Zhangjiakou

Zhangjiakou, located in northwestern Hebei province, China, is a city that seamlessly blends rich history with modern attractions. Known as the "Northern Gate of Beijing," it offers travelers a unique mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and contemporary amenities. Ideal for history enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience authentic Chinese culture, a visit of 3 to 5 days allows for a comprehensive exploration.

Travel Tips in Zhangjiakou

• Best time to visit: The city experiences a continental monsoon climate, with hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. For skiing enthusiasts, winter (December to February) is ideal, while spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and are perfect for cultural tours.

• How to get there and get around: Zhangjiakou Ningyuan Airport (ZQZ) serves domestic flights and is approximately 9 kilometers from the city center. The Beijing-Zhangjiakou Intercity Railway, opened in December 2019, connects the city to Beijing in about 47 minutes. Within the city, buses and taxis are readily available.

• Safety: Zhangjiakou is generally safe for travelers. Standard precautions should be taken, such as safeguarding personal belongings and being cautious in crowded areas.

• Local customs, language, etiquette: Mandarin is the primary language. Basic phrases like "Nǐ hǎo" (Hello) and "Xièxiè" (Thank you) are appreciated. When visiting temples, dress modestly and remove shoes when entering sacred areas.

• Must-know practical advice: Attractions like the Dajingmen Great Wall may have entrance fees around $5. During peak tourist seasons, it's advisable to book accommodations and tickets in advance. Zhangjiakou is committed to environmental sustainability; consider using public transport and minimizing waste.

Highlights & Things to Do in Zhangjiakou

• Dajingmen Great Wall: Located in the north of the city, Dajingmen is the landmark of the city and a must-see for any traveler. It is famous as the No. 1 Gate of the Great Wall. Tourists can start hiking on the wall from the gate, which is one of the four important gates/passes of the Great Wall. (travelchinaguide.com)

• Ski Resorts in Chongli County: Chongli County of Zhangjiakou is a paradise for skiing. Great snow resorts in the area attract many visitors to its perfect ski fields and captivating scenery. Among them, the Wanlong Ski Resort, Yunding Skiing Park, and Changchengling Skiing Field are highly recommended. (travelchinaguide.com)

• Grass Skyline Scenic Road: Known as China's Route 66, this 133 km scenic road in Zhangbei County offers breathtaking views of grasslands, ancient Great Wall ruins, and unique geological formations. It's a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Zhaohua Temple: Constructed during the Ming dynasty, this temple is renowned for its intricate frescoes depicting over 500 characters from Buddhist and Taoist mythology. It's a serene spot for history and art enthusiasts. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Zhangbei Grassland: Experience the vastness of the Mongolian Plateau with a visit to this expansive grassland. It's perfect for camping, horseback riding, and immersing oneself in traditional Mongolian culture.

Prices & Costs in Zhangjiakou (approximate in USD)

• Accommodation (per night, double):

  • Budget: $20–$40
  • Mid-range: $50–$100
  • Luxury: $120 and above

• Food:

  • Street/local meal: $3–$5
  • Mid-range restaurant: $10–$20 per person
  • Daily basics: $10–$15

• Transport:

  • Local rides: $1–$3
  • Taxis: Starting fare $2, plus $0.5 per km
  • Airport/destination transfer: $10–$20

• Main attractions/entry fees:

  • Dajingmen Great Wall: $5
  • Ski resorts: $50–$100 per day, depending on the resort and season

• Daily budget range (excluding travel to the city):

  • Budget traveler: $30–$50
  • Mid-range traveler: $70–$120
  • Luxury traveler: $150 and above

Note: Prices can vary by season and lifestyle.