Handan

Handan has a history of more than 3,000 years, and its name has never changed. It is also associated with more than 1,500 idioms and historical stories. With its deep historical heritage and affordable prices, Handan is well suited to a three-day, two-night trip to discover this “city of idioms.”

Three-Day, Two-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: Walk around the city and learn about the history of the Zhao capital
  • Morning: After arriving in Handan, visit the Handan Museum. Book in advance to see its key artifacts and learn about the history of Zhao.
  • Afternoon: Start at Congtai Park and climb Wuling Congtai Pavilion. Then visit the Idiom Museum to learn about famous idioms and their cultural background.
  • Evening: Walk along the Handan Road Historical and Cultural District to Xuebu Bridge, sampling local snacks and enjoying the ancient city’s night views.
• Day 2: Visit grottoes and discover Northern Qi art
  • Morning: Drive yourself or hire a car to Fengfeng Mining District to visit the North Xiangtang Grottoes. You can take a sightseeing shuttle and book a guided tour; allow about two to three hours.
  • Afternoon: Continue to the South Xiangtang Grottoes, allowing about one hour. Then visit Heilong Cave to see where the spring water emerges and enjoy the cool surroundings.
  • Evening: Return to the city to rest, or visit a night market for menzi and Guo Ba fire-roasted flatbread.
• Day 3: Follow archaeological traces and experience the ancient city’s tai chi culture
  • Morning: Visit the Northern Dynasties Archaeological Museum in Ci County to see reconstructed mural tombs. Then go to the Ye City Archaeological Museum in Linzhang County to admire Buddhist sculptures.
  • Afternoon: If time allows, cycle around the lake at Guangfu Ancient City in Yongnian District and experience its tai chi culture. You can also go straight to the high-speed railway station for your return journey.

Must-Try Local Foods in Handan

Transportation and Accommodation

• Getting there: By high-speed rail, choose Handan East Station; a taxi takes about 10 to 20 minutes to reach the old city after you leave the station. For regular trains, choose Handan Station, which is closer to the city center.
• Getting around: Attractions in the city are fairly close together, so taxis and shared bikes are both convenient. For destinations outside the city, such as Xiangtang Mountain and the Northern Dynasties Archaeological Museum, you can drive, hire a car, or book a customized express shuttle through the “Heli Chuxing” mini program.
• Where to stay: Consider staying in Congtai District, near Congtai Park or Handan Station. There are plenty of dining options, it is convenient for visiting attractions, and getting to the night market takes less time.

Travel Tips

• Advance reservations: Book the Handan Museum, Idiom Museum, and other venues in advance through their WeChat official accounts. Venues are usually closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
• Grotto guides: When visiting the Xiangtang Mountain Grottoes, consider booking a private guide or joining a shared tour to better understand Northern Qi history and grotto art.
• Sun protection and footwear: Attractions outside the city, including Dongtaixing and the grottoes, involve plenty of walking. Wear comfortable sports shoes and use sun protection.
• Nighttime visits: Before visiting popular sites such as the Handan Museum and North Xiangtang Grottoes during holidays, check whether evening sessions are available. This can help you avoid daytime crowds and enjoy the nighttime lighting.