Zhengding County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, and transportation options in Zhengding County, China.


Introduction to Zhengding County

Zhengding County is a small county located in the eastern part of Hebei Province, North China, that is steeped in rich history and culture. It was once the capital of the Northern Wei dynasty, a major military and cultural center during the Tang dynasty, and one of the birthplaces of Chinese Buddhism. Today, Zhengding County is a popular tourist destination and home to numerous historical and cultural attractions, such as temples, museums, and ancient city walls. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will give you all the information you need to plan your trip to the county.

List of Places to Visit in Zhengding County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Zhengding Ancient City Wall: Built in the Tang dynasty, the 30-meter-tall Zhengding City Wall stretches for over 8 kilometers around the old town and is well preserved. The wall has seven gates and 24 battlements, providing visitors great views of the ancient town and the surroundings.
  • Xumi Pagoda: This pagoda has 13 floors and was built in 636 AD during the Tang dynasty. It is one of the most important Buddhist pagodas in China and has been designated as a national treasure.
  • Lingxiao Pagoda: Known as the oldest Pagoda in China, Lingxiao Pagoda was built in the 6th century in the Sui dynasty.

Natural Attractions of Zhengding County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Zhaozhou Bridge: Built in the Sui dynasty, this bridge is the oldest stone arch bridge in the world with more than 1,400 years of history. It spans the Jiaohe River that passes through the center of Zhengding County.
  • Taihang Grand Canyon: Known for its rocky terrain and beautiful scenery, Taihang Grand Canyon is the perfect destination for nature lovers. It is located about two hours’ drive from Zhengding County.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zhengding County

  • Xigu Village: Xigu Village is located in the western part of the county, with beautiful natural scenery of mountains, forests, and rivers. You can rent a bike or hike through the village and enjoy the stunning views.

Best Things to Do in Zhengding County: Activities and Tours

  • Shaolin Kung Fu Experience: Shaolin Kung Fu, a type of traditional Chinese martial art, is world-famous. Visitors can experience it firsthand in Zhengding County, where the world-renowned Shaolin Temple is located.
  • Local Villages Tour: Take a local village tour to see how the people in rural areas of North China live.
  • Pagoda Climbing: Zhengding County is home to several beautiful Buddhist pagodas that offer excellent views of the surrounding areas. Visitors can walk up to the top of the pagodas for a scenic view of the town.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zhengding County

Days Activities
Day 1 Arrival, rest
Day 2 Visit Xumi Pagoda, Lingxiao Pagoda, and the Ancient City Wall
Day 3 Hike/bike in Xigu Village
Day 4 Shaolin Kung Fu experience
Day 5 Visit Zhaozhou Bridge and take a local villages tour
Day 6 Climbing temples such as Shaoshi temple, Ci’en temple, Fahua tower.
Day 7 Visit Taihang Grand Canyon or departure

Food and Drink Scene of Zhengding County

Must-Try Dishes

  • Shaobing: A type of traditional Chinese pastry with sesame and bean paste, Shaobing is a popular breakfast food in North China.
  • Baozi: A type of steamed bun with meat or vegetable filling, Baozi is a popular snack in Zhengding County.

Local Beverages

  • Gao Liang: A strong distilled liquor made from sorghum that is popular in North China.
  • Maotai: A famous type of Chinese liquor produced in Maotai town, Guizhou Province.

Where to Stay in Zhengding County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options for travelers in Zhengding County, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Zijing Hotel Zhengding: A luxury hotel in the center of the town with a swimming pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
  • Traveler Inn: A budget-friendly guesthouse close to the Xumi Pagoda and Zhengding City Wall.
  • Zhengding Yuanjia Hostel: A cozy hostel with a traditional Chinese courtyard and a peaceful atmosphere.

What to Buy in Zhengding County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Zhengding Embroidery: A type of traditional Chinese handicraft that is famous for its exquisite embroidery and beautiful patterns.
  • Shaobing and Baozi: Pack a few Shaobing and Baozi for your journey, as these local specialties make great souvenirs and snacks.

Local Culture and Customs of Zhengding County

  • Buddhism: Zhengding County has a long history of Buddhism and is known for its Buddhist temples, pagodas, and traditions.
  • Folk Handicrafts: Zhengding County is known for its handicrafts, such as Zhengding embroidery, paper-carving, and clay figurines.

Best Time to Visit Zhengding County

The best time to visit Zhengding County is from March to November when the weather is warm and pleasant. The summer season can be hot and humid, so it is advisable to bring light and comfortable clothing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zhengding County

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Visit local temples and cultural attractions.
  • Try local food and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people without their permission.
  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting religious sites.
  • Engage in disrespectful behavior toward local customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zhengding County

Zhengding County is a safe destination for travelers. However, it is always advisable to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone at night.

Health in Zhengding County

There are several hospitals and clinics in Zhengding County that cater to the needs of visitors. However, it is advisable to bring travel insurance and necessary medication with you when traveling.

Getting to Zhengding County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Zhengding County

Zhengding County is located about 25 kilometers from Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport (SJW), which operates flights to major cities in China.

Bus Stations Near Zhengding County

There are several bus stations in Zhengding County that operate buses to neighboring cities and towns, such as Shijiazhuang, Baoding, and Beijing.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Zhengding County by train, car, or taxi from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Zhengding County

Visitors can get around Zhengding County by bus, taxi, or bike.

Where to Go Next from Zhengding County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Shijiazhuang: The capital city of Hebei Province, Shijiazhuang is about an hour’s drive from Zhengding County and offers a variety of urban attractions.
  • Beijing: Known for its rich history and cultural landmarks, Beijing is about three hours’ drive from Zhengding County and is a popular destination for international travelers.

Conclusion

Zhengding County offers travelers a unique cultural experience with its rich history, natural beauty, and local customs. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can plan their itinerary to explore this hidden gem in North China.