Food

Nestled at the crossroads of the Loess Plateau and the Inner Mongolian Plateau, Datong is a city that defies culinary expectations. Unlike the lush, rice-growing regions of southern China or the vast, pastoral grasslands of the north, Datong offers a unique gastronomic experience where carbohydrates and meat reign supreme. The city’s distinctive food culture is […]

Jinhua, a prominent spot on Zhejiang’s map, is often affectionately referred to as a “scattered (散装)” city by its residents. This seemingly unflattering nickname stems from the city’s diverse offerings, each capable of standing strong on its own. From the global renown of Hengdian World Studios and Yiwu’s International Trade City to Yongkang’s hardware industry […]

A Land of Rich Heritage and Natural Bounty Nestled in the southwestern part of Guangdong Province, Maoming is a city where history and nature intertwine to create a vibrant and unique cultural landscape. Known as the “City of Goodwill,” Maoming’s name originates from a legendary Daoist figure, Pan Maoming, who was revered for his selfless […]

While big cities like Beijing and Shanghai are often celebrated for their diverse culinary scenes, some of China’s most authentic international flavors are surprisingly found in its small towns. Unlike the bustling metropolises where global cuisines are commonplace, these smaller cities offer a unique blend of authenticity and cultural richness that reflects the history and […]

The Symphony of Street Dining When I think of Da Pai Dang (大排挡), the first thing that comes to mind isn’t the taste or the food, but the sound. The vibrant, layered cacophony is what defines the experience. Imagine sitting at a battered plastic table on a warm summer night, and the city’s nightscape unfolds […]

As the northern seas prepare to open, a bounty of delicacies from the cold waters—like sweet and firm hair crabs, succulent shrimp, and plump scallops—will soon make their way to eager tables. While Hebei is emerging as a seafood hotspot, it’s not just the coastal cities like Qinhuangdao or Tangshan that are making waves. The […]

Amid the subtropical sun, not even the cool sea breeze can dampen the intense heat that permeates the air. The rays of light pierce through the blades of exhaust fans, reflecting off the towering alloy beer tanks and illuminating the bustling figures moving between them. In this scene, workers are busy washing barrels and checking […]

In Taizhou’s Songmen Seafood Market, the air is filled with the briny aroma of the ocean and the lively chatter of vendors and customers. Amidst the bustling stalls, an array of seafood waits for eager buyers. One particular stall catches the eye with its peculiar offerings. The vendor, speaking in a mix of broken Mandarin […]

A Hidden Gem on the Edge of China Dandong (丹东), a city that many Chinese people recognize by name, yet remains somewhat enigmatic, is China’s largest border city. While its name might resonate due to its famous produce—like the delectable Dandong strawberries that dominate markets across the nation or the sweet and tender soft dates—Dandong […]

Fujian’s coastlines have recently opened up, and the anticipation among locals is palpable. After over three months of rest, the region is bracing for a spectacular seafood revival. Crabs, eels, silver pomfret, mantis shrimp, clams, squid, sea snails, razor clams, and green-lipped mussels are set to make their grand reappearance. For the people of Fujian, […]