Things To Do
in Baoding
Baoding is a historic city in Hebei province, known as the “Garden City” for its numerous parks and lush landscapes. It boasts over 3,000 years of history, with ancient temples, tombs, and imperial academies scattered throughout. The city sits in the heart of the North China Plain, offering easy access to Beijing and neighboring attractions like Baiyangdian Lake.
In recent years Baoding has balanced rapid development with preservation of its rich cultural heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Rise early to wander among misty lotus blooms at the sprawling pond, watching fishermen cast nets along ancient willows. The still water mirrors pink petals and traditional pavilions, offering perfect tranquility before the crowds arrive. Local vendors begin setting up stands, filling the air with the scent of freshly steamed buns and jasmine tea.
Stroll along stone bridges and through winding corridors to discover hidden shrines and centuries-old inscriptions. Sample local snacks, such as fried chestnuts and sugar-coated hawthorn, from friendly street sellers beneath the shade of willow trees. Pause at a lakeside teahouse to sip pu-erh while listening to gentle koto music drifting across the water.
Return to the pond at sunset when the golden light bathes the lotus petals in a warm glow. Lanterns illuminated along the pathways create a fairytale atmosphere perfect for an evening stroll or photography session. End the night with a riverside dinner of braised carp and stir-fried river snails under softly glowing paper lanterns.
Begin at Daci Pavilion, admiring its ornately carved eaves and vibrant temple murals as morning light filters through ancient cypress trees. Local monks chant in serene tones, creating a meditative ambiance that envelopes the courtyard. Participate in a short calligraphy lesson offered by resident scholars to practice writing elegant Chinese characters.
Move on to the nearby Wenyuan Pavilion, once a favored retreat for Qing dynasty literati, and explore its tranquil gardens filled with bamboo groves. Enjoy a traditional scholar’s lunch of cold noodles with sesame paste while seated on a stone bench overlooking a calm koi pond. Listen to a local guide recount tales of emperors and poets who once composed verses here.
As dusk falls, lanterns illuminate the pavilion walkways, casting dancing shadows on ancient bricks. Savor a light vegetarian dinner at a nearby teahouse, featuring seasonal mountain vegetables and fragrant jasmine rice. Conclude the day with a leisurely stroll through the adjacent temple square, where locals practice tai chi under the moonlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $2-4 |
| 🍺Local beer (0.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi start (3 km) | $2-3 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel (per night) | $30-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural sites
- Affordable prices compared to major cities
- Summer humidity can be intense
- Limited English signage outside tourist spots
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "多少钱？" - How much is it?
- "去……怎么走？" - How do I get to …?
Places to Visit in Baoding
Visit one of these nice places.
Photograph lotus blossoms framing traditional pavilions, especially at sunrise.
Capture panoramic shots of Baoding and the surrounding plains from the temple overlook.
Evening reflections of city lights on water make for dramatic images.
Food in Baoding
Baoding Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flaky flatbread stuffed with tender, slow-braised donkey meat—find it at street stalls around the ancient city center.
Must-Try!
Large, fluffy buns filled with pork or vegetable mix—try them at Tianjia Steamed Bun Shop near People’s Park.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling after dark, offering skewers, Jianbing crepes, and warm sugar-coated haw flakes.
Vendors sell fresh dumplings, noodle soups, and regional produce—ideal for a local breakfast experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A slight nod or handshake is sufficient; formal titles (Mr./Ms.) followed by surname show respect.
Offer seats to elderly passengers on public transport and address seniors before speaking.
Present gifts with both hands; avoid clocks or umbrellas as they symbolize bad luck.
Safety
Tipping in Baoding
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in mainland China; small change may be left for exceptional service in upscale hotels.
Mobile payments via WeChat Pay and Alipay are ubiquitous; carry some cash (CNY) for markets without QR codes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cherry and peach blossoms bloom; temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C with occasional rain.
Hot and humid (25°C–35°C); afternoon thunderstorms are common—stay hydrated.
Mild and dry (15°C–25°C) with clear skies—ideal for outdoor sightseeing.
Cold and dry (−5°C to 5°C) with occasional snow; pack warm clothing.
Baoding at Night
Hiking in Baoding
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic canyon path with waterfalls and rock formations 30 km north of Baoding.
About 100 km west, offering dense pines, streams, and well-marked hiking trails.
Airports
How to reach Baoding by plane.
Approximately 180 km away; 2.5–3 hour drive or train to Baoding East Station.
About 150 km south; airport shuttle bus and high-speed rail connect to Baoding in 1.5–2 hours.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Make up over 95% of the population, deeply rooted in local customs.
Small Muslim community, known for halal eateries and cultural festivals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Community centers and parks often have free tables for casual play.
Indoor courts are common in sports complexes and clubhouses.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Baoding.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Plenty of noodle soups and vegetable dumplings are available; inform vendors to omit meat broths.
A small Hui community runs halal eateries near the south bus station—look for the crescent moon sign.