Discovering ‘the Land of Yan and Zhao’ in Hebei province

Hebei province, with its beautiful capital, Shijiazhuang, is located to the north of the Yellow River, and to the east of the Taihang Mountains.

Its long and proud history can be traced back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC). At that time it was called “the Land of Yan and Zhao”, because its northern area was dominated by the Kingdom of Yan and its southern area by the Kingdom of Zhao. Today, that same area is home to more than 50 minority ethnic groups, such as Han, Hui, Manchu, Mongolian and Korean.

Hebei is also known for its moderate climate. The four seasons are distinct and enjoyable with dry and windy springs, hot and rainy summers, balmy and fine autumns, and dry and cold winters. The annual rainfall averages between 300 and 800 millimeters, and its temperature ranges from 0 C to 13 C. So the best travel time is during autumn, when you can enjoy clear and crisp conditions.

The province is home to a large variety of landscapes and it is the only province to have a sea coast, plains, lakes, hills, mountains and plateaus.

A visitor to the province has an unequalled opportunity to view many relics that can be found in this beautiful province. The famous mountain resort of Chengde used to be the largest royal summer resort of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911). Outside the surrounding wall of the resort, the visitor will find a display of several brilliant and glistening temples. They are called the “Eight Outer Temples” and are the largest imperial temples in all of China. The Mulan Paddock in Hebei province was used as the hunting place for the Qing emperors. Now, it is one of the few natural grassland resorts and a very popular destination for those visitors who are after a bit of fresh air in peaceful countryside.

Shanhaiguan Pass, also called “the First Pass Under Heaven”, is at the easternmost end of the Great Wall, which winds its way through the north of the province. All these beautiful highlights will make tourists feel excited about the scenery, history and natural beauty in Hebei province.

On a tour to Hebei province, tourists can not only have a long look at all the historic relics, but also see all the beautiful natural landscapes that you can only dream of. In spring, tourists can ride on the vast and magnificent grasslands. In summer, they can enjoy the sunshine, beaches, and all the fresh air that blows in from the Bohai Gulf in the Beidaihe and Nandaihe scenic spots. In autumn, they can explore the fascinating Yesanpo Scenic Area in Baoding city. And in winter, another spectacular destination in Baoding is Baiyang Lake. The lake will be a special attraction, because tourists can see there very unique scenery of reeds and snow.

Besides, do not miss the Wuqiao Acrobatics World in Wuqiao county, Cangzhou city. Wuqiao county was where Chinese acrobatics originated. The Acrobatics World is known as the only acrobatics theme park in the world where you can see various acrobatics performed by people and even animals. Here you also learn the long history of acrobatics in the museum. It is a wonderful place that won’t let you down.