Things To Do
in Shaoxing
Shaoxing, located in Zhejiang Province, China, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and ancient history, often celebrated as the birthplace of many notable Chinese scholars, writers, and historical figures. The city is famous for its beautifully preserved traditional water towns, with classic architecture, ancient bridges, and narrow canals, embodying the quintessential landscape of eastern China.
Additionally, Shaoxing is well-known for its distinctive yellow wine (Shaoxing wine), a traditional Chinese rice wine that has been produced in the region for over 2,500 years, playing a significant role in both its cultural identity and economy.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Stroll through the historic streets of Shaoxing Old City. Visit the iconic Sanwei Hall and learn about the city's literary heritage.
Enjoy a traditional boat ride on the canals to admire the beautiful architecture. Stop by local shops to taste local snacks and purchase souvenirs.
Dine at a local restaurant to experience authentic Shaoxing cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river as the city lights illuminate the surroundings.
Start your day with a visit to the Luxun Memorial Hall, dedicated to one of China's greatest writers. Explore the peaceful gardens surrounding the hall.
Head to the Keyan Scenic Area to see ancient temples and beautiful landscapes. Don't miss the unique rock formations and serene atmosphere.
Relax over dinner at a nearby restaurant that serves local delicacies. After dinner, enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional Shaoxing music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with many ancient sites and traditional architecture.
- Famous for its rice wine, Shaoxing wine, which is a key ingredient in Chinese cuisine.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including lakes and rivers, making it an attractive destination for nature lovers.
- Vibrant local markets and food scene, offering a variety of traditional Chinese dishes.
- Good transportation links to major cities like Shanghai and Hangzhou, making it accessible for tourists.
- Can get crowded during peak tourist seasons, affecting the overall experience.
- Air quality may be a concern in some areas, particularly in industrial zones.
- Limited English proficiency among locals, which may make communication challenging for non-Mandarin speakers.
- Weather can be quite humid and rainy, particularly during the summer months.
- Urban development is rapidly changing the landscape, which may detract from the historical charm in some areas.
Best Activities in Shaoxing
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the beautiful scenery and take a boat ride on the lake.
Explore the traditional Chinese garden and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Hike or take a cable car to the mountaintop for spectacular views of the city and surrounding areas.
Visit the historical site and learn about the legendary figure in Chinese history.
Tours
Uncover the best of Shaoxing with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Shaoxing
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers picturesque views of the water and surrounding mountains, perfect for photo opportunities.
Known for its classic design and offers stunning views of the surrounding area, great for photography enthusiasts.
Boasts traditional Chinese architecture and beautiful gardens, providing a scenic backdrop for photos.
Food in Shaoxing
Shaoxing Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish made with local Longjing tea leaves and fresh shrimp, delivering a unique blend of floral and savory flavors. Try it at Wanshou Palace Restaurant for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
This classic dish features tender chicken marinated in Shaoxing wine, offering a rich and aromatic flavor. Visit Shangyu Lao Street to sample this dish at one of the local eateries.
Tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly braised in a savory brown sauce, best enjoyed at Chunhefang Restaurant for an exceptional culinary experience.
Savor the famous Shaoxing Yellow Wine, a traditional rice wine that pairs perfectly with local dishes. Visit the Shaoxing Yellow Wine Museum to learn about its production and sample different varieties.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Shaoxing better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a variety of street food stalls offering local delicacies such as stinky tofu, rice cakes, and grilled seafood. Don't miss the bustling atmosphere and diverse food options at this vibrant market.
Discover a lively night market featuring an array of street food vendors selling everything from savory snacks to sweet treats. Sample the famous Shaoxing rice wine and various local snacks while soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Shaoxing, it's important to show respect for elders, including using proper titles and serving them first at meals.
When giving gifts, it's customary to present them with both hands as a sign of respect. It's also important to give and receive gifts graciously.
When dining in Shaoxing, it's polite to leave a little food on your plate to show that you have been served enough. Additionally, it's customary to offer a polite refusal before accepting a gift or hospitality.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Shaoxing with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Shaoxing
Ensure a smooth experience
In Shaoxing, China, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or taxis. However, in some upscale establishments or international hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. It's always a good idea to check the bill or ask before leaving a tip.
Payment in Shaoxing, China is primarily done using cash or mobile payment methods such as Alipay or WeChat Pay. Credit cards may be accepted in some larger establishments, but it's always best to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller shops or local markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Shaoxing.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Shaoxing due to the pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and various cultural and heritage events such as the Shaoxing International Tea Culture Expo.
Expect hot and humid weather with occasional rain showers. It's a good time for outdoor activities and enjoying local summer fruits like lychees and longans.
Another optimal time to visit as the weather cools down, offering comfortable temperatures for exploring the city's attractions like the Keyan Scenic Area and Orchid Pavilion.
Can be chilly, but the city has a unique charm during winter, especially during the Mausoleum of Yu the Great Cultural Festival and the Chinese New Year celebrations.
Shaoxing at Night
Hiking in Shaoxing
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination known for its beautiful scenery, lush greenery, and various trails suitable for different skill levels. The peak offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Located just outside of Shaoxing, this mountain is ideal for hiking enthusiasts and offers multiple trails. It’s known for its scenic views and historical significance.
Although a bit further away, Tianmu Mountain is well-known for its hiking paths that wind through pristine nature, making it a great spot for a day trip from Shaoxing.
Offering diverse trails, Daming Mountain is another excellent location near Shaoxing where hikers can enjoy the natural scenery, fresh air, and exploring local flora and fauna.
This mountain is rich in cultural history and has multiple hiking routes that vary in difficulty. It's a great place to enjoy nature while also learning about local legends and history.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Shaoxing through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Shaoxing by plane.
Located approximately 30 kilometers from Shaoxing, this is the nearest major international airport, serving both domestic and international flights.
Located about 60 kilometers southeast of Shaoxing, this airport offers international flights along with various domestic routes.
Situated around 180 kilometers from Shaoxing, this is one of China's major international airports, providing a wide range of international connections.
Approximately 160 kilometers from Shaoxing, this airport primarily serves domestic flights but also has some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Shaoxing, making up approximately 99% of the population.
A significant ethnic minority in the region, though much smaller in number compared to Han Chinese.
Muslim ethnic minority present in Shaoxing, representing a small but noteworthy demographic.
Another ethnic minority group found in smaller numbers in Shaoxing.
An ethnic group that is less prevalent in this area but still part of the region's diversity.
The Soul of Shaoxing
Discover the essence of Shaoxing through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, also known as soccer, is a widely popular sport in Shaoxing, with numerous local teams and youth leagues.
Basketball enjoys great popularity in Shaoxing, with many public courts available and a strong youth following.
Table tennis is a favored sport in Shaoxing, reflecting China's national passion for the game, with many enthusiasts and local competitions.
Badminton is commonly played in schools and clubs across Shaoxing, contributing to its popularity among residents.
Various forms of traditional Chinese martial arts are practiced in Shaoxing, showcasing the region's cultural heritage.
Running has gained popularity in Shaoxing, with many parks and recreational areas serving as venues for jogging and running events.
Cycling is a popular recreational activity in Shaoxing, with scenic routes attracting both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Shaoxing.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Shaoxing cuisine traditionally features seafood and meat, some restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for Buddhist vegetarian restaurants or communicate your preferences to chefs for customized options.
Safeguard against gluten by opting for rice-based dishes and inquiring about gluten-free sauces. Many local eateries are accommodating and willing to adjust dishes to meet dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Shaoxing with these cultural adventures.