Name: Handan

Chinese name: 邯郸

Province: Hebei

Status: Prefecture-level city

Population: 1,390,000 inhabitants

Area: 12,000 km²

Handan is a mid-sized city in Hebei province, situated just over 150 km from Shijiazhuang. Handan is a historic city that merits spending a day exploring.

History

Handan was originally inhabited by the Cishan, who forged the settlement into a brilliant city in the heart of Hebei. It served as the ancient capital of Zhao during the Warring States period (476 BC – 221 BC).

During the Han dynasty (206 BC–220 AD), the city earned a distinguished reputation as one of the five greatest cities in China.

Toward the end of the Eastern Han dynasty, Handan began to decline in importance and was partially destroyed by warfare. The city of Yecheng then assumed its role as the region's capital.

Today

As the former capital of the Zhao kingdom, Handan is home to numerous historical remains that will delight history enthusiasts.

The city sits at the foot of the Taihang Mountains and unfolds through magnificent natural scenery.

During a visit to Handan, do not miss the principal historical and tourist site, the Wuling Cong Tai Terrace. Surrounded by water, the fortress constructed within its walls presents a sumptuous spectacle.

Further afield, the Xiangtangshan Grottoes, divided into two sections, encompass 16 caves housing over 4,300 Buddhist statues and numerous Buddhist inscriptions.

Climate

The city enjoys a monsoon continental climate and therefore experiences four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, springs are sunny, summers are hot and rainy, and autumn is mild.

The average annual temperature hovers around 13°C.

Spring and autumn are the best periods to visit Handan and its historic sites.

Train

Handan has a railway station with connections to Beijing, Zhengzhou, and Shijiazhuang.

Bus

Daily buses from Beijing serve Handan.

Roads provide easy access to Handan from the provincial capital and other cities in the region.

Taxis circulate throughout the city all day long.

What to do in Handan?

• Take a stroll on the Wuling Cong Tai Terrace.
• Explore the Xiangtangshan Grottoes.
• Wander around Jingniang Lake.
• Cross the historic Toddler Bridge.