Zhangjiakou Travel Guide

Looking to explore Zhangjiakou? Check out our comprehensive travel guide featuring things to do, places to visit, food and drink scenes, as well as local customs and safety tips.


Introduction to Zhangjiakou

Located in Hebei, North China, Zhangjiakou has quickly become a popular destination for tourists with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. The city is also known as the site of the 2022 Winter Olympic Games, and it has undergone major renovations and improvements to accommodate the events.

If you’re planning a trip to China, make sure to take a few days to explore this charming city. In this guide, we’ll highlight the best places to visit, the must-try foods, the best hiking and biking routes, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Zhangjiakou

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you want to learn about the history and culture of the city, visit these museums and historical sites:

  • Zhangjiakou Museum: This museum showcases the history and traditions of the city, including its role as a trade hub and its unique cuisine.
  • Bashang Grasslands: These picturesque grasslands are a popular destination for visitors. You can ride horses or camels, camp out under the stars, or explore the local villages.
  • Wu Lingyuan Scenic Area: This area boasts stunning natural scenery, including mountains, forests, and waterfalls.

Natural Attractions of Zhangjiakou: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you enjoy outdoor adventures and scenic views, these attractions are not to be missed:

  • Taizicheng Scenic Area: This area is home to the famous Taizi Mountain, which is known for its stunning views and hiking trails.
  • Yunding Ski Resort: Located in the mountains, this resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
  • Hongshagang National Forest Park: This park features a vast forest, clear lakes, and rolling hills. You can hike, bike, or take a boat ride to explore the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zhangjiakou

Zhangjiakou is home to numerous hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the local scenery. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • Hailuogou Hiking Trail: This trail is located in the Hailuogou Glacier Park and boasts incredible views of the glaciers. It’s a strenuous hike but one that is well worth the effort.
  • Beijing-Zhangjiakou Great Wall Hiking Trail: This trail follows the Great Wall and provides spectacular views of the countryside. It’s a popular choice for hikers and adventurous travelers.
  • Chongli Skiing Trail: This trail is open year-round and offers both hiking and biking options. It’s located in the Chongli Ski Resort area and is a favorite of outdoor enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Zhangjiakou: Activities and Tours

There’s plenty to do in Zhangjiakou. Here are a few of the best activities and tours:

  • Tasting Traditional Chinese Cuisine: The city is famous for its traditional dishes such as Yanjiao Baked Pancake and Zhangjiakou Fried Noodles. Join a food tour to get a taste of these delicious dishes.
  • Skiing in Chongli Ski Resort: Chongli Ski Resort is open year-round and offers both skiing and snowboarding options.
  • Exploring the Bashang Grasslands: You can take a guided tour or rent a bike to explore the vast grasslands of Bashang. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zhangjiakou

If you’re planning on spending a week in Zhangjiakou, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Zhangjiakou Museum and explore the city center
2 Take a guided food tour and taste the traditional cuisine
3 Hike Taizi Mountain and take in the stunning views
4 Ski in Chongli Ski Resort
5 Explore the Bashang Grasslands and its local villages
6 Bike through the Hongshagang National Forest Park
7 Visit the Wu Lingyuan Scenic Area and hike the trails

Food and Drink Scene of Zhangjiakou

Must-Try Dishes

Food plays a crucial role in the culture of Zhangjiakou, and there are plenty of delicious dishes to try. Here are a few of the must-try dishes:

  • Yanjiao Baked Pancake: This dish is made from flour and water, and it is filled with meat, eggs, vegetables, and spices.
  • Zhangjiakou Fried Noodles: Zhangjiakou Fried Noodles are made from handmade noodles and served with meat, vegetables, and spices.
  • Roast Lamb: The lamb is roasted over an open fire and served with a variety of vegetables and spices. It’s a popular dish in Zhangjiakou and is often served at large gatherings.

Local Beverages

Apart from the food, Zhangjiakou is also famous for its local beverages. Here are a few to try:

  • Yanqing Grape Wine: This wine is made from grapes grown in the Yanqing area of Zhangjiakou. It has a sweet taste and is commonly served at local restaurants.
  • Bashang Rice Wine: This wine is made from fermented rice and is a popular drink for locals.

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

There are plenty of options for where to stay in Zhangjiakou. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Holiday Inn Express Zhangjiakou Park View: This hotel is located in the city center and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
  • Mountain Inn, Chongli: This cozy inn is located in the Chongli Ski Resort area and offers easy access to the slopes.
  • Zhongdu Hotel Zhangjiakou: This hotel is located near the train station and offers affordable rooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.

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

Zhangjiakou is famous for its handicrafts and local products. Here are a few things to consider bringing home:

  • Woolen Products: Zhangjiakou is known for its woolen products, including clothing, blankets, and other items.
  • Jade and Agate Jewelry: The jewelry in Zhangjiakou is made from locally sourced jade and agate and is considered high quality.
  • Tea: Zhangjiakou is famous for its tea, including Yixian Black Tea and Fengning Dahongpao Tea.

Local Culture and Customs of Zhangjiakou

When traveling to Zhangjiakou, it’s essential to learn about local customs and culture. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Respect for Elders and Authority Figures: In Chinese culture, respect for elders and authority figures is crucial. Always show deference and respect to older individuals and those in positions of authority.
  • Gift Giving: Gift-giving is an essential part of Chinese culture, and it is often used to build relationships and show appreciation. If visiting someone’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift.
  • Cultural Festivals: Zhangjiakou is known for its many cultural festivals, including the Mazu Temple Fair and the Ice and Snow Festival. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience local customs and culture.

Best Time to Visit Zhangjiakou

The best time to visit Zhangjiakou depends on your interests. If you want to enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and skiing, visit during the winter months (November to February). If you prefer milder weather, consider visiting in the fall or spring.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zhangjiakou

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly and appropriately.
  • Learn basic Mandarin Chinese phrases.

Don’t:

  • Touch someone’s head without their permission.
  • Point your finger at someone.
  • Bargain aggressively with street vendors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zhangjiakou

Zhangjiakou is a safe city, but it’s essential to be cautious when traveling in any foreign destination. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Keep your valuables secure.
  • Stay in well-lit areas at night.
  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in Zhangjiakou

Zhangjiakou is a relatively healthy city, but it’s essential to take basic health precautions. Here are a few tips:

  • Drink bottled or boiled water.
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Get vaccinated before traveling, if necessary.

Getting to Zhangjiakou: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Zhangjiakou

  • Beijing Capital International Airport: Beijing Capital International Airport is the nearest airport to Zhangjiakou, located about 200 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Zhangjiakou

  • Zhangjiakou Central Bus Station: This bus station is located in the city center and offers routes to nearby destinations.

Other Options

If you prefer to travel by train, there are several options available. The Beijing-Zhangjiakou high-speed railway is set to open in 2020. It will provide fast and efficient transportation between Beijing and Zhangjiakou.

How to Get Around in Zhangjiakou

Zhangjiakou has a robust public transportation system, including buses and taxis. However, if you want more flexibility, consider renting a bicycle, car, or motorbike.

Where to Go Next from Zhangjiakou: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of China, here are a few nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Beijing: Just a few hours away from Zhangjiakou, Beijing is one of the most famous destinations in China, and it’s home to famous attractions such as the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.
  • Chengde: Located in the Hebei province, Chengde is known for its famous mountain resort and impressive historical sites.
  • Datong: A few hours northwest of Zhangjiakou, Datong is known for its ancient temples and stunning architecture.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or delicious cuisine, Zhangjiakou has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide highlights the best places to visit, things to do, and local customs and safety tips to help you plan the perfect trip to Zhangjiakou.