Overview
Shijiazhuang is the capital and main economic centre of Hebei Province. While not typically a tourist destination itself, it serves as a practical base for visiting nearby historical sites including two ancient monasteries, the world's oldest stone arch bridge built around 600 CE, and sections of the Great Wall.
Architecture · Budget Travel · Day Trips · History · Museums
Before you go
Attractions
Most major sights are outside the city: Zhaozhou Bridge (600 CE, world's oldest stone arch), Cangyan Mountain temples, Bailin Monastery, and Great Wall sections at Niangzi Guan.
Money
Currency is Chinese Yuan (CNY). Many attractions including Hebei Museum, Shijiazhuang Museum, and Zhaozhou Bridge offer free entry. Wholesale markets require haggling.
Traffic
Rush hour traffic can cause 20-minute delays at major intersections including Ping'An Da Jie, Zhongshan Lu, and Zhonghua Lu.
Transport
Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport is Hebei Airlines' main hub with daily flights across China. Four railway stations serve high-speed CRH trains. Train ticket offices charge ¥5 surcharge; station counters have foreign traveler assistance.