Shijiazhuang

Shijiazhuang, a city hailed as "the city brought by trains," may be perceived by many as merely a transportation hub in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. However, from Xootour's in-depth exploration perspective, Shijiazhuang is far more than that. It is a vibrant modern metropolis, a revolutionary holy site carrying profound red memories, and a gateway to the majestic Taihang Mountains. Here, history and modernity intertwine, nature and culture complement each other, awaiting every traveler eager to discover true wonder.

Historical Imprints: From the Cradle of Revolution to a Thousand Years of Ancient Charm

The history of Shijiazhuang's urban development is closely linked to the modern history of China. Since the beginning of the 20th century, when the Beijing-Hankou Railway and the Zhengtai Railway intersected here, Shijiazhuang has risen rapidly like a new star, developing from a small village into an important industrial and commercial city, hence the name "the city brought by the train".

Cradle of the Red Revolution

Shijiazhuang and its surrounding areas hold a pivotal position in the history of the Chinese revolution. Xibaipo, located in Pingshan County, was the headquarters of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and the last rural command post for the liberation of all of China, hailed as "the place where the new China began." Here, the Party Central Committee directed the three major campaigns and convened the historically significant Second Plenary Session of the Seventh Central Committee, laying a solid foundation for the establishment of the new China. Visiting the Xibaipo Memorial Hall and the former site of the CPC Central Committee is an essential part of understanding modern Chinese history and experiencing the revolutionary spirit.

The lingering charm of an ancient city

Although Shijiazhuang itself is a young city, its surrounding areas boast a long history and rich cultural heritage. Not far from the city center lies Zhengding Ancient City , a national historical and cultural city with over 1600 years of history. While the grandeur of its "nine towers, four pagodas, eight temples, and twenty-four golden archways" is no longer present, it still preserves numerous precious cultural relics and historical sites.

• Longxing Temple: One of the largest and best-preserved Song Dynasty Buddhist temples in northern China, it is famous for its 21.3-meter-tall bronze statue of the Thousand-Handed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin ("Great Compassion Bodhisattva").
• Rongguo Mansion: An antique-style architectural complex built according to "Dream of the Red Chamber", it is an excellent place to experience the culture of "Dream of the Red Chamber" and appreciate the beauty of classical gardens.
• The Huata Pagoda of Guanghui Temple is a representative work of the Jin Dynasty multi-eaved pagoda in China, with a unique shape and exquisite carvings.
• Kaiyuan Temple: Although only the bell tower and the Sumeru Pagoda remain, its historical value and artistic charm should not be underestimated.

In addition, the Zhaozhou Bridge (Anji Bridge) located in Zhao County is the oldest and best-preserved open-spandrel stone arch bridge in the world. It was designed and built by Li Chun, a craftsman of the Sui Dynasty, and showcases the superb bridge architecture art of ancient China.

Unique Experiences: N Ways to Explore Shijiazhuang in Depth

A Journey to Discover Red Memories

Head to Xibaipo and experience firsthand that magnificent revolutionary history. Stroll through the former site of the CPC Central Committee, visit the former residences of Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, and other veteran revolutionaries, and listen to the guides recount deeply moving stories, allowing the revolutionary spirit to cleanse your soul.

Experience the culture of the ancient city

In Zhengding Ancient City , you can rent a bicycle and wander through the quaint streets and alleys, explore the solemnity of Longxing Temple, experience the elegance of Rongguo Mansion, and climb the South Gate to overlook the ancient city's scenery. At night, the ancient city is brightly lit, offering a unique charm.

Embrace the Taihang Mountains and Rivers

Shijiazhuang serves as a convenient gateway to the heart of the Taihang Mountains. Zhangshiyan , renowned for its unique landscape of "red cliffs, green ridges, strange peaks, and secluded valleys," is hailed as the "Guilin of the North." Its breathtaking natural scenery makes it a paradise for hikers and photographers. Furthermore, high-altitude scenic areas such as Tuoliang and Wuyuezhai are ideal destinations for summer retreats and winter snow viewing.

A Journey to Feel the Pulse of the City

Back in the city center, you can visit the Hebei Provincial Museum to learn about Hebei Province's long history and splendid culture. Experience Shijiazhuang's urban fashion and vitality in modern commercial complexes like MixC and Letai Center . At night, stroll along main roads such as Yuhua Road and Zhongshan Road, feeling the city's vibrant modern atmosphere.

A Culinary Journey Through Shijiazhuang: Exploring Authentic Local Delicacies

The cuisine of Shijiazhuang is simple yet full of northern characteristics, with every bite carrying a strong sense of home cooking.

• Clay oven baked sesame seed cake: crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with a rich sesame aroma, it is a frequent guest on the breakfast table of Shijiazhuang people.
• Jin Feng Braised Chicken: Established in 1908, it has a golden color, tender meat that falls off the bone, and a rich flavor.
• Gaocheng Palace Noodles: With a long history, they are as thin as hair, do not become mushy after cooking, and have a chewy texture.
• Smoked Meat Pancake: The crispy pancake is filled with rich smoked meat, topped with scallions and sweet bean sauce, making it an unforgettable dish.
• Donkey meat sandwich: Although it originated in Baoding, it is also very popular in Shijiazhuang. The crispy on the outside and tender on the inside sandwich with delicious donkey meat is a delicacy that should not be missed.

In the streets and alleys of Shijiazhuang, you can also find a variety of authentic noodles and snacks, such as beef stewed pancakes, scallion pancakes, and jianbing guozi, each of which carries the unique flavor of this city.

Xootour takes you to discover a different Shijiazhuang

Xootour is dedicated to providing you with in-depth and authentic travel experiences. We believe that every city has its unique soul and untold stories. In Shijiazhuang, we will take you beyond the framework of traditional sightseeing, immersing you in the lives of the locals. Whether it's exploring the red imprints of the old revolutionary base areas, strolling through the ancient city's blue bricks and gray tiles, hiking the magnificent Taihang Mountains, or savoring the authentic street food, Xootour will meticulously plan everything for you, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in this city and feel its unique charm and warmth. Come to Shijiazhuang and embark on a journey of discovery that exceeds your expectations!