Explore the poetic beauty of this ancient city.
by Bell Sophia 54
Sep 14, 2024
Guangfu Ancient Town, Handan's "Little Jiangnan of the North" in Yongnian, is a 2600-year-old cradle of Tai Chi! The only millennia-old town with water-surrounded city walls, featuring Yang Luchan's former residence, reed marshes, and lotus ponds—martial arts fans and photography enthusiasts will be thrilled!
🛬【Itinerary】
✅ 1-2 Day Immersive Trip
Day1: Ascend the city walls at South Gate (1.5h loop) → Yang Luchan's Former Residence → Wu Yuxiang's Former Residence → Night cruise along the moat
Day2: Boat tour through reed marshes (summer only) → Hongji Bridge (sister bridge to Zhaozhou Bridge) → Return
⛺【Must-Visit Spots】
Water City Walls: Cycle or walk while overlooking vast reed marshes and picturesque moat scenery
Tai Chi Masters' Residences: See the old locust tree where Yang Luchan practiced, touch the "Tai Chi Well" for blessings
Hongji Bridge: A Sui Dynasty stone bridge older than Zhaozhou Bridge, with awe-inspiring fossil patterns on its surface
🍩【Must-Try Foods】
Guangfu Crispy Fish: Soft-boned crucian carp paired with cornbread! A signature dish at old-town eateries
Zeng Zhou: Intangible cultural heritage braised meat jelly, light and refreshing
🏨【Accommodation Tips】
In-town: Guangfu Inn (Ming-Qing courtyard with wall views, 200+/night)
Comfort pick: Arco Hotel (10-min drive, lakeside with pool)
🚌【Transport Guide】
Drive: From Handan downtown → Jinggang'ao Expressway Yongnian exit (30min direct)
Bus: Take Route 605 from Handan Passenger Terminal (final stop: Guangfu South Gate)
🧡【Tips】
Rent bikes for easier wall exploration (¥20/hour), free entry after 5pm!
Summer visitors: Bring mosquito repellent, wear light colors for photos in reed marshes
Hidden gem: Learn paper-cutting from wall-side artisans—create a Tai Chi design in 2 minutes!
(Off-the-beaten-path & budget-friendly—perfect for weekend getaways!)
Fun fact: Guangfu's walls were built with sticky rice mortar and egg whites in Ming Dynasty—even cannonproof! Still home to nearly 10,000 residents today, truly a living ancient town.
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