Things To Do
in Wangguanzhuang Sicun

Simple, springy noodle soups served with clear broth, scallions and sliced pork or local vegetables; available at small restaurants and market stalls in the township.

Must-Try!

Common breakfast and dinner items, filled with pork and cabbage or vegetarian fillings; try versions made by village families at the morning market.

Local greens, sometimes with tofu or dried chilies; extremely fresh and typically served with rice or noodles at family tables.

Salty, tangy side dishes made from pickling local vegetables — standard condiments in rural meals and sold at markets.

Small open-air market where villagers sell fresh vegetables, eggs, small snacks, steamed buns and homemade pickles — ideal for sampling local breakfast items and buying seasonal fruit.

Larger weekly or daily market in the nearby town with butcher stalls, noodle stands, and street food like fried dough sticks (youtiao) and cold noodles; good place to try regional specialties and buy snacks.

A simple nod or 'Ni hao' (你好) is acceptable; elders are shown extra respect, and visiting homes often warrants removing shoes at the entrance if hosts indicate. Use both hands when giving or receiving something formal (red envelopes, gifts).

Wait for the host to start eating or to invite you to take a seat; try a bite of each dish offered to show appreciation. Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice (it resembles funeral rituals).

Ask permission before photographing people, especially inside homes or of vulnerable individuals like the elderly. A smile and a polite request in Chinese will go a long way.

Small gifts (local sweets, fruit, tea) are appreciated when visiting a household; refuse an offer once or twice before accepting to be polite (hosts may insist).

Tipping is generally not expected in rural Chinese villages; small gestures of thanks (a polite phrase, a gift of fruit, or rounding up a payment) are appreciated but not required. In tourist services or higher-end establishments in nearby towns, tipping is becoming more common but still modest compared with Western norms.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are ubiquitous in China, even in many rural markets and small shops. Cash (renminbi, CNY) is still useful in very small vendors or remote areas; international credit cards are less accepted outside larger towns, though UnionPay is commonly accepted in many places. Carry a mix of cash and a mobile-payment-capable phone if possible.

March–May: Warming temperatures, fields turn green, and blossoms appear. Expect wind and occasional dust storms in some northern plains; bring layers for cool mornings and warmer afternoons. A great time for birdwatching and photographing new growth.

June–August: Hot and humid in many areas, with afternoon thunderstorms possible. Ideal for lush green landscapes and abundant produce, but plan outdoor activities for mornings/evenings to avoid heat. Mosquito repellent and sun protection are recommended.

September–November: Pleasant, stable weather with cooler temperatures and clear skies. Harvest season offers colorful fields and fresh produce; one of the best times to visit for outdoor activities and photography.

December–February: Cold and dry, frequently with temperatures below freezing in northern regions. Less activity in fields, simpler village life, and potential snow — dress warmly and be prepared for shorter daylight hours.

Widely played recreationally across age groups; easy to find community tables in town centers and schools.

Common pastime among youth with small courts in town squares and schoolyards.

Popular indoor/outdoor sport for families and social groups; lightweight equipment makes it a frequent choice in villages and town parks.

Casual matches in fields and school grounds; community clubs and youth teams exist in nearby towns.