The Ultimate Guide to Zhangjiakou: Answering Your Most Frequently Asked Questions

Located in the northern part of Hebei province, China, Zhangjiakou is a growing city rich in culture, history, and outdoor activities. Known as the co-host city for the 2022 Winter Olympics with Beijing, Zhangjiakou has become increasingly popular among travelers seeking adventure and new experiences. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Zhangjiakou.

What is the Best Time to Visit Zhangjiakou?

The best time to visit Zhangjiakou is from December to February when the snow season begins. The climate in Zhangjiakou is temperate continental, with hot summers and dry, cold winters. During the winter months, temperatures can drop to as low as -20°C. Therefore, if you plan to go skiing, you should bring appropriate winter clothing to stay warm.

How Do I Get to Zhangjiakou?

Zhangjiakou is easily accessible by train or by bus from Beijing. There are several high-speed trains available from Beijing to Zhangjiakou which take approximately 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Beijing to Zhangjiakou, which takes about 4 hours. Zhangjiakou is also accessible by plane, with direct flights from major cities such as Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen.

What are the Top Attractions in Zhangjiakou?

Zhangjiakou is known for its outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. The top attractions include:1. Chongli Ski Resort: Located in Chongli district, the Chongli Ski Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in Asia, with over 50 kilometers of slopes.2. Bashang Grasslands: The Bashang Grasslands are vast open plains surrounded by mountains and rivers. Tourists can ride horses or camels and stay at a yurt to experience the local culture.3. Zhangjiakou Taizi River: The Taizi River is a scenic area where visitors can hike, take a boat ride, or enjoy fishing.

What is the Cuisine in Zhangjiakou?

Zhangjiakou cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes. Some of the most popular dishes include:1. Zhangjiakou Roast Duck: Similar to Peking duck, Zhangjiakou roast duck is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.2. Zhangjiakou Buckwheat Noodles: Buckwheat noodles are a staple food in Zhangjiakou, and are often served with meat and vegetables.3. Steamed Stuffed Buns: Steamed stuffed buns are a popular breakfast food in Zhangjiakou, filled with pork, vegetables, or sweet bean paste.

What is the Culture of Zhangjiakou?

Zhangjiakou has a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of ethnic minorities including Mongolians, Manchus, Hui, and Koreans. Local festivals such as the Bashang Grasslands Horse Racing Festival and the Guandi Temple Fair showcase the traditions and customs of the region. Zhangjiakou is also known for its handicrafts such as woolen blankets, porcelain, and carved jade.

What is the Weather Like in Zhangjiakou?

The climate in Zhangjiakou is temperate continental, with hot summers and dry, cold winters. During the winter months, temperatures can drop to as low as -20°C, while the summer months can see temperatures rise to 30°C. It is best to bring appropriate clothing and sun protection when visiting Zhangjiakou.

Conclusion

Zhangjiakou is a vibrant and cultural city with a diverse range of attractions, outdoor activities, cuisine, and culture. Whether you are seeking adventure, or looking to immerse yourself in traditional Chinese culture, Zhangjiakou has something to offer. We hope this guide has answered all of your questions and helped you plan your next trip to Zhangjiakou.

The Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Zhangjiakou

Welcome to Zhangjiakou, a city that is often referred to as the “Gateway city to Beijing”! This bustling city is located in the northwestern part of Hebei Province and is surrounded by mountains, lakes, and beautiful landscapes. While Zhangjiakou has its fair share of famous tourist destinations, it also has several lesser-known spots and hidden gems that only locals can show you. In this guide, you will find top-notch insider information to make your trip to Zhangjiakou a memorable one!

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems Only Locals Know

While Zhangjiakou boasts some popular attractions like Zhangbei Grassland and Shuiquangou Forest Park, there are also several hidden gems that only locals know. One such place is Guyuan Ancient City, located about 12 kilometers north of Zhangjiakou. Guyuan Ancient City dates back to the Western Han Dynasty and holds a wealth of history and culture.

Another must-visit spot is Xuanhua Old Town, located about 15 kilometers southwest of the city. This ancient town dates back to the Ming Dynasty and is one of the best-preserved ancient towns in Hebei Province. The Xuanhua Old Town is a beautiful maze of narrow streets, alleys, and historical brick buildings, where you can experience the ancient lifestyle of Zhangjiakou.

Dining spots: Exploring the City’s Unique Cuisine

If you are a foodie, then Zhangjiakou is the place to be! The local cuisine is a blend of traditional Beijing cuisine and ethnic minority cuisine. One of the most famous local dishes is the Zhangjiakou Roast Lamb. The lamb is roasted to perfection on a spit and served with various dips and sauces. You can try this dish at the popular Xiwang Roast Lamb Restaurant.

Another must-try is the Guyuan Ancient City Bean Curd. Guyuan Ancient City Bean Curd is a traditional tofu dish that originated in Guyuan Ancient City. The tofu is made by grinding soybeans and then boiled over charcoal fires. It is served with a special sauce made of fermented bean paste, soy sauce, and spices.

Cultural Experiences: Finding Zhangjiakou’s Traditions, Festivals, Art, and Music

If you want to get a flavor of the local culture, then you can attend the Zhangjiakou International Kite Festival. The festival takes place every year in the Shuiquangou Forest Park and attracts kite enthusiasts from around the world. You can see a variety of kites that range from the traditional Chinese kite to more innovative ones.

Another cultural experience that you cannot miss is watching the performance of the Zhangjiakou Drum Team. The Zhangjiakou Drum Team is a local folk troupe that showcases traditional Chinese drumming and is known for their unique drumming style.

Local History: Stories from Zhangjiakou’s Fascinating Past

One of the most significant historical landmarks in Zhangjiakou is the Xuanhua Gang City. It is the best preserved ancient city of the Ming Dynasty. Xuanhua Gang City played a critical role during the Ming Dynasty due to its strategic location and was a transportation hub that connected the northern and southern parts of China.

Another fascinating historical site is the Zhangjiakou Great Wall. The Zhangjiakou Great Wall is a part of the Northern Great Wall and is located on the border between Hebei Province and Inner Mongolia. It was built during the Ming Dynasty and spans a length of about 1130 kilometers.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions: Memorable and Unique Experiences

One of the unique experiences you can have in Zhangjiakou is to visit the Bashang Grassland. Bashang Grassland is a vast expanse of rolling hills and greenery that is located about 150 kilometers from the city. The grassland is home to several traditional Mongolian yurts where you can spend the night and experience the local lifestyle.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is to visit the Jingtai Ice Cave. The Jingtai Ice Cave is a natural ice cave located below the Jingtai Mountain. The cave remains frozen throughout the year. You can see some striking ice formations in the cave and experience a temperature that drops to minus 20 degrees Celsius.

In conclusion, Zhangjiakou has something for everyone. Whether you are a history buff, foodie or adventure enthusiast, this city has something to offer. We hope this insider’s guide helps you explore Zhangjiakou beyond the typical tourist destinations and have an unforgettable trip.