Things To Do
in Zhangjiakou Shi Xuanhua Qu
Zhangjiakou Shi Xuanhua District sits in northern Hebei at the foothills of the Yanshan mountains. It blends centuries-old streets and preserved city walls with growing modern amenities. The area serves as a quieter gateway to the wider Zhangjiakou region, including easy access to winter sports in Chongli.
Visitors will find hearty northern Chinese flavors, welcoming locals, and scenic views just a short trip from Beijing.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the historic center of Xuanhua, admiring ancient architecture and the city's well-preserved city walls. Visit the Xuanhua Ancient City Museum to learn about the rich history of the region and the significance of its strategic location. Enjoy a traditional Chinese breakfast at a local eatery, sampling dishes like jianbing and soy milk.
In the afternoon, explore the bustling local market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and sample local delicacies. Take a guided tour of the ancient pagodas scattered throughout the area, learning about their significance and unique architectural styles. Wrap up your afternoon at a tea house, sipping on fragrant teas and enjoying the serene environment.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant renowned for its Peking duck and other regional specialties. After dinner, take a walk along the riverfront, where the city lights reflect beautifully on the water, creating a picturesque setting. End your night with a traditional Chinese cultural performance, showcasing local music and dance.
Begin your day with an early drive to Bashang Grassland, where the fresh air and stunning landscapes await. Enjoy a hearty breakfast picnic amidst the picturesque surroundings, surrounded by rolling hills and vast grasslands. Set off on a guided hike to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area, taking in breathtaking views from various vantage points.
After your hike, enjoy a traditional Mongolian lunch in a yurt, where you can taste local specialties like roasted lamb and millet porridge. Spend your afternoon horseback riding across the grassland, experiencing the beauty of the landscape from a unique perspective. Capture the essence of the region with stunning photographs of the iconic scenery and the horses galloping freely.
As the day winds down, return to your accommodation for some relaxation and freshening up. Savor a delicious dinner featuring local ingredients and traditional cooking methods, perhaps trying some homemade yogurt. Conclude your day by stargazing on the grassland, where the lack of light pollution reveals a stunning night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $2-5 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $1-3 |
| 🚎One-way local transport | $0.5-2 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and scenic surroundings
- Close to Beijing and other major destinations
- Affordable food and lodging options
- Good base for winter sports in Chongli
- Language barrier in rural areas
- Limited English signage in some spots
- Smaller tourist infrastructure compared to mega-cities
- "Nǐ hǎo" - Hello
- "Xièxiè" - Thank you
- "Nǐ huì shuō Yīngyǔ ma?" - Do you speak English?
- "Zhège duōshao qián?" - How much is this?
- "Cèsuǒ zài nǎlǐ?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Wǒ yào zhège" - I would like this
- "Qǐng wèn" - Excuse me
- "Hǎochī" - Delicious
Places to Visit in Zhangjiakou Shi Xuanhua Qu
Visit one of these nice places.
An ancient gate and surrounding narrow lanes provide classic northern Chinese architectural frames.
Remnants of the historic city wall along a hillside path with city views.
A riverside vantage point with mountain silhouettes and soft evening light.
Food in Zhangjiakou Shi Xuanhua Qu
Zhangjiakou Shi Xuanhua Qu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Charred, cumin-laced lamb skewers commonly found at night markets around Xuanhua.
Must-Try!
Noodles topped with a thick soybean-based sauce and minced meat, a satisfying staple in northern eateries.
A hearty dish of chicken with potatoes and peppers served on a large plate, widely available in casual restaurants.
Comforting bowl of hand-pulled noodles with tender beef and aromatic spice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market where you can sample street snacks, fresh produce, and regional specialties.
Local market offering prepared foods, noodles, dumplings, and seasonal treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a friendly greeting such as Ni hao, and show respect to elders and hosts.
Offer a toast and wait for elders to start; don't waste food; use chopsticks to pick up pieces modestly.
Keep voices moderate in public; avoid sensitive topics; ask permission before taking photos of people.
Safety
Tipping in Zhangjiakou Shi Xuanhua Qu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most ordinary eateries; rounding up the bill in high-end restaurants or tip-based services is appreciated but not expected.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely used; cash is accepted in most places, card acceptance is limited outside larger cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blossoms. Pack a light jacket and comfortable shoes; occasional southeast winds.
Warm to hot days with possible rain. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan early-morning or evening activities.
Cool, dry air with clear skies and vivid foliage. Great for photography; bring a light jacket for evenings.
Cold and snowy at times; prepare heavy winter gear. Some outdoor spots may be less accessible, but indoor museums are popular.
Zhangjiakou Shi Xuanhua Qu at Night
Hiking in Zhangjiakou Shi Xuanhua Qu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A hillside trail offering forest scenery and city views within a short drive.
Loop hikes through foothill forests and farmland with viewpoints toward the mountains.
A scenic gorge route with stone paths and gentle climbs suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Zhangjiakou Shi Xuanhua Qu by plane.
Major international hub about 2.5-3.5 hours by car/train from Xuanhua; frequent domestic flights and international connections.
Regional hub about 2-3 hours away by road; good for domestic travel and some international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the district and city.
Small populations of minority groups common in Hebei, including migrants and workers in urban areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Winter sport popular in the Zhangjiakou area, especially at Chongli resorts.
Common indoor sports played in community centers and hotels.
Local parks and scenic routes attract runners during festivals and weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhangjiakou Shi Xuanhua Qu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries; ask for vegetable dishes, tofu, and mushrooms; request no meat stock or lard, and confirm ingredients if you have strong dietary restrictions.