Things To Do
in Xingtai

Xingtai, located in Hebei province, China, is a city rich in history and culture, with origins tracing back over 2,500 years. Known for its beautiful landscapes and historical sites, Xingtai offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Chinese life. The city is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Taihang Mountains, providing various outdoor activities.

It serves as a hub for cultural exchange and features a mix of modern and traditional Chinese architecture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Xingtai Ancient City Wall, where you can stroll along the well-preserved ramparts and take in panoramic views of the city. Afterward, head to the nearby Confucius Temple, a serene place that showcases traditional Chinese architecture and offers insight into Confucian teachings. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, sampling local specialties like steamed buns and soy milk.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, wander through the bustling streets of the historic center, exploring quaint shops and local markets filled with unique handicrafts. Visit the Xingtai Museum to learn about the region's rich history, featuring artifacts from various dynasties. Take a leisurely break at a nearby teahouse, sipping on fragrant Chinese tea while interacting with locals.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a restaurant specializing in Hebei cuisine, trying dishes like braised pork and stir-fried vegetables. After dinner, take a stroll to the vibrant night market where you can immerse yourself in the local culture, sampling street food and shopping for souvenirs. Conclude your evening watching street performances that showcase traditional music and dance.

day 2
Nature and Scenic Beauty
morning
:

Begin your day with a trip to the majestic Mount Wang, where you can hike through lush forests and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy at a scenic spot along the hiking trail, surrounded by nature’s tranquility. Spend time photographing the unique rock formations and diverse flora along the way.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the nearby Wangyue Pagoda, an ancient structure that offers insight into the region's architectural history. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park area, relishing the fresh air and natural beauty. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby lakes, where you can rent a paddle boat and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

evening
:

As evening approaches, head back to Xingtai and indulge in a delightful dinner featuring fresh fish from the lakes and local vegetables. After dinner, take a relaxing walk around the lakeside park, watching the sunset reflect on the water. End your day with a visit to a local karaoke bar, where you can sing your heart out with friends or fellow travelers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10
🚌Public transportation ticket$0.50
🏨One-night stay in a budget hotel$25
Coffee at a café$3
🍜Bowl of noodles$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with many historical sites and natural beauty.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger Chinese cities.
  • Limited English proficiency among locals may pose communication challenges.
  • Less developed tourist infrastructure compared to larger cities.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Xingtai

Visit one of these nice places.

Taihang Mountain Range

A stunning backdrop for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset, with views of vast valleys and rugged cliffs.

Ancient City Walls

Well-preserved walls offer a glimpse into the city's past and excellent photography angles.

Culinary Guide

Food in Xingtai

Xingtai's local cuisine is a splendid representation of traditional Huabei (North China) flavors, emphasizing wheat-based dishes and savory flavors.

Xingtai Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Xingtai Noodles

These hand-pulled noodles are a local specialty and can be found in various small eateries.

Must-Try!

Jiaozi (Dumplings)

A traditional staple, best enjoyed during local festivals and gatherings, typically filled with pork and vegetables.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Xingtai Night Market

A bustling market offering street food delicacies like stinky tofu, fried corn, and skewered meats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Xingtai has a temperate continental climate, with hot summers and chilly winters. Average temperatures range from 0°C in winter to about 30°C in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals; it is customary to allow them to go first in social settings.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice.

Safety Guide

Safety

Xingtai is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. It is advisable to stay vigilant and take standard safety precautions, especially when exploring at night.

Tipping in Xingtai

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in China, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in service industries.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, but cash and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are more common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, ideal for outdoor exploring.

Summer

Summer can be hot and humid, so be prepared for high temperatures and occasional rains.

Autumn

Autumn provides comfortable weather and beautiful fall colors, a perfect time for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winter can be cold with potential snowfall; dress warmly and be ready for indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Xingtai at Night

Xingtai features a moderate nightlife scene with local bars, KTV (karaoke), and tea houses providing entertainment options late into the evening.

Hiking in Xingtai

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Taihang Mountain Trails

Offers various hiking routes ranging from easy to challenging, showcasing the scenic beauty of the mountains.

Airports

How to reach Xingtai by plane.

Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport

Approximately 70 km from Xingtai, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections. Public transport and taxis are available to reach the city.

Getting Around

Walkability

Xingtai is relatively walkable, with many attractions within walking distance in the city center, though some areas may require transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Xingtai, comprising about 95% of the population, known for its rich traditions and cultural practices.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Table Tennis

This is a widely practiced sport in Xingtai, with many locals playing in parks and sports facilities.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be congested during peak hours, but public transportation options, including buses and taxis, are readily available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Xingtai.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While meat is prevalent in much of Chinese cuisine, you can find vegetarian-friendly options in most restaurants, especially in larger urban areas.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Xingtai are adequate but can be basic compared to larger urban centers. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide