Qitaihe

Qitaihe is a surprising hidden-gem city in Northeast China. Not only is it known as the “Hometown of Winter Olympic Champions,” but with an average summer temperature of 22°C, it is also an excellent place to escape the heat. Here is a 3-day, 2-night in-depth travel guide covering culture, nature, and authentic local food.

• ​​Short Track Speed Skating Champions Hall​​: China’s first museum themed around short track speed skating, displaying precious equipment used by champions such as Yang Yang and Wang Meng. The interactive area lets you try VR speed skating, and the 8th-floor observation deck offers a panoramic view of the city.

• ​​Taoshan Lake National Wetland Park​​: The city’s ecological green lung, with a 5 km lakeside wooden boardwalk ideal for cycling around the lake. It is excellent for birdwatching in the early morning, and at night there is a “City Lights” light show.

• ​​Shilongshan National Forest Park​​: A primeval mixed coniferous and broadleaf forest with distinctive granite geological landscapes. Enjoy azaleas in spring and the multicolored mountains in autumn, and you can also experience rafting and hiking.

• ​​Xiandongshan Park​​: A natural cave scenic area within the urban district. From higher ground, you can overlook the full cityscape and Taoshan Reservoir. It is a top choice for locals’ morning exercise and walks.

• ​​Xidaquan Forest Park​​: A secluded primeval Korean pine forest with many streams and waterfalls, and extremely high levels of negative oxygen ions. The glass-bottom rafting in summer is cool and exciting, while autumn offers excellent photo opportunities.

Itinerary Route Plan

• ​​Day 1: City of Champions and Everyday City Life​​

In the morning, visit the Short Track Speed Skating Champions Hall to feel the passion of speed skating. In the afternoon, walk around Taoshan Lake National Wetland Park and watch the sunset. In the evening, go to Qitaihe Museum to learn about the history of this coal city, then stroll along the pedestrian street and eat Fulin malatang and night-market skewers.

• ​​Day 2: Fresh Air in Nature and Geological Wonders​​

Spend the whole day at Shilongshan National Forest Park. Hike the Longji Boardwalk and admire the wonder of flowers growing among rocks. At noon, eat roasted potatoes dipped in blueberry jam at the entrance to the scenic area. In the afternoon, return to the city and climb Xiandongshan for a panoramic view of the city. For dinner, try the local specialty Wenxin Gui Guo.

• ​​Day 3: Hidden Forests and Countryside Picking​​

Head to Boli County to visit Xidaquan Forest Park or the Boli Mise Site. In the afternoon, go to the Fendou Village rural complex for a fruit-picking experience. In the evening, enjoy an authentic Boli street-side barbecue before heading back.

Must-Try Local Food

Qitaihe food comes in generous portions and at friendly prices, with barbecue and distinctive noodle dishes as the undisputed highlights.

Practical Travel Tips

• ​​Transport​​: You can take a high-speed train directly to Qitaihe West Station. The starting fare for taxis in the city is 6 yuan. If you are going to Xidaquan or Boli County, renting a car or hiring a private car is recommended, at around 300 yuan per day.
• ​​What to Wear​​: Summers are cool, so bring a light jacket. In winter, temperatures can reach -25°C, making wool socks and snow boots an essential combination. In spring, temperatures vary greatly, so pay attention to wind protection and warmth.
• ​​Pitfall Reminders​​: The “wild deer antler” sold at scenic-area entrances is basically fake. Qitaihe barbecue restaurants usually only open after 5 p.m., so do not go too early. The Champions Hall is closed on Mondays and requires advance reservation.