Things To Do
in Xingang

Freshly caught white fish steamed with ginger, scallion and light soy; commonly served at family restaurants and seaside stalls.

Must-Try!

A comforting rice porridge studded with prawns, fish slices and sometimes squid; popular for breakfast and often found at morning markets.

Shellfish baked with coarse salt and aromatics; a rustic, savory specialty best enjoyed when shellfish are in season at local stalls.

Simple vegetable side dishes that accompany seafood meals; a good vegetarian option often cooked with a splash of fish sauce or oyster sauce (ask if you avoid seafood ingredients).

Bustling market where fish, shellfish and vegetables are sold daily; try a bowl of seafood congee or fresh shrimp wonton from a vendor stall.

Evening street-food area near the harbor offering grilled skewers, fried seafood, sweet soy snacks and local desserts; great for sampling many small dishes.

A polite nod or simple 'ni hao' (你好) is fine; show respect to elders and modest behavior in temples. Loud public displays and aggressive bargaining are frowned upon.

Remove shoes if invited into someone’s home. At temples, dress modestly and follow signage about photography and offerings.

Queues may be informal in markets—maintain patience and politeness. Avoid public criticism and argument; indirect, polite communication is preferred.

Do not stick chopsticks upright into a bowl (it resembles funeral rites); rest them on the holder or across a bowl when not in use.

Tipping is not widely expected in small-town China; it may be appreciated for private guides, boat crews or exceptional service but is not required. Restaurants generally do not add tips; round up small amounts if you wish, but avoid making a show of tipping in local settings.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) dominate even small vendors—carry a small amount of cash for market stalls that may not accept digital payment. Major credit cards are accepted in larger restaurants or hotels, but many local businesses accept UnionPay rather than international Visa/Mastercard; have cash or mobile options ready.

Mild temperatures and blooming coastal flora; pleasant for walking and birdwatching but expect occasional rain showers.

Hot, humid and rainy—June to August brings the heaviest rainfall and occasional typhoons; sea activities are available on calm days but check forecasts.

Generally the most comfortable season with cooler, drier weather and good visibility—ideal for outdoor exploration and photography.

Mild to cool winters with lower humidity; rarely freezing but evenings can be chilly—some seafood varieties are out of season.

Long-term residents whose livelihoods are tied to the sea—knowledgeable about tides, fishing seasons and local traditions.

Like many smaller Chinese towns, there is a notable older population that maintains traditional lifestyles and community activities.

People who have moved from inland areas to work in fishing, processing, construction and services; they contribute to the town’s commerce and labor force.

Younger residents who commute to nearby cities for work or run local shops and services.

Both a livelihood and pastime—local festivals and daily routines revolve around the sea and fishing seasons.

Basketball courts and pickup games are common in town and schools, reflecting the sport's popularity across China.

Widely played recreationally in community centers, parks and indoor venues.

In calmer months, sailing and amateur boat racing take place near the harbor among local clubs.

Vegetarian options are available but often limited in small coastal towns—look for vegetable stir-fries, tofu dishes and rice or noodle dishes. Specify 'budan chi hai xian' (不但吃海鲜) is not the phrase; instead say 'wo chi su' (我吃素) to indicate vegetarian. Ask whether broths contain fish or meat.

Vegan dining requires careful communication—many sauces contain oyster or fish sauce. Use the phrase 'wo bu chi rou, bu chi hai xian, bu chi dan' (我不吃肉, 不吃海鲜, 不吃蛋) and confirm about broths.

Halal options are not common; travelers should seek halal-certified restaurants in larger nearby cities or look for vegetable-focused meals and avoid pork.

Seafood is ubiquitous—if you have shellfish or fish allergies, carry clear translated allergy cards and avoid mixed dishes at markets and small eateries.