Things To Do
in Yan’an Beilu

Thick, hand-pulled wide noodles served with chili, garlic, vinegar and scallions; available at noodle shops across the city and perfect for a quick, filling lunch.

Must-Try!

Slow-braised pork (or beef) shredded and stuffed into a crisp, flat bread; often sold at street stalls and small eateries near markets.

Cold wheat or rice noodles dressed with chili oil, vinegar and sesame — refreshing in summer and common at street vendors.

Pieces of flatbread soaked in a rich lamb broth with shredded meat; a warming local favorite in cooler months.

A neighborhood market where vendors sell fresh produce, breads, jujubes and small hot snacks; great for trying local breakfast items like roujiamo and soy-milk.

A cluster of stalls that come alive at dusk with grilled skewers, steamed buns, cold noodles and sweet potato treats — ideal for casual sampling.

Sites linked to the revolutionary era are treated with reverence: speak quietly, follow signage, and avoid disrespectful behavior or photography restrictions.

A simple 'nǐ hǎo' (你好) and using both hands when giving/receiving items is polite. Keep formal greetings reserved for elders and officials.

Hosts may ask you to remove shoes when entering traditional homes; accept politely and follow the lead of your host.

Communal dishes are common. Wait for the host to invite you to start, and use serving chopsticks when offered. Burping is not polite; eating everything on your plate is a sign of appreciation.

Tipping is generally not expected in most local restaurants and shops in Yan'an; small tips for hotel bell service or tour guides are appreciated but not obligatory. For private guides or drivers, a modest tip is acceptable if service was excellent.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate — many small vendors accept them. Cash (RMB) is still useful for markets and remote areas. Major hotels and some restaurants accept international cards, but foreign cards are often limited — bring cash or pre-load a payment app where possible.

Cool to mild days with occasional wind and dust; early spring can still be chilly. Blooms on loess slopes appear later in spring; pack layers and a windproof jacket.

Warm to hot with most annual rainfall in July–August. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible; mornings are best for outdoor photography and hikes to avoid heat.

One of the best times to visit: clear skies, comfortable temperatures and vivid colors on plateau vegetation; ideal for hiking and landscape photography.

Cold, dry and often windy with occasional snow that highlights the loess landscapes; bring warm clothing — heating is standard indoors but nights are chilly.

Short trails up and around the pagoda hill offering views across the city and river — suitable for most fitness levels and ideal for sunset photography.

Longer ridge walks across the loess plateau with dramatic undulating scenery and village stops; best with local guidance or a map due to unmarked tracks.

Gentler riverside walks that combine landscape views with village scenes; good for relaxed hiking and birdwatching in season.

A longer excursion that can include short hikes around the waterfall viewing areas; requires a full day by car or organized tour but offers a powerful natural contrast to the loess plateau.

The local airport serving Yan'an with domestic flights to major Chinese cities; located a drive from the city center — taxis and airport shuttles connect to Yan'an.

Major international hub (several hours by car or high-speed train) offering many domestic and international connections; choose this if you need more flight options or international arrivals/departures.

Vegetarian options exist but are limited: order liangpi, vegetable dumplings, cold salads and noodle dishes without meat. Ask for 'bú yào ròu' (不要肉) — “no meat.” Many eateries use meat broths, so confirm the base if strict vegetarian.

More challenging because many dishes use lard or meat broth; stick to simple vegetable and cold noodle preparations and communicate restrictions clearly.

Difficult to guarantee because wheat is a staple (noodles, flatbreads). Rice-based options exist but cross-contamination is likely — bring snacks or prepare to rely on simple vegetable dishes.

Some Muslim-run restaurants and lamb-based dishes are available; ask for 'qīngzhēn' (清真) or look for halal signs if you need halal food.