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Things to Do in Qiqihar

Things to Do in Qiqihar

Qiqihar Heilongjiang, China Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures in Qiqihar

Embrace Qiqihar's natural environment through a variety of outdoor pursuits, especially at the Zhalong National Nature Reserve. Book your adventures through GetYourGuide.

Nature Exploration & Wildlife

Hiking and Trekking

Formal hiking or trekking routes particularly for tourists are limited. The Zhalong National Nature Reserve features boardwalks and walking paths suitable for easy walking, a gentle way to explore the wetlands. These trails are generally flat and accessible.

Wildlife Encounters

Zhalong National Nature Reserve is the main activity for wildlife viewing, specifically birdwatching for cranes and other waterfowl. It provides opportunities for close encounters with wild birds in their natural habitat, including the iconic Red-crowned Cranes.

Cycling & Mountain Biking

Cycling is popular among locals, but dedicated, extensive cycling routes are not a major tourist offering. Basic cycling is possible in parks or along less busy city streets. Mountain biking opportunities are not available due to the flat terrain.

Water Sports & Adventure

  • Boating: Paddle boats or small motorboats are for rent on lakes within Longsha Park during warm months. They present a relaxing way to appreciate the park's scenery.
  • Water Sports Opportunities: No significant water sports opportunities exist due to the nature of Qiqihar's waterways. The Nen River is not mainly for recreational water sports.
  • Adventure Sports: No prominent adventure sports or adrenaline experiences are available. The city focuses more on serene nature observation and cultural exploration.

Red-Crowned Crane Viewing

  • Main activity at Zhalong Nature Reserve.
  • Best visited during migration seasons (Spring, Autumn).
  • Daily crane release shows.

Indoor Swimming

  • No natural large inland seas or beaches for swimming.
  • Some larger hotels may feature indoor swimming pools for guests.

Urban Park Activities

  • Longsha Park offers leisurely walks and paddle boating.
  • Enjoy the traditional Chinese gardens.
  • Relax in green spaces.

Safety Notice for Outdoor Activities

Always follow local regulations and weather conditions, especially when venturing into nature reserves. Follow designated paths and do not disturb wildlife.

Cultural Immersion in Qiqihar

Connect with Qiqihar's local culture through performances and community interactions.

Performances & Festivals

  • Cultural Performances: Qiqihar Grand Theatre may host traditional Chinese opera or regional folk performances. Check local schedules upon arrival.
  • Chinese New Year (春节): Celebrated in late January or February. Experience local family traditions, special foods, and public decorations.
  • Ice and Snow Festivals: Qiqihar may have smaller, local ice sculpture displays or winter activities during the chillest months (late December to February).

Workshops & Learning

Workshops and Classes

Instructional sessions (Art, Craft, Music, Dance) are rarely available or promoted for international tourists.

Community-Based Tourism

This is not a developed aspect of the travel industry in Qiqihar for travelers from other countries. Most interactions are spontaneous.

Language Learning

Restricted formal short-term language classes exist for tourists. This would involve searching for local schools or private tutors.

Confucian Temple Visit

Explore the well-preserved Qiqihar Confucian Temple for insight into traditional Chinese reverence and architecture.

Local Religious Sites

Visit the Qiqihar Mosque and various Buddhist temples to observe local spiritual practices.

Qiqihar Museum

Discover the history, culture, and development of Qiqihar and the surrounding region through its exhibits.

Relaxation and Wellness in Qiqihar

Find opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation within the city.

Spa and Bathhouses

  • Wellness retreats: Some hotels may feature basic spa services, like massage.
  • Public Bathhouses (澡堂 - zaotang): Common and feature a classic Chinese bathing and relaxation experience, but they may not cater to foreign tourists.

Traditional Healing & Retreats

Traditional Healing Practices

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) hospitals and clinics are for consultations and treatments, like acupuncture and herbal medicine.

Language for TCM

A Chinese speaker may be needed for effective communication at TCM clinics.

Retreats & Hot Springs

No major hot springs or natural therapy resorts are near Qiqihar. Yoga and meditation getaways are not available or common for tourists.

General Wellness Information

City Parks for Leisure

Longsha Park and Workers' Cultural Palace Park feature green spaces for walking and gentle relaxation.

Morning Exercises

Observe locals practicing tai chi or other group exercises in parks during early mornings.

Hotel Pools

Some bigger hotels may are included indoor swimming pools for guests as a relaxation option.

Entertainment and Nightlife in Qiqihar

Qiqihar's nightlife has local entertainment choices.

Live Performances & Cinema

  • Live Music Venues: Limited. Some taverns or KTV establishments may feature local music performances, mainly for a domestic audience.
  • Theater and Performance Spaces: Qiqihar Grand Theatre hosts various performances.
  • Cinemas: Show domestic and some international films.

Nightclubs & Late-Night Spots

Nightclubs and Dancing

A few local nightclubs or discos exist, mainly for a domestic audience. These feature opportunities for dancing.

Bar Districts and Pub Crawls

No distinct "bar districts" or organized pub crawls for tourists exist. Drinking establishments are scattered throughout the city.

Late-Night Entertainment

KTV (Karaoke Television): Very popular for group entertainment, with private rooms for singing and socializing. Local eateries and street food stalls often remain open late.

Karaoke KTV

A favorite local pastime. Book a private room for singing with friends and enjoying drinks and snacks.

Late-Night Dining

Many street food vendors and small restaurants stay open late, great for a post-activity snack or meal.

Local Bars

Seek out local bars for a drink and a look into Qiqihar's casual social scene. Expect mostly Chinese patrons.

Language Barrier Note

In nightlife settings, English communication may be very limited. Basic Chinese phrases or a translation app can be useful.

Shopping and Markets in Qiqihar

Discover local products and souvenirs through Qiqihar's shopping venues.

Traditional Markets & Souvenirs

  • Traditional Markets: Local Wet Markets (菜市场 - caishichang) feature fresh produce, meats, and some local dry goods. They provide an authentic glimpse into local life. Smaller street markets may appear in the evenings or on weekends.
  • Souvenir Recommendations: Look for local agricultural products like specific grains or dried mushrooms. Small items related to red-crowned cranes, like figurines or paintings, can be found at Zhalong Nature Reserve or local shops.
  • Artisan Workshops and Crafts: Limited. Qiqihar is not known for specific artisan crafts highly sought by international tourists.

Modern Shopping & Ethics

Luxury and Boutique Shopping

Luxury shopping is limited. Major department stores, like Wanda Plaza (万达广场) and Ginza Mall (银座商城), feature domestic and some international brands. Boutique shopping is not a prominent feature.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

Support local vendors and small businesses in markets for economic benefit to the community. Check that any wildlife products are legally sourced and do not harm endangered species (e.g., Zhalong promotes conservation).

Shipping and Customs

Post offices can handle international shipping. Be aware of customs regulations and duties in your home country for any items purchased and shipped.

Local Agricultural Products

  • Look for unique grains.
  • Dried mushrooms are a good local buy.
  • Find these at local wet markets.

Red-Crowned Crane Themed Souvenirs

  • Figurines and artwork.
  • Available at Zhalong Nature Reserve shops.
  • Also found in various local craft stores.

Department Stores

  • Wanda Plaza (万达广场).
  • Ginza Mall (银座商城).
  • Feature domestic and some international brands.

Shopping Tips for Visitors

Bargaining
  • Common in smaller markets and with street vendors.
  • Less likely in department stores or established shops.
  • A friendly approach is always best.
Payment Methods
  • Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are the norm.
  • Cash is less commonly used.
  • International credit card acceptance is limited.

Final Shopping Advice

Embrace the variety and look for items unique to the region.

Activity Planning Summary

Activities to Consider

  • Birdwatching at Zhalong National Nature Reserve.
  • Trying Qiqihar Barbecue.
  • Exploring Longsha Public garden.
  • Visiting the Confucian Temple.

Practical Planning Pointers

  • Carry a translation app for ease of communication.
  • Reliance on mobile payments is high.
  • Book accommodation ahead, especially during peak season.
  • Pack according to the seasonal weather extremes.
Things to Do in Qiqihar. Activities, Experiences, Adventures