Things To Do
in Shiqiao

A breakfast or brunch tradition — bite-sized steamed dumplings, buns, and rice rolls served with tea. Try local teahouses or dim sum restaurants in Shiqiao for har gow, siu mai and steamed buns.

Must-Try!

Crispy siu yuk and sweet-salty char siu are Cantonese staples; find them at roast meat shops and food courts throughout Shiqiao.

Steamed rice noodle rolls filled with shrimp, beef or barbecued pork; commonly sold at street stalls and small eateries for breakfast or a light meal.

Available in restaurants and wet markets — often chosen live and then cooked to order; popular in Cantonese cuisine for steaming with ginger and scallions.

Early-morning wet markets where vendors sell fresh produce, seafood and snacks — great for breakfast dim sum, steamed buns, soy milk and cheung fun.

Evening stalls sell skewers, rice noodle dishes, sweet soups and local snacks; perfect for sampling a variety of small plates while walking the streets.

A simple nod or handshake works. Address elders with respect and use titles where appropriate; avoid overly familiar physical contact with strangers.

Meals are often shared family-style; use serving spoons for communal dishes and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice (it resembles funeral rites).

Queues are expected for formal lines but may be more relaxed in busy markets; keep noise moderate in temples and public transport and follow local signage.

Avoid political debates and sensitive topics; be polite when discussing history, governance or identity issues.

Tipping is not mandatory in mainland China and is uncommon in casual restaurants; however, tipping is more accepted in international hotels, upscale restaurants and for tour guides or drivers. A small thank-you tip is appreciated but not expected.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) dominate local transactions; many small shops and street vendors accept them. Credit cards are accepted at hotels, larger restaurants and malls, but carry cash (RMB) or set up mobile payment if you plan to use local vendors.

Mild temperatures and blooming greenery make spring pleasant for sightseeing; occasional rains begin late spring, so bring a light rain jacket or umbrella.

Hot, humid and often rainy; expect afternoon thunderstorms and the typhoon season in late summer to early autumn. Stay hydrated, plan indoor activities during midday heat, and pack light, breathable clothing.

Considered one of the best times to visit — cooler, drier weather with comfortable temperatures and clearer skies for outdoor activities and photography.

Short, mild winters with cool nights; rarely freezing. Pack a light jacket for evenings but heavy winter gear is usually unnecessary.

Local residents who speak Cantonese and maintain strong regional culinary and cultural traditions.

People from other Chinese provinces working in industry, construction and service sectors who contribute to a diverse population mix.

Panyu has many family-oriented residential neighborhoods with children and multi-generational households.

Domestic tourists and regional visitors drawn to theme parks, historic sites and Cantonese cuisine.

Widely followed and played recreationally; local pitches and community leagues are common.

Popular among young people with many outdoor courts in parks and residential areas.

Traditional regional sport with seasonal races (notably around the Dragon Boat Festival) — culturally significant in Guangdong's waterways.

Common indoor sports played recreationally in community centers and schools.

Vegetarianism is feasible but requires some care — ask for 'su' (素) dishes and avoid meals with fish sauce or oyster sauce. Many Buddhist-style vegetarian restaurants and vegetable dishes are available; specify no lard when ordering.

Vegan options are less common but increasing; bring a translation card explaining 'no animal products' and seek out vegetarian restaurants or choose simple vegetable and tofu dishes.

Rice-based dishes are widely available (rice, congee, steamed rice rolls), but soy sauce and marinades contain gluten. Ask staff about ingredients or request dishes without soy sauce.

Peanuts, shellfish and soy are common — carry allergy cards in Chinese and confirm ingredients; pharmacies can provide basic antihistamines if needed.