How to Meet Locals & Make Friends in Hancheng, Shaanxi, China

1. Hancheng International Youth Hostel

A popular hostel with a friendly atmosphere and events for meeting locals.

Hosted Events: Regular social gatherings, cultural exchange nights, and language practice sessions.
Central Location: Conveniently located near popular local hangouts and attractions.
Affordable Accommodation: Reasonably priced rooms, making it accessible for budget travelers.

A Facebook group connecting expats and locals in Hancheng.

Community Engagement: Shared experiences, advice on local life, and meet-ups organized by members.
Cross-Cultural Exchange: An opportunity to learn about Chinese culture from locals and share your own culture as well.
Accessibility: Easy to join, just search for the group on Facebook and request to join.

A café where locals practice English with foreigners over coffee.

Cultural Learning: An opportunity to learn about Chinese culture while practicing your language skills.
Relaxed Atmosphere: A comfortable and friendly environment for conversation and exchange.
Regular Sessions: Language exchange sessions held multiple times a week.

Joining a sports club is a great way to meet locals with similar interests.

Shared Interest: Build friendships around common passions, such as soccer, basketball, or martial arts.
Community Integration: Participate in local tournaments and team events to become part of the community.
Physical Activity: Stay active while making friends and learning about Chinese culture.

Give back to the community and make connections with locals.

Community Service: Help those in need while gaining a deeper understanding of local life.
Networking Opportunities: Meet other volunteers, locals working at the charity, and potential friends.
Personal Growth: Develop new skills, gain experience, and make a positive impact.

Learn to cook traditional Chinese dishes while socializing with locals.

Cultural Immersion: Experience Chinese cuisine and cooking techniques up close.
Friendly Atmosphere: A welcoming environment for learning, sharing stories, and making friends.
Culinary Skills: Take home new recipes and cooking skills to impress your friends back home.

Participate in local festivals to connect with the community and learn about traditions.

Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in local customs, music, and food during festivals.
Community Bonding: Join locals in celebration, sharing laughter and stories during the event.
Unique Traditions: Experience firsthand the unique customs and traditions of Hancheng.

Visit local art studios to meet artists and participate in workshops.

Creative Expression: Unleash your creativity while learning from skilled local artists.
Artistic Collaboration: Work together with locals on shared projects or collaborative art pieces.
Appreciation for Art: Discover the rich artistic heritage of Hancheng and its people.

Bargain for goods and chat with local vendors at bustling markets.

Local Interaction: Engage in friendly banter with vendors and fellow shoppers.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about local food, crafts, and traditions from the vendors.
Unique Shopping Experience: Find one-of-a-kind items not available elsewhere.

Explore the city on two wheels and make friends with fellow cyclists.

Physical Activity: Stay active while exploring the city.
Cultural Immersion: Visit local neighborhoods and attractions off the beaten path.
Community Bonding: Meet other cyclists, share stories, and make lasting connections.

Learn traditional Chinese dances and meet locals who share your passion.

Cultural Understanding: Understand the significance and symbolism behind traditional dances.
Physical Fitness: Get active while learning a new skill.
Shared Interest: Connect with others who share your passion for dance and culture.

Attend live music events and make friends with local musicians.

Entertainment: Experience live performances from local and national artists.
Cultural Exchange: Discover traditional Chinese music as well as modern genres.
Community Bonding: Meet locals with similar musical interests and passions.

Join a book club to discuss literature and connect with fellow bookworms.

Intellectual Stimulation: Expand your knowledge through literary discussions.
Cultural Exchange: Read works by Chinese authors and discuss their impact on society.
Friendship Building: Build friendships based on a shared love of reading and discussion.

Learn martial arts from local masters and make friends along the way.

Physical Fitness: Improve your physical health through martial arts training.
Cultural Understanding: Learn about the history and philosophy of Chinese martial arts.
Community Integration: Participate in tournaments, demonstrations, and community events.

Sing your heart out at local karaoke bars and make friends with fellow singers.

Entertainment: Enjoy a fun night out singing popular songs.
Cultural Exchange: Discover Chinese pop music and share your own favorites as well.
Community Building: Connect with locals through shared musical experiences.