Best Time to Visit Zhangjiakou – A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Zhangjiakou is a picturesque city located in northern China’s Hebei Province. It is a popular tourist destination that boasts of natural beauty, historical attractions, cultural landmarks, and sports tourism. From skiing to hiking to exploring ancient sites, Zhangjiakou has something to offer for every traveler. However, like any other city, Zhangjiakou has its peak and off-peak seasons. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the best time to visit Zhangjiakou.

Climate in Zhangjiakou

Before we dive into the best time to visit Zhangjiakou, let’s first take a look at its climate. Zhangjiakou has a continental monsoon climate, characterized by cold and dry winters and warm and wet summers. The average temperature varies significantly throughout the year, ranging from -10°C (14°F) in January to 23°C (73°F) in July.

Best Time to Visit Zhangjiakou

1. Winter (December – February)The winter months in Zhangjiakou are from December to February, and they are ideal for winter sports enthusiasts. During this time, snowfall is plentiful, and the temperatures can drop to -20°C (-4°F). If you are looking for skiing, ice-skating, or other winter sports, this is the best time to visit Zhangjiakou. Apart from winter sports, you can also enjoy other winter activities such as ice and snow festivals, hot springs, and enjoying a hot pot.2. Spring (March – May)Spring in Zhangjiakou is mild and dry, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities. The temperatures are pleasant, hovering around 10°C-18°C (50°F-64°F). This is a good time to explore the natural beauty of Zhangjiakou by hiking, camping, and biking. Moreover, the city’s most famous attraction, the Bashang Grasslands, boasts of vibrant and colorful flowers that bloom in spring.3. Summer (June – August)Summer in Zhangjiakou is hot, humid, and wet, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C-24°C (68°F-75°F). Although the weather can be intense, visitors can still enjoy the natural beauty of Zhangjiakou. You can hike in mountainous areas during the day and explore the city’s nightlife in the evenings. The international paragliding festival is also held in Zhangjiakou at this time of the year.4. Autumn (September – November)Autumn is perhaps the most pleasant time to visit Zhangjiakou. The weather is mild, and the temperatures range from 10°C-20°C (50°F-68°F). Autumn brings with it the magnificent flaming red leaves to the Bashang Grasslands, which is a spectacle to see. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s traditional festivals such as the National Hunting Festival, the Kite Festival, and the Mountain Festival.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best time to visit Zhangjiakou depends on the activities you plan on doing and the weather you prefer. If you are into winter sports, visit in December to February. If you prefer pleasant weather and outdoor activities like hiking and biking, spring and autumn are ideal. Summer is the hottest time when you can enjoy the nightlife and paragliding festival. Regardless of when you decide to visit Zhangjiakou, this travel destination is sure to leave you awestruck with its natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture.

Insider’s Guide to Zhangjiakou: An Overview

Located in the Hebei province of China, Zhangjiakou is a charming city with a deep history. Known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and architectural heritage, Zhangjiakou is rapidly emerging as a popular tourist destination. With the city’s unique blend of ancient and modern attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide to Zhangjiakou to help you plan your visit.

Best Time to Visit Zhangjiakou

The best time to visit Zhangjiakou is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons when the weather is pleasant, and the natural vistas are at their best. If you visit during winter (December to February), you can enjoy skiing and winter sports, but be prepared for the cold temperatures.

Local Attractions

Zhangjiakou is home to a plethora of attractions that will leave you in awe. Here are a few must-visit attractions that should be on your itinerary:

• Chongli Ski Resort: Nestled amidst the Taihang Mountains, Chongli Ski Resort is one of the most popular winter destinations in China. You can enjoy skiing, snowmobiling, and many other winter sports here.
• Bashang Grasslands: This vast stretch of grasslands is breathtakingly beautiful. It is also home to the Mongolian ethnic community, famous for their nomadic lifestyle and their unique culture.
• Wanlong Ski Resort: Another ski resort that’s great for winter sports enthusiasts, Wanlong Ski Resort boasts of modern facilities, a wide variety of skiing trails, and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.
• Xuanhua Ancient City: This historic city, located in the east of Zhangjiakou, has a rich cultural and architectural heritage. The city walls, ancient temples, and traditional courtyard houses all offer a glimpse into the city’s ancient past.

Dining Spots

Zhangjiakou is well-known for its mouth-watering cuisine, which is unique to the region. Here are a few dining spots that you should try out:

• Roast Lamb: Located in the Xinhua Road area, this restaurant is known for its delicious roast lamb. The meat is cooked to perfection and served with a host of sides and sauces.
• Sunbeam Korean Restaurant: If you’re in the mood for Korean cuisine, this restaurant located in the Luyuan district is a must-visit. The grilled beef and kimchi stew are popular dishes.
• Zhangyuan Japanese Restaurant: If you’re looking for some Japanese cuisine, this restaurant in the Qiaoxi district serves authentic Japanese food. The sushi, sashimi, and barbecue dishes are highly recommended.
• Liuhe Pancake: This is a local breakfast staple and a must-try food item. These savoury pancakes are made with a combination of mung bean flour and wheat flour and stuffed with various fillings like pork, beef, or vegetables.

Cultural Experiences

Zhangjiakou has a unique culture that is deeply ingrained in its history. Here are a few cultural experiences that you shouldn’t miss when visiting the city:

• Folk Customs Museum: Located in Zhangjiakou’s Chongli district, this museum showcases the local costumes, art, and handicrafts of the region and is a must-visit for anyone interested in local culture.
• Horseback Riding: One of the most exciting and unique cultural experiences in Zhangjiakou is horseback riding! Experience life like a nomad and explore the vast grasslands on horseback.
• Mongolian Yurt Experience: Staying in a Mongolian yurt on the Bashang grasslands is a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you can immerse yourself in the culture of the Mongolian ethnic community.

Local History

Zhangjiakou has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Here are a few places where you can get a glimpse into the city’s history:

• Wulate Ancient City: This city, located in the Mulan Grassland area, dates back over 2000 years. The ancient architecture and artefacts in this city offer valuable insights into the city’s history.
• Yulong Lake: This scenic lake is located in the west of Zhangjiakou and has a history dating back to the Qing Dynasty.
• Natural History Museum: This museum houses a vast collection of natural treasures from the region, including fossils, minerals, and scientific specimens.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’ve checked off all the popular tourist destinations, here are a few suggestions to explore off the beaten path:

• Zhangbei Grassland: This picturesque grassland is located in the north of Zhangjiakou and is a quieter, lesser-known alternative to the Bashang grasslands.
• Mopanshan Ski Resort: This ski resort is located in Chongli and offers skiing trails that are less crowded than other popular ski resorts.
• Wanlong Paradise: This outdoor recreation area located near Wanlong Ski Resort is a perfect getaway spot for families. There’s ample space for outdoor activities and relaxation while surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Taihang Mountains.

Conclusion

Zhangjiakou may not be as well-known as other major cities in China, but it’s a hidden gem that’s waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, Zhangjiakou has something to offer. Plan your next trip to Zhangjiakou to explore this charming city and make unforgettable memories!