Things To Do
in Zhaozhou
Zhaozhou is a historic county-level city in Hebei Province, famed for the Anji Bridge, one of the oldest stone arch bridges in China. It sits on the Jiangsu plain northwest of Shijiazhuang, where centuries-old lanes meet active market streets and rural landscapes. The town preserves traditional crafts, simple northern Chinese flavors, and a laid-back pace that invites day-trippers and culture seekers.
A visit blends architectural heritage, countryside scenery, and approachable cuisine into a compact, memorable experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down in Zhaozhou and feel the gentle river breeze as you step out of the station. The sunrise light glistens off the tranquil Heze River, guiding your feet along a riverside walkway. Local vendors begin setting up stalls, offering tea and snacks to greet the morning.
Explore the blocks of the old town and taste a signature bowl of zhaozhou noodle soup in a family-run eatery. Wander through bustling street markets to browse handmade rice cakes and handcrafted lanterns. The city’s rich history whispers through the narrow alleys and ornate doorways as you shop for souvenirs.
Embark on a sunset boat ride under historic bridges as the fading light paints the water in hues of gold and crimson. Lanterns flicker to life along the riverbanks, and street musicians serenade passersby. Cap off your evening sampling sweet osmanthus cakes by the water, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Stand on the legendary Anji Bridge, the world’s oldest open-spandrel stone arch bridge, as dawn breaks. Trace the intricate stone carvings that have withstood 1,400 years of history, feeling each groove under your fingertips. A local historian recounts tales of ancient engineers and the bridge’s enduring legacy.
Descend to the riverbank for a closer inspection of the bridge’s foundation, observing the subtle curvature that distributes enormous weight. Join a hands-on stone carving demonstration, learning traditional techniques passed down through generations. Sample herbal teas infused with lotus petals in a riverside pavilion.
Return after dusk to witness the bridge bathed in ambient lights, its arches mirrored perfectly in the calm water. Local storytellers gather to share legends of emperors and pilgrims who crossed these stones long ago. Immerse yourself in folk songs that echo between river’s banks as crickets begin their nightly chorus.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 💧Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.50-1.00 |
| 🥟Snack or street food item | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🍺Local beer | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical site with the Anji Bridge
- Compact town center perfect for a short visit
- Friendly locals and approachable northern cuisine
- Limited nightlife and large-scale tourist infrastructure
- Rural areas may have limited English signage
- Weather can be hot in summer and cold in winter
- "Hello" - 你好 (Nǐ hǎo)
- "Thank you" - 谢谢 (Xièxiè)
- "Good morning" - 早上好 (Zǎo shàng hǎo)
- "How much is this?" - 这个多少钱？(Zhège duōshǎo qián?)
- "Where is the bathroom?" - 洗手间在哪儿？(Xǐshǒujiān zài nǎ'er?)
Places to Visit in Zhaozhou
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic stone arch bridge with centuries of history; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots with reflection in surrounding water.
A well-preserved historic entrance with traditional lintels and stonework; great for composition with alleyways and street life.
Cobbled lanes, market stalls, and locals in daily life provide candid photo opportunities, especially during dusk.
Quiet canal corners and riverside pavilions offer serene reflections and classic northern China scenery.
Food in Zhaozhou
Zhaozhou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A street-food staple found at night markets and along market lanes; flavorful, smoky and best enjoyed hot off the grill.
Must-Try!
A comforting bowl with braised beef, wheat noodles, and a savory broth; popular in local eateries.
A simple, hearty northern dish featuring crisp potatoes and peppers in a soy-garlic sauce.
Thick, chewy noodles tossed with a meaty, savory sauce; commonly found in casual noodle shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning and evening market with fresh produce, steamed buns, fried snacks, and soups; great for a quick bite and photo opportunities.
A line of affordable street stalls offering crisp fried dough, dumplings, skewers, and soy-based street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite nod or light handshake is common; address elders with courtesy titles and avoid loud talk in sacred or historical sites.
Lines are expected at markets and entrances; wait your turn patiently and keep voices down in crowded spaces.
communal dishes are common; use utensils to serve yourself from shared plates and avoid resting chopsticks upright in a bowl.
Safety
Tipping in Zhaozhou
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not common in everyday service in Zhaozhou; rounding up is appreciated in higher-end or clearly service-oriented settings.
Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are ubiquitous for most purchases, including small street stalls and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with fresh greenery; carry a light jacket for cooler mornings and occasional rain.
Hot and humid with afternoon showers possible. Stay hydrated and wear sun protection; outdoor activities are best in the morning or late afternoon.
Comfortable, dry weather and harvest scenery. Ideal for photography and walking tours.
Cold with possible frost; plan for warm layers and indoor breaks in museums or teahouses.
Zhaozhou at Night
Hiking in Zhaozhou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy to moderate hikes through farmland with viewpoints over the plains.
Shaded routes along tree-lined streams and quiet villages; suitable for half-day excursions.
Airports
How to reach Zhaozhou by plane.
Closest major airport to Zhaozhou; about 60-90 minutes by road depending on traffic. Domestic flights with some international connections.
Approximately 260-320 kilometers away; easy access via high-speed rail or highway to Shijiazhuang before continuing to Zhaozhou.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The overwhelming majority of residents.
Small populations including Hui and other groups in some pockets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, community centers, and parks.
Popular in gyms and outdoor courts; casual pickup games common.
Common in community clubs and school facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zhaozhou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are commonly available in most eateries. Request '荤素分开' (hūn sù fēnkāi) to separate meat and vegetables, and opt for tofu-based dishes, vegetables, mushrooms, and egg-based options when in doubt.