Overview
Handan is one of China's oldest continuously inhabited cities, with over 3,000 years of history as the capital of the Zhao Kingdom during the Warring States Period. The city preserves significant archaeological sites including the Zhao Kingdom ruins and the Xiangtangshan Grottoes, one of China's major Buddhist cave temple complexes.
Architecture · Budget Travel · Day Trips · Festivals · History
Before you go
Food
Street breakfast vendors operate 06:00-09:00. Local specialties include donkey meat hotpot, Guangfu noodles, and Cishan millet cake.
Language
Mandarin Chinese is the local language. English signage is limited outside major hotels. Basic Mandarin phrases are helpful.
Money
Prices are in Chinese Yuan (CNY). Cash is widely accepted but WeChat Pay and Alipay are preferred at most vendors and shops.
Transport
Local buses cost ¥1 per ride (¥2 with air conditioning). Taxis start at ¥6. The city is walkable around Congtai Park.
Weather
Summers are hot and rainy (June-August). Winters are cold (December-February). Spring and autumn offer the best sightseeing weather.