Live Your Best Lives
So close, so beautiful, go to Hebei on the weekend
Hebei Province, located in the North China Plain on the northern bank of the lower Yellow River, is known as Hebei. Hebei is one of the important birthplaces of the Chinese nation. Over 5,000 years ago, the three founding ancestors of the Chinese nation, Huangdi, Yandi, and Chiyou, fought and integrated their people in Hebei, creating the history of Chinese civilization. Through thousands of years of accumulation, a rich and unique culture has been formed, making Hebei a province truly rich in cultural resources.
Hebei Province is the only province in China that combines plateaus, mountains, hills, plains, lakes, and coasts. Its vast land and long history have also nurtured a vibrant folk culture and art.
Hebei has a temperate continental monsoon climate. Most areas have distinct four seasons. Aside from the relatively cold winter, all other seasons are suitable for travel.
Qinhuangdao
Qinhuangdao borders the Bohai Sea to the south, the Yanshan Mountains to the north, Huludao City in Liaoning Province to the east, Tangshan to the west, and is close to Beijing and Tianjin. A nationally renowned historical and cultural city, Qinhuangdao earned its name from the fact that Qin Shihuang sent people into the sea to seek immortality during his eastern tour. It is the only city in China named after an emperor. It is a renowned tourist and leisure destination, known both domestically and internationally as the "City of Paradise."
Chengde
Located in northeastern Hebei Province, it boasts a long history and rich multi-ethnic cultural heritage. It is a scenic city beyond the Great Wall and a popular hunting and vacation destination.
Shijiazhuang
Today, Shijiazhuang is a city with tall buildings and wide streets. The Minxin River circles the city like a jade belt, and more than 20 parks along the river decorate the city like flowers.
Baoding
Located in central Hebei Province, this ancient city boasts a rich history and diverse natural and cultural attractions. The ancient Lotus Pond in the city center served as the seat of higher learning during the Yongzheng reign of the Qing Dynasty and was one of the ten famous gardens of the time. Other attractions include the Mancheng Han Tombs, renowned for the discovery of the Jade Cloth with Gold Threads, and the Western Qing Tombs, home to the four Qing emperors.
Zhangjiakou
Zhangjiakou City is located at the junction of Beijing, Shanxi, Hebei and Inner Mongolia, about 180 kilometers away from Beijing. It has a dangerous terrain and is known as the "mountain city outside the Great Wall".
Recommended number of days for play: about 7 days
Hebei, as a province surrounding Beijing, has played a significant role in China's imperial and modern history. It hosts several important historical sites like the Great Wall and imperial tombs. It has been the gateway to northern China for centuries, with rich cultural and architectural heritage.
Hebei is located in the northern part of China, surrounding Beijing. It is easily accessible by train, bus, or car from Beijing and other nearby cities. High-speed trains connect Hebei to Beijing, and buses or taxis can be used to reach specific attractions within the province.
Most attractions in Hebei are open year-round, though the best time to visit is during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is mild. Winter can be harsh, especially in mountainous areas.
Entrance fees vary depending on the site. For example, the Great Wall sections in Hebei range from 40 to 100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the attractions themselves or through various online platforms like Ctrip or local tourism websites.
It is not strictly necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak seasons (spring and autumn). Booking at least 1-2 weeks in advance is ideal for popular sites like the Great Wall and Chengde Mountain Resort.
To fully explore the main attractions in Hebei, a trip of 3-4 days is recommended. This allows time to visit the Great Wall, Chengde, and other cultural sites, as well as enjoying the natural landscapes.
Guided tours are available for most major attractions in Hebei, especially for sites like the Great Wall and Chengde. English-speaking guides are available at some locations, but it is advisable to check in advance.
A recommended itinerary includes visiting the Great Wall at Jiankou in the morning, followed by lunch and a visit to Chengde Mountain Resort in the afternoon. The next day, head to the Eastern Qing Tombs and explore the surrounding natural scenery.
Night visits are generally not available for outdoor attractions like the Great Wall. However, Chengde's Mountain Resort may have occasional evening events or performances during peak tourist seasons.
Hebei can be crowded during Chinese national holidays (such as Chinese New Year and National Day). The least crowded times to visit are during the off-peak months of late autumn (November) and winter (except for major holidays).
Most tourist attractions in Hebei have basic facilities, including toilets, food vendors, water stations, and small shops for souvenirs. Larger sites like Chengde and the Great Wall have more developed amenities.
Many of Hebei's major attractions, like the Chengde Mountain Resort and sections of the Great Wall, are accessible to elderly and children. However, some areas, especially mountainous regions, can be challenging for disabled visitors.
Cash is still widely used, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted at most attractions and in cities. Credit cards are accepted at major tourist spots, but it’s a good idea to carry cash in more rural areas.
There are several local restaurants in major tourist areas like Chengde and Shijiazhuang. Expect to find traditional Chinese cuisine such as hot pot, dumplings, and local Hebei specialties like lamb and noodles.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, especially in larger cities like Shijiazhuang. Halal food is available in certain areas, particularly in places with Muslim communities.
There are a variety of accommodations in Hebei, ranging from luxury hotels in Shijiazhuang to more rustic guesthouses near the Great Wall. Chengde also has a range of mid-range hotels for tourists.
Souvenir shops in Hebei sell local handicrafts, including traditional Chinese calligraphy, paintings, and textiles. In the Great Wall areas, expect to find themed souvenirs like miniature walls and carved figurines.
The best transportation options for continuing your trip are high-speed trains or buses to Beijing, Tianjin, or other cities in northern China. There are also taxis and local transport available in larger cities like Shijiazhuang.
