Handan | A Dreamlike Journey Through a Millennium

Dear friends! If you crave a trip that blends historical charm with modern flair, Handan is definitely your top choice! This city is like a vast history museum, with every inch of land carrying stories spanning thousands of years. Now, let me take you on an exciting Handan journey with a budget of 5,000 RMB!

Preparation

● Documents: ID card, student ID (if you have one, be sure to bring it, as many attractions offer discounts).

● Clothing: Handan has distinct four seasons. Check the weather forecast before traveling and prepare appropriate clothes. Thin jackets for spring and autumn, sun protection and rain gear for summer, and thick cotton clothes for winter.

● Others: Sunscreen, charger, camera, common medicines, etc.

Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Zhao Culture

● Morning: After arriving in Handan, head to the Handan Museum. It has a rich collection of historical artifacts, such as those unearthed from the Zhao King’s tomb, allowing you to quickly understand Handan’s historical changes. Free admission 🆓, visit time about 2-3 hours.

● Noon: Taste Handan’s specialty dishes at a nearby restaurant, such as Ermao Roast Chicken, tender and flavorful. Average cost per person 30-50 RMB.

● Afternoon: Visit Congtai Park, a landmark of Handan, built during the Warring States period. It was where the Zhao King reviewed troops and enjoyed singing and dancing. You can climb Congtai to overlook the park’s beauty and feel the weight of history. Free admission, visit time 2-3 hours.

● Evening: Stroll through Handan’s old streets to experience the local atmosphere. Try snacks like Cizhou Menzi at street stalls, average cost per person 20-30 RMB.

Day 2: Walking Through the River of History

● Morning: Go to Guangfu Ancient City, the only dryland water city in northern China, known as the “Little Jiangnan of the North.” The ancient city walls are well preserved, with many ancient buildings and historical sites inside. Rent a bike to ride around the city and enjoy its tranquility and beauty. Admission (including city walls and other sites) about 70 RMB, bike rental 20-30 RMB/day, visit time 4-5 hours.

● Noon: Dine at a restaurant inside the ancient city and try Yongnian donkey meat sausage, a local traditional delicacy. Average cost per person 40-60 RMB.

● Afternoon: Continue touring the ancient city, visiting the former residences of Yang Luchan and Wu Yuxiang to learn about the origin and development of Tai Chi. Free admission, visit time 1-2 hours.

● Evening: Return to the city and find a hot pot restaurant to enjoy local specialty hot pot. Average cost per person 50-80 RMB.

Day 3: Embracing Natural Beauty

● Morning: Head to Jingniang Lake, surrounded by mountains and water, known as the “Taihang Three Gorges.” You can take a boat tour to enjoy the lake and mountain scenery. Admission (including boat ticket) about 100 RMB, visit time 4-5 hours.

● Noon: Eat at a nearby restaurant in the scenic area and try local wild vegetables and farmhouse dishes. Average cost per person 40-60 RMB.

● Afternoon: Free activities in the scenic area, with options for thrilling entertainment like zip-lining. Entertainment costs vary by activity, visit time 2-3 hours.

● Evening: Return to the city and have some snacks for dinner. Average cost per person 20-30 RMB.

Day 4: Experiencing Red Culture

● Morning: Visit the Jin-Ji-Lu-Yu Martyrs’ Cemetery, one of China’s earliest, largest, and architecturally significant martyrs’ cemeteries. Pay tribute to the martyrs and feel their heroic deeds and patriotism. Free admission, visit time 2-3 hours.

● Noon: Dine at a restaurant near the cemetery, average cost per person 30-50 RMB.

● Afternoon: Pack up and prepare to return. You can buy some Handan specialties in the city, such as Shexian walnuts and Weixian pears, as souvenirs. Costs depend on purchase quantity.

Accommodation Recommendations

● Budget hotels: Hanting Hotel, 7 Days Inn, etc., priced at 150-250 RMB/night.

● Characteristic homestays: Choose a homestay inside Guangfu Ancient City to experience the unique charm of the ancient city, priced at 200-350 RMB/night.

Transportation Guide

● External transportation: Choose plane, train, or long-distance bus to Handan based on your location. Handan has high-speed rail and train stations, making transportation convenient.

● Internal transportation: Within the city, you can take buses, taxis, or use shared bikes. For scenic spots, you can take tourist shuttle buses or charter a car.

Budget Analysis

● Accommodation: For 3 nights in a budget hotel, about 750 RMB.

● Meals: About 150-200 RMB per day, totaling around 800 RMB for 4 days.

● Tickets: Entrance fees and entertainment costs about 300 RMB.

● Transportation: External transportation costs vary; internal transportation about 200 RMB.

● Souvenirs and others: About 500 RMB.

All in all, the total budget is basically controlled within 5,000 RMB, with some leftover for other expenses. Friends, pack your bags quickly and start this wonderful trip to Handan! 😘