HanPath

邯郸市

hán dān · Handan

Three thousand years old — the capital of the Zhao state

Why this place

Handan was the capital of the State of Zhao in the Warring States period, more than 2,300 years ago, and a surprising number of Chinese idioms come from stories set here. It is one of the very few Chinese cities whose name has never changed.

What to see

  • Zhao Wang Cheng, the earthen ramparts of the Zhao capital, still visible in the city
  • Congtai Park, the terrace where King Wuling of Zhao reviewed his troops
  • Xiangtangshan Grottoes nearby — sixth-century Buddhist cave carvings with a distinct style

What to eat

  • Handan is known for its wheaten foods — dumplings, flatbreads and knife-cut noodles
  • Yimian — a local noodle eaten with a thick sauce

Best time

April–May and September–November

河北省 · Hebei China Guide