety practices.

Tipping in Matigou

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Matigou, China, tipping is generally not a common practice. Chinese culture tends to prioritize hospitality, and service charges are usually included in hotel and restaurant bills. However, in some tourist areas or high-end establishments, leaving a small tip may be appreciated, but it's not obligatory.

Payment

Payment practices in Matigou reflect broader trends in China, where digital payments are prevalent. Mobile payment platforms like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, allowing for quick and convenient transactions. Cash is still accepted, but its usage is declining. Most businesses, from restaurants to small markets, tend to accept these digital payment methods.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (April - May)

Best time to visit Matigou with pleasant weather and blooming flowers. The temperatures are mild, and it's a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer (June - August)

Expect warm and humid weather with occasional rain. It's a good time for hiking and enjoying the lush greenery.

Autumn (September - October)

Ideal time to visit with comfortable temperatures and beautiful autumn foliage. The scenery is stunning during this time.

Winter (November - March)

It can get quite cold with occasional snowfall, making it a quiet and peaceful time to visit for those who enjoy winter scenery.

Matigou at Night

The nightlife in this region is characterized by a blend of local culture and modern entertainment. As evening falls, vibrant markets come alive, offering a variety of street food that attracts both locals and visitors. Stalls serving grilled skewers, dumplings, and spicy noodles become hotspots for food enthusiasts seeking to experience authentic flavors. In addition to culinary delights, you can find a range of cozy tea houses and bars where people gather to socialize, enjoy drinks, and sometimes participate in traditional games like Mahjong. Music often fills the air, with live performances in some venues showcasing local artists and providing a lively backdrop for socializing. Cultural events, such as dance performances or festivals, may also feature prominently in the nightlife scene, offering opportunities to immerse oneself in the traditional practices and contemporary expressions of the area. For those looking for a more upbeat atmosphere, clubs and lounges offer modern music, dancing, and entertainment, catering to younger crowds seeking a lively night out. Overall, the nightlife here is an exciting mix of the traditional and the contemporary, making it a colorful experience for anyone exploring the area after dark.

Hiking in Matigou

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Laojun Mountain

A scenic area with various hiking trails featuring beautiful landscapes, unique rock formations, and stunning views of the surrounding region.

Heilong River Canyon

A rugged canyon offering challenging hiking routes, picturesque river views, and opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Shenguang Mountain

Known for its lush forests and diverse flora and fauna, this mountain has several trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels.

Wuhua Mountain

Offers multiple hiking paths that lead to ancient temples, crystal-clear streams, and panoramic views from the summit.

Fanjing Mountain

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with rich biodiversity, featuring well-maintained trails that take hikers through stunning natural scenery.

Aiports

How to reach Matigou by plane.

Hohhot Baita International Airport (HET)

Hohhot Baita International Airport is the primary airport serving Hohhot, the capital of Inner Mongolia, located approximately 360 kilometers from Matigou.

Baotou Airport (BAV)

Baotou Airport, also known as Baotou Erliban Airport, is located about 330 kilometers from Matigou and serves Baotou, an important industrial city in Inner Mongolia.

Ordos Ejin Horo International Airport (DSN)

Ordos Ejin Horo International Airport is located approximately 450 kilometers from Matigou and serves the city of Ordos, known for its economic development in recent years.

Datong Yungang Airport (DAT)

Datong Yungang Airport is situated around 430 kilometers from Matigou and provides access to the city famous for the Yungang Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Walkability

Walkability in a small town like Matigou can vary based on several factors, including infrastructure, urban planning, and community layout. Typically, walkability refers to how friendly an area is to walking, considering aspects such as pedestrian paths, street connectivity, safety, and accessibility of amenities. In many smaller towns in China, including Matigou, the walkability may be influenced by the presence of sidewalks, availability of pedestrian crossings, and the proximity of key locations such as shops, schools, and parks. The town may have a compact design, allowing residents to walk to essential services within a short distance. However, challenges might exist, such as traffic congestion, lack of safe crossings, or poorly maintained sidewalks that can impact the overall walkability of the area. Community engagement in urban planning can play a significant role in enhancing walkability by advocating for improved pedestrian infrastructure and better connectivity within neighborhoods. In essence, the walkability of Matigou reflects a combination of its physical layout, the effectiveness of local governance in prioritizing pedestrian needs, and how residents utilize their environment for daily activities.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The predominant ethnic group in Matigou and across China, accounting for over 90% of the population.

Tibetan

An ethnic group residing in the region, known for their unique culture and traditions.

Mongolian

A smaller demographic group present in the area, contributing to the cultural diversity.

Other Ethnic Minorities

Includes various smaller groups that contribute to the cultural mosaic of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is extremely popular in Matigou among both youth and adults, with numerous local teams and courts available for play.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played in Matigou, with many local leagues and community gatherings centered around this sport.

Table Tennis

Table tennis enjoys a high level of popularity in Matigou, often played in schools and community centers.

Badminton

Badminton is a favored sport in Matigou, with many recreational players as well as competitive leagues.

Running

Running is a common activity in Matigou, with various events and marathons organized throughout the year.

Volleyball

Volleyball is popular in both beach and indoor settings, with community teams actively participating in regional competitions.

Traffic

Located in the mountainous region of southwestern China, the traffic situation in Matigou can be characterized by a blend of rural and some urban influences. The roads often feature narrow, winding paths due to the terrain, which can be challenging for vehicles, particularly during adverse weather conditions. In the town, the traffic primarily consists of small vehicles, motorbikes, and bicycles, which are popular for navigating the local landscape. Public transport options may include buses that connect to nearby towns, though their frequency can vary. Due to the surrounding natural beauty, tourism can lead to increased traffic during peak seasons, with visitors traveling to enjoy the scenic views and local culture. The community is also dependent on agricultural vehicles and trucks for transporting goods to and from markets, adding to the local traffic dynamics. Overall, while not as congested as larger urban areas, traffic in Matigou reflects the area's unique geographic challenges and the mix of local transportation methods used by residents and visitors alike.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Matigou.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

With its strong Buddhist influence, Matigou is accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many eateries offering plant-based dishes and meat alternatives.

Gluten-Free Choices

While traditional dishes may contain wheat-based ingredients, several restaurants and cafes in Matigou now provide gluten-free versions of popular foods, ensuring those with gluten intolerances can enjoy local cuisine.

Healthcare

In this region, healthcare services are primarily accessed through a mix of traditional Chinese medicine and modern medical practices. The local healthcare system often includes a variety of clinics and hospitals, with larger facilities generally found in urban centers. Rural areas may have community health stations or smaller clinics that address basic health needs. The government plays a significant role in healthcare, providing subsidies and funding for public health initiatives to improve access and quality of care. However, challenges persist, particularly in terms of resource distribution, with urban areas typically having better facilities and healthcare professionals than rural locations. Preventive care is emphasized, and local health campaigns often focus on education regarding nutrition, sanitation, and disease prevention. Traditional medicine remains popular, and many individuals seek treatments like acupuncture and herbs alongside or in place of conventional medical care. Overall, while efforts are being made to improve healthcare infrastructure and access, disparities between urban and rural healthcare quality and availability still exist, influencing the overall health outcomes of the population.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2024 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide