Introducing Shexian County
She County, located in southwestern Hebei Province, on the lower reaches of the Qingzhang River, is a county under the jurisdiction of Handan City, bordering Shanxi and Henan Provinces. With its advantageous geographical location, She County has long been known as "the strategic point between Qin and Jin, and a famous city between Yan and Zhao," a strategic location crucial for military strategists. With a long history and splendid culture, She County is one of the birthplaces of Chinese civilization. It is the place where, according to mythology, Nuwa "refined stones to mend the sky and kneaded clay to create humans." Within the county, there is the Wa Palace, my country's largest and oldest ancient architectural complex dedicated to the ancestor Nuwa. She County is also a historic revolutionary base, where Liu Bei and Deng Xiaoping's army was born. Over 110 Party and government agencies, including the Shanxi-Hebei-Shandong-Henan Border Region Government, the 129th Division Headquarters of the Eighth Route Army, the North China Xinhua Broadcasting Station, and the Xinhua Daily, have long-term headquarters there.
Most Popular FAQs for She County
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
She County, with its rich cultural heritage, dates back over 2,000 years. It has served as an important administrative and commercial center in ancient China, with notable contributions to art, architecture, and craftsmanship. The area is home to numerous historical structures, including temples, bridges, and ancient city walls.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
She County is located in the city of Handan, Hebei Province, about 150 km south of Shijiazhuang. You can reach it by:
- Taking a taxi or driving from Handan city (approximately 1 hour).
- Taking a bus from Handan's central bus station to She County (about 1-1.5 hours).
- If traveling from Beijing, take a high-speed train to Handan and then a taxi or bus to She County.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
She County is an open-air cultural destination, so it's accessible year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November), when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
There is no general entrance fee for She County, but certain attractions, such as temples and museums, may charge an entrance fee ranging from ¥20 to ¥50. Tickets can be bought onsite or through various Chinese travel websites and apps.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required unless you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons (Chinese holidays and summer). In such cases, booking 1-2 days in advance is recommended.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
To fully explore She County and its key attractions, plan for 4-6 hours. If you plan to visit more remote sites or explore in detail, you may want to allocate a full day.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
Must-see highlights include:
- The She County Ancient City, which offers a glimpse into the county's long history.
- The Shexian Ancient Bridge, an iconic historical structure.
- The Guandi Temple, known for its religious significance and architecture.
- The local markets and artisan shops where you can purchase traditional handicrafts.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may be available in English at some of the main attractions, but it's a good idea to confirm in advance, especially if you don't speak Chinese.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
The best viewpoints for photography include:
- The ancient city walls and the Shexian Bridge, which offer picturesque views of the surroundings.
- The Guandi Temple, especially the view from the temple courtyard.
- Local parks and nature reserves that offer peaceful landscapes and scenic spots.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
A recommended route is:
- Start at the She County Ancient City and explore the historical landmarks.
- Walk to the Shexian Ancient Bridge and photograph its historical architecture.
- Visit the Guandi Temple for cultural and religious insight.
- Finish with a visit to a local market or park for some relaxation and shopping.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits and light shows are not currently available in She County, but the area is still charming in the evening with traditional shops and peaceful streets to explore.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
She County can get crowded during Chinese public holidays (such as Chinese New Year and National Day) and weekends. To avoid crowds, plan your visit on weekdays or during the off-season months of winter (December-February).
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
Facilities in She County include:
- Public toilets available throughout the main tourist areas.
- Local restaurants offering traditional Chinese dishes.
- Shops selling local handicrafts, snacks, and souvenirs.
- Rest areas in parks and near major attractions.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
While She County is relatively accessible, some areas, especially the ancient sites and temple steps, may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, most main streets and some tourist spots are wheelchair accessible.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted. Credit cards are not commonly used in smaller shops or attractions, so it's better to carry cash or use mobile payment apps.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
There are local restaurants in She County offering traditional Chinese food, such as noodle dishes, dumplings, and local specialties. For more variety, you can travel to Handan city.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are available in most local restaurants. Vegan and halal food may be more limited, but larger restaurants in Handan may offer these options.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
There are a few guesthouses and hotels within She County. For more upscale options, staying in Handan city is recommended, as it's about an hour's drive away.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
Nearby attractions include:
- The Yinxian Temple, a historic Buddhist site.
- The Daming Lake Scenic Area, perfect for a relaxing day trip.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
Yes, there are several souvenir shops in She County, selling traditional handicrafts, local art, pottery, and snacks.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
To continue your journey, you can:
- Take a taxi or bus to Handan for further sightseeing or accommodation.
- If you're traveling to Beijing or Shijiazhuang, take a high-speed train from Handan.
