Day Trips from Qiqihar. Excursions, Nearby Cities, Tours

Locations Within Day-Trip Distance

Daqing (大庆): An oil city about 1.5-2 hours by high-speed train or bus. Known as China's "Oil City," it has attractions like the Daqing Iron Man Wang Jinxi Memorial Hall and parks. It shows China's industrial development.

Gannan County (甘南县): A non-urban county known for its agricultural landscape. It gives a look into rural life and farming practices in Heilongjiang. About 1-2 hours drive, it contrasts urban environments.

Transportation to Each Place

Daqing: High-speed train (D-class) or long-distance bus from Qiqihar. Both have regular services.
Gannan County: Local bus or private car/taxi. City buses are economical but slower.
Organized Tours: Less common for international visitors.
Independent Travel: Feasible for Daqing via public transport. Gannan County more challenging without local language skills.

Natural Retreats Near Qiqihar

Explore the natural landscapes for a clean scenery.

Parks and Nature Reserves

Beyond Zhalong (a core Qiqihar attraction), other smaller, local nature parks or scenic areas exist within Heilongjiang province. These spots welcome appreciation of local flora and fauna.

Scenic Views

No significant mountains near Qiqihar.
No beaches in the region.
Vast plains and agricultural fields yield scenic drives.

Seasonal Natural Events

Natural phenomena occur throughout the year.

Seasonal Attractions

Spring/Autumn: Bird migration at Zhalong draws many species.
Winter: Snow-covered landscapes transform the plains.
Summer: Lush green landscapes.

Cultural Journeys Near Qiqihar

Historical Sites Beyond Qiqihar

Less prominent cultural or historical sites within easy day-trip distance are distinct from Qiqihar's own.
Most significant historical sites for a broader perspective dwell in Harbin.
No major pilgrimage sites easily reached for international tourism.
Limited dedicated cultural tours for international visitors.

Rural Villages and Farming Areas

This contrasts city life and creates interaction with local communities.
Language barriers present challenges for independent exploration.
More rustic tourist infrastructure in rural areas.

Longer Stays from Qiqihar

Adding 1-3 Days to Your Journey:Harbin (2-3 hours by high-speed train)
Next Destination:Harbin (distinct history, culture)
Other Northeast Cities:Shenyang and Dalian (Liaoning province)
Transportation Links:Frequent high-speed trains heading to Harbin

Suggested Route:Qiqihar > Harbin > Shenyang > Dalian
Travel Method:Efficient by train
Experience:Diverse cities and landscapes
Festival Highlight:Harbin Ice and Snow Festival (winter)

Plan Your Excursions

Consider booking local experiences through GetYourGuide's day trip section for wider options and ease.

Exploring Zhalong Nature Reserve

Zhalong National Nature Reserve is a attraction for its wetland ecology and crane population.

Red-Crowned Cranes

Witness daily crane release shows, an enthralling sight. Best viewing is morning or late afternoon.

Wetland Ecology

Explore extensive boardwalks and watch various migratory birds within the vast wetland ecosystem.

Photography Tips

Bring a telephoto lens for bird photography. Maintain respectful distance from wildlife.

Getting There

Zhalong Nature Reserve is about 30km southeast of Qiqihar city center.

Transport Options

Taxi: Most convenient way to Zhalong. Agree on fare beforehand.
Bus: Local buses run from Qiqihar Longsha Bus Station to Zhalong.
Private car: Arrange through your hotel or a local travel agency.

Best Time to Visit

The reserve is open year-round, but specific seasons offer different experiences.

Seasonal Experiences

Spring/Autumn: Peak migration for various bird species.
Summer: Lush green wetlands, active resident birds.
Winter: Snow-covered landscape with cranes present (fed by staff).

Visitor Information

Opening Hours:Generally 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (check seasonal fluctuations)

Entrance Fee:Varies, typically 50-80 RMB

Crane Release Show:Usually twice daily (check current schedule)

Boat Rides:Available during warmer months

Facilities:Restrooms, small shops, visitor center

Guided Tours:Limited English options; consider private guide

Plan Ahead

Bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
Wear comfortable walking shoes.
Binoculars enhance birdwatching.
Check weather forecasts for the day of your visit.
Confirm crane show times upon arrival.

Local Cuisine & Dining

Qiqihar's dining scene has authentic Northeastern Chinese flavors.

Qiqihar BBQ Specialty

Qiqihar is famed for its unique style of BBQ, a must-try local experience.

BBQ Highlights

Self-grilled meats: often beef, pork, and lamb.
Variety of dipping sauces and spices.
Pair with local beer for the full experience.

Dongbei Cuisine

Northeastern Chinese cuisine is hearty and flavorful, emphasizing fresh ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes

Guo Bao Rou (锅包肉): Crispy sweet and sour pork.
Di San Xian (地三鲜): Stir-fried potato, green pepper, and eggplant.
Stewed dishes (炖菜): Hearty and warming, especially in winter.

Street Food & Snacks

Explore local markets and street suppliers for a range of delicious and affordable snacks.

Popular Options

Jianbing (煎饼): Savory crepe for breakfast.
Chuan'r (串儿): Skewers of meat or vegetables.
Local pastries and sweets.

Dining Etiquette

Observe local customs for a respectful dining experience.

Table Manners

Wait to be seated, or find a table if informal.
Do not stick chopsticks vertically in rice.
Pour tea for others before yourself.

Payment Methods

Cash is less common; mobile payment is dominant.

WeChat Pay 微信支付

Widely accepted mobile payment platform. Link your international credit card.

Alipay 支付宝

Another popular mobile payment. Also linkable to cards from other countries.

Cash / Cards

Carry some small cash for very local vendors. Credit cards generally not accepted directly at smaller shops.

Tipping Culture

Tipping is not customary or expected in Qiqihar, or generally in China.

Transportation in Qiqihar

Navigating Qiqihar is straightforward with several transport options.

Getting Around the City

Public Buses

Extensive network, affordable fares (usually 1-2 RMB). Look for courses covering major attractions.

Taxis

Readily available and metered. Handy for direct travel, especially with baggage or language barrier.

Ride-Sharing Didi

Use Didi Chuxing app (China's Uber) for convenient booking and cashless payment. English interface available.

Inter-City Travel

High-speed trains (动车 - D-series, 高铁 - G-series) connect Qiqihar to major cities like Harbin and Daqing.
Conventional trains (K-series, Z-series) are slower but often cheaper.
Long-distance coaches serve closer destinations and smaller towns.
Purchase rail passes via the 12306 app/website (Chinese only), trip.com, or at train stations (passport needed).
Plan inter-city travel in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Consider flight compensation facilities if flights are delayed or cancelled. (Compensair)

Airport Information

Qiqihar Sanjiazi Airport (IQI) serves domestic flights.
Connections to major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
Transport to/from airport: taxi or airport shuttle bus.
No international flights from Qiqihar. Connect via larger hubs.
Check your flight status and terminal before departure.
Access airport lounges with Priority Pass for comfort.

Important Travel Apps

Didi Chuxing 滴滴出行

For ride-hailing services. Essential for easy taxi and private car bookings.

Baidu Maps 百度地图

China's most comprehensive mapping app. Helpful for public transport routes.

WeChat 微信

For communication, mobile payments, and a range of services. Almost indispensable.

Navigating Local Transport

Always have your destination written in Chinese to show drivers. Mobile payment via WeChat Pay or Alipay is common for buses and Didi.

Day Trips from Qiqihar