Things To Do
in Shihe

Shihe, located in the Jiangsu province of China, is a picturesque town known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. Surrounded by lush greenery and waterways, it offers visitors a serene escape from bustling city life. The town is characterized by traditional architecture, vibrant local markets, and friendly residents.

Shihe is also a gateway to exploring nearby historical sites and natural wonders.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Shihe Ancient Town to admire its well-preserved architecture and learn about the local history.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market where you can shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs, followed by a lunch of regional specialties at a nearby restaurant.

evening
:

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbank at sunset, followed by dinner at a local eatery offering traditional dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the nearby Shihe Wetlands for bird watching and photography, experiencing the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the wetlands before exploring the surrounding hiking trails.

evening
:

Return to town for a traditional tea ceremony, followed by a night out at a local bar or karaoke venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee at a cafe$3
🚕Taxi fare within town$2
🛍️Souvenir shopping$10
🏨Night in a budget hotel$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Beautiful natural landscapes
  • Friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Language barrier for non-Mandarin speakers
  • Fewer modern amenities compared to larger cities
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "多少钱?" - How much does this cost?
  • "我不懂" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Shihe

Visit one of these nice places.

Shihe River

The river provides stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset, offering beautiful reflections of the town's architecture.

Ancient Town Streets

The narrow, cobbled streets lined with traditional buildings are perfect for capturing the essence of Shihe's history.

Wetlands Sunrise

The wetlands at dawn are a breathtaking sight, with mist rising off the water and birds taking flight.

Culinary Guide

Food in Shihe

Shihe offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the region's cultural heritage and agricultural bounty.

Shihe Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Jiangsu Noodles

These handmade noodles are often served with a rich broth and topped with fresh vegetables and meats.

Must-Try!

Stir-Fried River Shrimp

A local delicacy, these shrimp are lightly stir-fried with garlic and vegetables, highlighting the fresh catch from the nearby waterways.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Shihe Night Market

A bustling market offering a variety of street food stalls where you can sample local snacks and delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Shihe has a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are hot and humid with temperatures averaging 28-34°C (82-93°F). Winters (December to February) are mild, with temperatures ranging from 0-10°C (32-50°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders in conversations and social settings, using polite language and gestures.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it resembles funeral rites.

Gift Giving

When visiting someone’s home, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as fruit or snacks.

Safety Guide

Safety

Shihe is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions like keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. In case of emergencies, local hospitals are equipped to handle most situations.

Tipping in Shihe

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not common in Shihe, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are very popular among locals.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring.

Summer

Summers can be hot and humid, so stay hydrated and plan for early morning or late afternoon outings.

Autumn

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, perfect for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winters are mild but can get chilly; prepare for some rainy days and enjoy the cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Shihe at Night

Shihe's nightlife is relatively laid-back, with a few bars and karaoke venues offering entertainment into the late evening. The atmosphere is friendly, and locals often enjoy socializing over drinks or participating in karaoke. There are occasional live music performances at some venues, providing a taste of local talent.

Hiking in Shihe

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shihe Wetlands Trail

A scenic trail that winds through the wetlands, perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Green Mountain Trail

A more challenging hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, suitable for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Shihe by plane.

Nantong Xingdong Airport

Approximately 30 km from Shihe, this airport serves domestic flights and offers connections to major cities in China.

Getting Around

Walkability

Shihe is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, and you can easily explore the town on foot, enjoying the local scenery and culture. Sidewalks are well-maintained, but be cautious of bicycle traffic in some areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Shihe, comprising a significant portion of the local population, contributing to the region's cultural heritage.

Minority Ethnic Groups

There are small communities of minority ethnic groups, adding diversity to the cultural landscape and often showcasing unique traditions and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

A popular sport in Shihe, enjoyed by people of all ages, with many local clubs and tournaments.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played in parks and community centers, providing a great way for locals to stay active.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Shihe is generally light, making it easy to navigate by foot or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect different parts of the town and nearby areas. Taxis are also available for convenience, but it's advisable to have your destination written in Chinese for clarity.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Shihe.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes made with fresh vegetables and tofu, though it’s advisable to check for meat stock in soups.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it’s best to inform the chef or choose rice-based dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Shihe is reasonable, with several clinics and a local hospital available for basic medical needs. Major hospitals in nearby larger cities offer more specialized care. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide