Hengshui Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Hengshui, top things to do, where to stay and eat, and how to get there in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Hengshui

Hengshui is a city in the southeastern part of Hebei Province in North China. The city has a rich history that dates back to the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC) and is famous for its water conservancy projects and ancient architecture. The cityscape is a mix of modern buildings and traditional structures, making it a unique destination for travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Hengshui

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Hengshui Ancient City

Hengshui Ancient City, also known as Baiyangdian Ancient City, is a well-preserved city from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The city wall is about 2000 meters long and has five gates. A stroll on the wall will give you a panoramic view of the city.

Hengshui Lake Scenic Area

Hengshui Lake is the largest freshwater lake in North China, covering an area of more than 150 square kilometers. It is a beautiful scenic area with crystal-clear water and a variety of fish and birds.

Zhaozhou Bridge

Zhaozhou Bridge, also known as Anji Bridge, is a stone bridge from the Sui Dynasty (581-618). It is the oldest and longest existing stone arch bridge in the world.

Natural Attractions of Hengshui: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nansihu Wetland Park

Nansihu Wetland Park is a natural reserve located on the south side of the Hengshui Lake. A stroll around the park will take you through reed fields and lotus ponds, where you can enjoy birdwatching and take in the serene surroundings.

Baiyangdian Lake

Baiyangdian Lake is another scenic area in Hengshui, known for its vast area of water and waterways. It has over 1400 small islands, with rich aquatic resources that contribute to a thriving fishing industry.

Jingniang Lake

Jingniang Lake is a beautiful artificial lake located in Jingxian County. With a circumference of 30 kilometers, it is an excellent place to enjoy the scenery by cycling, boating or taking a relaxing walk.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hengshui

Xingcheng Scenic Area Hiking Trail

The Xingcheng Scenic Area Hiking Trail is a three-kilometer trail that covers lush woods and grasslands. The trail takes you to the top of a hill where you can enjoy the panoramic views of Hengshui City.

Hengshui City Cycling Route

The Hengshui City Cycling Route is a 20-kilometer route that takes you through the city’s main attractions, including Hengshui Lake and Zhaozhou Bridge.

Best Things to Do in Hengshui: Activities and Tours

Hengshui Water Conservancy Project Tour

The Hengshui Water Conservancy Project Tour takes you through the city’s ancient water supply system, constructed over 2000 years ago. You will get to see the ingenious designs that have supplied water to the city for centuries.

Baiyangdian Lake Fishing Tour

The Baiyangdian Lake Fishing Tour is an exciting activity for fishing enthusiasts. You can experience local fishing methods and catch unique fish species, such as silver carp and bighead carp.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hengshui

Day Activities
1 Hengshui Ancient City
2 Hengshui Lake Scenic Area
3 Nansihu Wetland Park and Baiyangdian Lake
4 Jingniang Lake and Zhaozhou Bridge
5 Xingcheng Scenic Area Hiking Trail
6 Hengshui Water Conservancy Project Tour and local markets
7 Baiyangdian Lake Fishing Tour and local food

Food and Drink Scene of Hengshui

Must-Try Dishes

Hengshui Roast Duck

Hengshui Roast Duck is a famous local dish, similar to the Peking Roast Duck. The roasted duck has crispy skin and tender meat that melts in your mouth.

Shanzha Liquor

Shanzha liquor is a specialty of Hebei Province, made from distilled sorghum and hawthorn. It has a unique flavor with a strong aroma and a hint of sweetness.

Local Beverages

Baiyangdian Green Tea

Baiyangdian Green Tea is a popular tea in Hengshui, infused with the unique taste of local water from the Baiyangdian Lake.

Shanzha Wine

Shanzha Wine is an alcoholic beverage made from distilled sorghum, hawthorn, and oranges. It has a subtle sweetness and a fruity aroma.

Where to Stay in Hengshui: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hengshui has a range of accommodations such as hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the popular options include Pullman Hengshui Lakeside, Yilong International Hotel, and Jinjiang Inn Hengshui Yingbin Road.

What to Buy in Hengshui: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Hebei Embroidery

Hebei embroidery is a traditional needlework art form that involves sewing intricate patterns onto silk or other fabrics. You can find various pieces of Hebei embroidery in local markets and souvenir shops.

Hengshui Jujube

Hengshui Jujube is a famous fruit in the region, known for its sweet and juicy taste. You can find various jujube products such as candy, jam, and tea in local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Hengshui

Hengshui is a city with rich cultural customs and traditions. The locals celebrate various festivals such as the Spring Festival, Lantern Festival, and Mid-Autumn Festival. The city also has a unique folk art form called Yangko, a dance performed during festivals and celebrations.

Best Time to Visit Hengshui

The best time to visit Hengshui is from April to October when the weather is mild and pleasant. However, the city has a unique charm all year round, with cherry blossoms in the spring, lotus flowers in the summer, and snow views in the winter.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hengshui

Do:

  • Try local food and drinks
  • Dress appropriately when visiting temples and historical places
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local culture and customs
  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Take photos without permission from locals or in restricted areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Hengshui

Hengshui is a safe city, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Hengshui

Hengshui has good healthcare facilities, but it’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Drink bottled water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach.

Getting to Hengshui: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hengshui

The nearest airport to Hengshui is Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport, which is about 80 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to Hengshui.

Bus Stations Near Hengshui

Hengshui has two main bus stations, Hengshui Bus Station and Hengshui East Bus Station. Both stations have regular buses to other cities in Hebei Province and neighboring provinces.

Other Options

You can also take a train to Hengshui, with direct trains from Beijing, Shanghai, and other major Chinese cities.

How to Get Around in Hengshui

Hengshui has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and taxis. You can also rent a bike and explore the city’s attractions at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Hengshui: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Beijing

Beijing, the capital city of China, is about 300 kilometers away from Hengshui. You can take a high-speed train or a bus to Beijing and explore the city’s historical sites and modern attractions.

Shanhaiguan

Shanhaiguan is a coastal city known for its Great Wall fortifications and beautiful beaches. It’s about 400 kilometers away from Hengshui and can be reached by train or bus.

Conclusion

Hengshui is a hidden gem in the Hebei Province of North China. With a rich history and beautiful natural landscapes, Hengshui is a unique destination for travelers who want to immerse themselves in Chinese culture and traditions. Explore the city’s iconic landmarks, taste the local cuisine, and enjoy the beautiful scenery on your next trip to Hengshui.