In Northeast China, there’s a unique winter preparation ritual known as “stocking up on autumn vegetables.” In Harbin, Heilongjiang, a variety of autumn produce is currently in abundant supply. What are consumers choosing to buy this season?

At a farmer’s market near Huaihe East Road in Harbin, items like potatoes, cabbage, green onions, and carrots are plentiful, drawing many shoppers eager to make their selections.

Reporter: So, are these potatoes sold by the bag?
Vendor: Yes, we sell them by the bag. One bag costs 30 yuan and contains about 30 pounds; a larger bag is 50 yuan and holds over 50 pounds.
Vendor: The green onions are currently priced at 20 yuan per bunch, and they’re selling quite well.
Vendor: We can move around 1,800 pounds of produce in a single day.

Although prices for green onions and cabbages have seen a slight increase this year compared to last, the “Big Three” — cabbage, potatoes, and green onions — remain the most popular items.

Reporter: How much are you buying today?
Consumer: About 100 pounds of cabbage for pickling.
Reporter: Do you stock up on autumn vegetables every year?
Consumer: Yes, I do it every year.
Consumer: I also want to grab some potatoes; I prefer to buy them one at a time. I’m just thinking ahead for winter since it’s not as convenient to go out. You see, it’s mostly older folks like us; we pickle cabbage for easy meals during the winter.

In Northeast China, many people take advantage of the harvest season to buy vegetables like cabbage and potatoes for winter storage. While it’s possible to buy fresh produce even in winter, the tradition of stocking up on autumn veggies remains an essential part of life for many residents in the region.