Daqing Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, and eat in Daqing. Our travel guide covers everything from cultural attractions to outdoor adventures to local customs and safety tips.


Introduction to Daqing

Located in the northeastern province of Heilongjiang, China, Daqing is a city that rose to prominence during the 1960s as a center for oil production. Today, it is a modern, bustling city that boasts a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums and historic sites, hiking through scenic trails, or trying local cuisine, Daqing is sure to please even the most discerning traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Daqing

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Daqing Oilfield Museum

Visitors to Daqing won’t want to miss the Daqing Oilfield Museum, which tells the story of how this oil-rich region transformed from a rural backwater into an economic powerhouse. Exhibits cover everything from the history of oil exploration to the technologies used in oil production, making it a must-see for anyone interested in energy history.

Wuying Museum

Those interested in local art will enjoy a visit to the Wuying Museum, which showcases a wide range of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks created by local artists. The museum also hosts regular exhibitions and events, so be sure to check their schedule before your trip.

Daqing Museum

From pottery to calligraphy, the Daqing Museum boasts a wide range of exhibits showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss the museum’s impressive collection of Qin and Han Dynasty artifacts, which includes ancient bronze wares, jade ornaments, and silk fabrics.

Natural Attractions of Daqing: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Xinglongshan Forest Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Xinglongshan Forest Park is a must-visit. Located just 30 kilometers from Daqing city, the park boasts breathtaking mountain vistas, winding rivers, and pristine forests. Visitors can hike through the park’s scenic trails, fish in its streams, or simply relax and take in the beauty of nature.

Daqing Longfeng Wetland Nature Reserve

Covering an area of over 50,000 hectares, the Daqing Longfeng Wetland Nature Reserve is one of the largest wetlands in China. The reserve is home to a wide range of wildlife, including over 100 species of birds and numerous rare and endangered animals. Visitors can take a guided tour of the reserve or explore its many hiking trails on their own.

Daqing Lianhua Lake National Wetland Park

Another natural attraction in Daqing is the Lianhua Lake National Wetland Park, a protected area featuring stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the park by boat, hike along its many trails, or simply relax and take in the serene beauty of nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Daqing

For outdoor enthusiasts, Daqing offers a number of scenic hiking and biking routes. Some of the most popular trails include:

  • The Xinglongshan Mountain Trail, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • The Daqing Forest Park Trail, which winds through pristine forests and along tranquil rivers.
  • The Sino-Russia Border Cycling Route, which stretches for over 1,200 kilometers and traces the border between China and Russia.

Best Things to Do in Daqing: Activities and Tours

Join a city tour

One of the best ways to get a feel for Daqing is to join a city tour. Many local tour operators offer guided tours of the city, taking visitors to top attractions like the Daqing Oilfield Museum, Wuying Museum, and other landmarks.

Check out local festivals

Daqing hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from traditional customs to modern arts and culture. Top festivals include the International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival in January, the Daqing International Beer Festival in August, and the Daqing International Hunting and Fishing Expo in September.

Try local cuisine

No trip to Daqing would be complete without sampling some of the city’s delicious local cuisine. Must-try dishes include boiled fish in spicy oil, stewed chicken in a casserole, and crispy roast duck. Be sure to also try local specialties like Daqing yogurt and black sesame candy.

Week-Long Itinerary for Daqing

Here’s a sample itinerary for a one-week trip to Daqing:

  • Day 1: Explore Daqing city, visiting attractions like the Daqing Oilfield Museum and Wuying Museum.
  • Day 2: Take a guided tour of the Xinglongshan Forest Park, enjoying scenic hikes and panoramic views.
  • Day 3: Discover the natural beauty of the Daqing Longfeng Wetland Nature Reserve, taking a guided tour or hiking on your own.
  • Day 4: Take a day trip to the nearby city of Qiqihar, visiting attractions like the Zhalong Nature Reserve and the Qiqihar Mosque.
  • Day 5: Explore the Lianhua Lake National Wetland Park, taking a boat tour or hiking along its scenic trails.
  • Day 6: Enjoy a leisurely day in Daqing, trying local cuisine and shopping for souvenirs.
  • Day 7: Depart Daqing.

Food and Drink Scene of Daqing

Must-Try Dishes

Boiled Fish in Spicy Oil

This Sichuan-style dish is a local favorite, featuring tender fish fillets boiled in a fiery broth and served with plenty of chili oil and Sichuan peppercorns.

Stewed Chicken in a Casserole

This hearty dish features tender chicken slow-cooked with fragrant spices and vegetables in a clay pot. Perfect for chilly weather.

Crispy Roast Duck

A local specialty, Daqing’s crispy roast duck features tender, juicy meat and a crispy, golden-brown skin that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Local Beverages

Daqing Yogurt

Thick, creamy, and slightly tangy, Daqing yogurt is a refreshing treat that can be enjoyed plain or mixed with fresh fruit and honey.

Black Sesame Candy

A sweet and nutty treat, black sesame candy is a popular snack in Daqing that’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Where to Stay in Daqing: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Daqing offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses. Some top options include:

  • Crowne Plaza Daqing: A luxurious 5-star hotel with elegant rooms and top-notch amenities.
  • Hanting Express Daqing: A budget-friendly hotel that’s clean, comfortable, and centrally located.
  • Daqing Tianhe Yabuli International Club: A cozy guesthouse that offers a warm welcome and personalized service.

What to Buy in Daqing: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts to bring home, here are some popular options:

  • Oil Production Memorabilia: From miniature oil wells to oil drums, Daqing offers a range of souvenirs related to its oil heritage.
  • Chinese Calligraphy Art: Daqing is home to many talented calligraphers and artists, and works of art make great gifts.
  • Daqing Yogurt: This delicious local yogurt can be found in various flavors and sizes, making it a perfect souvenir or gift item.

Local Culture and Customs of Daqing

Daqing is home to a rich cultural heritage, with a unique blend of Mongolian, Manchurian, and Han Chinese influences. Some local customs to be aware of include:

  • Handshaking: It’s customary to shake hands when greeting someone in Daqing, even if you’ve just met.
  • Tea Driniking: Tea is a popular beverage in Daqing and is often served as a sign of hospitality.
  • Festivals and Celebrations: Daqing hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience local traditions and customs.

Best Time to Visit Daqing

The best time to visit Daqing is during the spring and autumn months, when temperatures are mild and the weather is generally pleasant. Summer can be quite hot and humid, while winter is extremely cold and snowy, making it difficult to explore the city’s outdoor attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Daqing

Do:

  • Try local cuisine and beverages
  • Explore the city’s museums and cultural attractions
  • Take part in local festivals and celebrations

Don’t:

  • Forget to bargain when shopping in local markets
  • Talk loudly in public places
  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites

Safety and Health

Safety in Daqing

Daqing is generally a safe city for travelers, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. Visitors should still take basic precautions to stay safe, such as keeping an eye on their valuables in crowded areas and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Daqing

While the tap water in Daqing is generally safe to drink, visitors may want to stick to bottled water to avoid any potential health issues. It’s also a good idea to make sure you have up-to-date vaccinations and medical insurance before traveling to China.

Getting to Daqing: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Daqing

The closest airport to Daqing is Daqing Sartu Airport, which is located about 15 kilometers from the city center. Other airports in the region include Harbin Taiping International Airport and Qiqihar Sanjiazi Airport.

Bus Stations Near Daqing

Daqing has a number of bus stations that connect the city to other destinations in China, including the Daqing East Bus Station and the Daqing Long-distance Bus Terminal.

Other Options

In addition to air and bus travel, visitors can also reach Daqing by train or car. The city has a number of train stations that connect it to major cities across China, and rental cars are available for those who prefer to drive.

How to Get Around in Daqing

Daqing is a relatively small city that can be easily explored on foot, but visitors can also use public transportation to get around. The city has a network of buses that run regular routes throughout the city, as well as taxis and car rental services.

Where to Go Next from Daqing: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time in Daqing, you might want to consider visiting some nearby destinations, such as:

  • Harbin: Located about 300 kilometers from Daqing, Harbin is known for its stunning winter scenery, ice sculptures, and delicious seafood cuisine.
  • Qiqihar: This charming city is known for its historic architecture, local cuisine, and natural attractions like the Zhalong Nature Reserve and the Ang’angxi Ancient and Heritage Trees Scenic Area.
  • Changbai Mountain: Located about 450 kilometers from Daqing, Changbai Mountain is a stunning destination known for its snow-capped peaks, pristine forests, and hot springs.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in learning about oil production history, exploring scenic nature trails, or trying local cuisine and beverages, Daqing is sure to offer something for every traveler. Spend a week or more in this vibrant city, and you’ll come away with unforgettable memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.