How to Meet Locals & Make Friends in Xiaoyi, Shanxi, China

1. Xiaoyi Foreigner's Street

A popular gathering place for foreigners and locals, offering a variety of food stalls and shops.

Multicultural Environment: Provides an opportunity to interact with people from different nationalities.
Food and Shopping: Enjoy local food and shop for souvenirs while making new friends.
Regular Events: Join events like language exchange meetups and cultural performances.

A spacious urban park perfect for leisure activities and outdoor games.

Outdoor Activities: Join locals in group sports like badminton, soccer, or Tai Chi.
Picnics and BBQs: Share food and stories with new friends during a picnic or BBQ.
Nature Connection: Connect with nature and locals who appreciate the beauty of Xiaoyi's parks.

A bustling market filled with local street food, handicrafts, and live entertainment.

Local Food Tasting: Sample delicious regional dishes while chatting with vendors.
Lively Atmosphere: Experience the vibrant and friendly nightlife of Xiaoyi.
Artistic Performances: Enjoy traditional music, dance, and theater performances.

Meet locals eager to practice their English through language exchange groups.

Karaoke bars are popular social venues where you can sing and mingle with locals.

Entertainment: Enjoy singing, dancing, and laughter with new friends.
Language Practice: Sing songs in Chinese and converse with locals.
Friendship Building: Form deeper connections through shared music and laughter.

Join workshops to learn traditional calligraphy and art, connecting with local artists.

Artistic Skills: Learn a new skill while making friends.
Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in Chinese art and culture.
Creative Collaboration: Collaborate with local artists on creative projects.

Learn to cook traditional Shanxi dishes alongside local chefs.

Culinary Skills: Improve your cooking skills and learn new recipes.
Cultural Immersion: Discover Shanxi's rich culinary heritage.
Socializing with Locals: Connect with locals through a shared love of food and cooking.

Explore Xiaoyi on bike tours led by local guides.

Sightseeing: Discover hidden gems and popular attractions.
Physical Activity: Enjoy a healthy, active vacation.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about Xiaoyi's history and culture from local guides.

Participate in volunteer projects to give back to the community while meeting locals.

Community Service: Make a positive impact on Xiaoyi's community.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about local customs and traditions while volunteering.
Friendship Building: Build friendships with locals through shared experiences.

Relax and socialize in traditional tea houses, enjoying local tea and snacks.

Visit museums and cultural sites to learn about Xiaoyi's rich history and culture.

Historical Knowledge: Discover the stories of Xiaoyi's past.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about local customs and traditions at museums and cultural sites.
Socializing with Locals: Connect with locals who share your passion for history and culture.

Attend music festivals to enjoy local music and connect with the community.

Join dance classes to learn traditional Shanxi dances alongside locals.

Stay with a local family to truly immerse yourself in Xiaoyi's culture.

Cultural Immersion: Learn about local customs and traditions firsthand.
Language Practice: Improve your Chinese language skills through everyday interactions.
Friendship Building: Form strong bonds with your host family and the local community.

Visit temples to learn about Buddhism and connect with local spiritual communities.

Religion and Spirituality: Gain insight into Buddhist teachings and practices.
Cultural Exchange: Learn about Shanxi's rich Buddhist heritage.
Friendship Building: Connect with local monks and practitioners.