Things To Do
in Handan
Handan, located in the southern part of Hebei province, China, is a city with a rich historical background, having been an ancient capital for the Zhao state during the Warring States period. It is an important industrial base in northern China, known for its steel production and heavy industries.
The city also boasts beautiful natural landscapes and cultural relics, such as the Congtai Park and the Handan Museum, reflecting its profound historical and cultural heritage.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Handan Ancient City Wall, a remarkable feat of ancient architecture. Take in the views and snap some photos of this scenic spot.
Head to the Yi's Tombs and delve into the history of the area. The tranquil surroundings make it a great spot for reflection and exploration.
Wrap up your day by enjoying local cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Try the famous Handan fried bread for a unique taste.
Visit Wanxianshan Mountain for a refreshing hike among nature. The crisp morning air and beautiful views will energize you.
Picnic at the mountain base with some local snacks. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and scenic beauty.
As the sun sets, return to the city and stroll through a local night market. Explore various street food options and shop for souvenirs.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical culture and heritage, including ancient sites and traditional architecture.
- Strategically located in Hebei Province, making it convenient for travel to major cities like Beijing and Taiyuan.
- Growing local economy with opportunities in industries such as coal, machinery, and textiles.
- Vibrant local cuisine that attracts food enthusiasts.
- Community-oriented lifestyle with various cultural festivals and events.
- Air pollution and environmental concerns due to industrial activities.
- Traffic congestion in urban areas, particularly during peak hours.
- Limited international exposure and fewer amenities compared to larger cities.
- Less comprehensive public transportation system than in major metropolises.
- Some areas may be less developed in terms of healthcare and educational facilities.
Best Activities in Handan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Guangfu Ancient City with its well-preserved architecture and cultural significance.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as picnicking, hiking, and horseback riding in the beautiful Mashang Grassland.
Hike to the top of Xiangtang Mountain for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Tours
Uncover the best of Handan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Handan
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its beautiful lake, gardens, and scenic views of Handan
Offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes
Provides a picturesque glimpse into history with its ancient architecture and scenic vistas
Food in Handan
Handan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Handan is famous for its delicious jiaozi, which are filled with various combinations of pork, shrimp, and vegetables. You can find excellent jiaozi at Xinyuan Restaurant in the city center.
Must-Try!
This iconic local dish features tender mutton slices served in a rich and flavorful broth. It's a must-try at the popular Shuangfeng Soup House near Congtai Park.
Sibao cake is a traditional Handan delicacy made from glutinous rice flour and sugar. For the best Sibao cake, head to the historic Xue Family's Old Shop located in the Old Town area.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Handan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling night market is a paradise for food lovers, offering an array of local snacks such as lamb skewers, stinky tofu, and grilled squid.
The street is lined with food stalls selling Handan's specialties like crispy pancakes, sesame seed cakes, and fried dough sticks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Handan, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them with appropriate titles and using formal language.
Cultural norms in Handan emphasize the importance of honor and saving face, so it is respectful to avoid causing embarrassment or shame to others in public settings.
Understanding and adhering to local customs and etiquette, such as traditional greetings and dining manners, is essential for showing respect in Handan.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Handan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Handan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Handan, China, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or taxis. However, in some upscale establishments, a service charge may be included in the bill.
Payment in Handan, China is predominantly done in cash, although major credit and debit cards are increasingly being accepted in larger establishments. Mobile payment systems such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely used.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Handan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Handan, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Expect pleasant weather and colorful scenery.
Summer in Handan can be hot and humid. Expect high temperatures and occasional rain showers.
Autumn in Handan offers cool and comfortable weather, with beautiful fall foliage. Expect clear skies and mild temperatures.
Winter in Handan can be cold, with occasional snowfall. Expect chilly weather and the possibility of snow-covered landscapes.
Handan at Night
Hiking in Handan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic mountain area near Handan known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful hiking trails.
Famous for its breathtaking views and challenging trails, ideal for experienced hikers.
Offers a variety of hiking paths with picturesque landscapes and historical sites along the way.
Featuring dense forests and steep trails, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure.
A blend of cultural and natural hiking experiences, with trails that lead through stunning views and historical sites.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Handan through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Handan by plane.
The main airport serving Beijing, located approximately 400 kilometers from Handan.
An international airport that serves Xi'an, located about 600 kilometers from Handan.
Located approximately 300 kilometers from Handan, this airport serves Tianjin and the surrounding region.
The nearest international airport, located roughly 130 kilometers from Handan.
Approximately 800 kilometers from Handan, serving Wuhan and surrounding areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Handan, making up the majority of the population.
Includes various groups such as Hui, Manchu, Miao, and others, constituting a smaller percentage of the population.
The Soul of Handan
Discover the essence of Handan through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Handan, attracting many young players and fans due to local schools and community courts.
Football has a significant following in Handan, with many local teams and leagues promoting the sport among youth and adults.
Table tennis is a widely played sport in Handan, supported by the city's rich history in the sport and numerous clubs and training centers.
Badminton enjoys popularity in Handan, with many recreational players and participation in local competitions.
Martial arts, including Tai Chi and Kung Fu, have a cultural significance in Handan, celebrated through various schools and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Handan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Handan cuisine heavily features meat-based dishes, some restaurants and cafes in the city center offer vegetarian stir-fries, tofu-based dishes, and vegetable soups.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can opt for rice-based dishes such as stir-fried rice noodles or rice congee, which are available at various local eateries.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Handan with these cultural adventures.