[2025 Zhengding Restaurant] Travel guide for ZHEN DING HAO JIA (updated Dec)

As a travel blogger, I've visited many ancient towns, but few can let you "travel through" the Ming and Qing dynasties and the Republic of China era in one day, and also immerse yourself in the Jiangnan water town-like night scenery like Shijiazhuang's Longquan Ancient Town. Core Experience: Watch plays by day, dream by night The biggest feature of Longquan Ancient Town is "plays throughout the garden." The scenic area stages dozens of performances all day long in different corners through actors and settings. It is recommended to adopt the strategy of "arriving in the afternoon and enjoying until night" to fully appreciate its dual charm. Daytime (Afternoon to Dusk): Immersive performances and cultural exploration · Signature live drama: Must-see "Battle at the Water's Edge," with the thrilling scenes of war horses neighing and clashing armor. Another show, "Fantastic Li Bai," uses technology to bring the poet to life right before your eyes. Performances are mostly held at fixed stages like Han Xin Theater. It is recommended to scan the QR code for the daily program after entering to plan your route. · Street interactive performances: Walking through the three streets and five alleys, you might "accidentally" encounter plays like "The Story of Huolu" and "Zheng Tai Railway," or interact with NPCs dressed in ancient costumes to experience the fun of being "in the play." · Cultural venues tour: There are 12 cultural venues open for free within the ancient town. Recommended visits include the Gramophone Museum to listen to the ethereal sound of century-old music boxes, or the Piano Museum to see pianos over 170 years old, both offering a unique quiet retreat amid the bustle. Nighttime (After sunset to closing): Ultimate romance of light, shadow, and water · Night tour of Yingyue River: This is the soul of the ancient town. When lanterns light up on both banks and ancient buildings reflect on the shimmering water, it instantly evokes the charm of the "Little Jiangnan of the North." Taking a rowboat on the river offers an excellent perspective for night photography. · Brilliant light show: The entire ancient town transforms into a "palace in the sky" under carefully designed lighting, especially along Yingyue River’s banks, ancient bridges, pavilions, and towers, all perfect backdrops for stunning light and shadow photos. Blogger Tested: Seven Top Photo Spots The ancient town offers scenic views at every step, but the following spots have been tested for the highest photo success rate: 1. Yingyue River and Ancient Bridge Area · Key highlight: The iconic landscape of the ancient town, combining water, bridges, architecture, and lighting. · Photo tips: · Stand on the Qing Dynasty ancient bridge with the distant Western Hills or ancient town buildings as the background to shoot silhouette or side profiles, creating a strong storytelling effect. · On one riverbank, capture people with their reflections in the water alongside the passing black-awning boats. · At night, use lanterns and building outlines to create a dreamy atmosphere. 2. Furong Corridor and Lanyue Pavilion · Key highlight: Located on Ruining Street, surrounded by Ming and Qing architecture and green bamboo streams, exquisitely designed with classical garden charm. · Photo tips: Ideal for wearing Hanfu or qipao, leaning on the corridor railing or gazing from the pavilion, using framing composition to capture elegant and classical portraits. 3. Republic of China Style Street · Key highlight: Recreates the old Shijiazhuang look with rickshaws, vintage posters, Western-style stained glass, full of retro vibes and cinematic feel. · Photo tips: Rent Republic-era student uniforms or qipao, capture dynamic shots at street corners, stairs, or shop entrances to create a "step-by-step story" time-travel effect. 4. Mingxi Alley · Key highlight: A lively food street decorated with lanterns and shop signs, full of local life atmosphere. · Photo tips: During the blue hour at dusk, use the warm stall lights as foreground to shoot lively scenes of people walking and eating, making photos full of life. 5. Costume Rental and Street Snapshots · Key highlight: The ancient town has a national style costume rental offering exquisite makeup and styling from Hanfu to Republic-era clothing. Walking on any cobblestone street in ancient costume becomes a scenic view itself. · Photo tips: No need to look for specific spots; casual shots in empty alleys, weathered old walls, or under flower-hanging gates can naturally capture the ancient charm. Complete Practical Information · Opening hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM. · Ticket discounts: Free or discounted admission for children under 1.2 meters (inclusive), seniors 60 years and older (inclusive), active military personnel, disabled persons, etc. Students can enjoy discounts with valid student ID. · Transportation: · Self-driving: Navigate to "Longquan Ancient Town," about 1 hour drive from Shijiazhuang city center. · Public transport: Take Metro Line 1 to "Xiwang" station, then transfer to Bus 304; during holidays or at night, watch for the "Xiwang-Longquan Ancient Town" night economy shuttle. · Blogger tips: · Best entry time: Recommended to enter after 4 PM to enjoy daytime performances and architecture, then seamlessly transition to the stunning night scenery for the best value. · Hanfu experience: Hanfu rental and professional makeup and hair services are available inside the scenic area. Since night photo demand is high, it is advised to rent early. · Food exploration: The food street gathers Hebei specialties like Zhengding Haojia Spare Ribs and Jinfeng Braised Chicken, allowing one-stop tasting.

Girls! November in Shijiazhuang is breathtakingly beautiful! Golden ginkgo trees, bright red maple leaves, every shot looks like a masterpiece📸 Save this 3 days 2 nights nanny-level guide now～ Day 1 ⏰ Morning: Longxing Temple, Zhengding Introduction: A thousand-year-old ancient temple, where autumn colors blend beautifully with ancient architecture. The ginkgo tree in front of the Great Compassion Pavilion is truly stunning! Transportation: About 40 minutes by taxi from downtown, or take bus No. 177 to Longxing Temple Station Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (recommended to go early to avoid crowds) 🍽️ Noon: Haojia Spare Ribs Introduction: Zhengding specialty, the spare ribs are tender and flavorful, paired perfectly with the traditional kiln-baked flatbread! Transportation: 15-minute walk from Longxing Temple Hours: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM (expect queues during meal times) 🌆 Afternoon: Rongguo Mansion Introduction: Filming location of the 1987 version of Dream of the Red Chamber, wearing Hanfu here for photos is super atmospheric~ Transportation: 10-minute taxi ride from Haojia Spare Ribs Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM 🌙 Evening: Night Tour of Zhengding Ancient City Introduction: The ancient city walls under the lights are magical, the South City Gate night view is a must-visit! Accommodation: Recommended to stay in a guesthouse inside Zhengding Ancient City Day 2 ⏰ Morning: Zhaozhou Bridge Introduction: The millennium-old bridge from textbooks, the swaying reeds in autumn are very poetic Transportation: About 1 hour by taxi from Zhengding Hours: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM 🍽️ Noon: Zhaoxian Donkey Meat Sandwich Introduction: Local specialty, donkey meat is fragrant but not greasy, remember to have it with a bowl of hot soup Transportation: Near Zhaozhou Bridge scenic area Hours: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM 🌆 Afternoon: Bailin Zen Temple Introduction: A famous Buddhist holy site in northern China, full of autumn Zen vibes Transportation: 15-minute taxi ride from Zhaoxian Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM 🌙 Evening: Return to downtown, stay near Letai Center Day 3 ⏰ Morning: Hebei Museum Introduction: Don’t miss the museum’s treasure, the gold-threaded jade burial suit! Free admission, remember to bring your ID card Transportation: Metro Line 1 to Museum Station Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays) 🍽️ Noon: Hongxing Steamed Buns Introduction: A long-established Shijiazhuang brand, thin bun skin with generous filling, very affordable Transportation: 10-minute walk from the museum Hours: 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM 🌆 Afternoon: Chang’an Park Introduction: A local favorite! The ginkgo avenue is golden in November Transportation: Metro Line 1 to Beiguo Shopping Mall Station Hours: Open all day 🌙 Evening: Xinbai Plaza Night Market Introduction: Lots of snacks! Highly recommend fried skewers and grilled gluten Ending Tips: November has big temperature differences, remember to bring a thick coat Zhengding Ancient City combo tickets are more cost-effective Budget: About 800-1000 RMB per person (including accommodation) If you have questions, ask me in the comments~ Tags

📍 Highlights: Red history, ancient city exploration, Taihang mountain scenery, authentic Hebei cuisine 👫 Suitable for: History enthusiasts, nature lovers, food explorers, families with children 💰 Budget reference: 800-1500 RMB per person (including round-trip transportation from Beijing/Zhengzhou) 📅 Itinerary Day 1: Red History & Ancient City Stroll 🚄 Morning: Arrive in Shijiazhuang High-speed train from Beijing 1 hour / Zhengzhou 2 hours to Shijiazhuang Station (recommended by subway or taxi) Accommodation options: City center (recommended "Hilton Shijiazhuang," near subway) Zhengding Ancient City (recommended "Guesthouse near Rongguo Mansion," for an ancient style experience) 🏛️ Morning: Revolutionary Sites Xibaipo Memorial Hall (free, reservation required, 1.5-hour drive): Must-see: Former site of the CPC Central Committee, bronze statues of the five secretaries Hidden experience: VR "Liberation War" simulation Or Hebei Museum (free, treasure exhibit "Changxin Palace Lantern") 🍜 Noon: First taste of Hebei cuisine "Red Star Baozi" (pork and scallion buns + millet porridge) Or "Zhonghexuan Restaurant" (beef pancake, century-old brand) 🏯 Afternoon: Zhengding Ancient City (direct subway Line 1) Longxing Temple (50 RMB ticket): See the "Inverted Guanyin" colored sculpture (praised by Lu Xun as the Eastern goddess of beauty) Touch the thousand-year-old locust tree for blessings Rongguo Mansion (40 RMB ticket): Wear Hanfu and take photos of scenes from Dream of the Red Chamber 🌃 Evening: Ancient City Nightscape Zhengding South City Gate (free, spectacular light show) Night market recommendation: Wangquan Ancient Street (try "Hao’s Spare Ribs" with clay oven baked flatbread) Day 2: Taihang Mountains & Cultural Immersion ⛰️ Early morning: Canyon secret spot (2-hour drive) Zhangshiyan (65 RMB ticket): Walk the "Nine Maidens Peak" plank road to see Danxia landforms Best autumn foliage (mid to late October) 🍲 Noon: Farmhouse flavors "Zhangshiyan Farmhouse" (cured meat noodles + scrambled eggs) 🎭 Afternoon: Intangible cultural heritage experience Deming Ancient Town (free): Experience: Jingxing flower-pulling performance (2:00 PM / 4:00 PM shows) Make "Gongmian" noodles by hand (30 RMB/person) 🌙 Evening: Urban nightlife "Xiaofangniu" (top Hebei cuisine, must order the divine chicken) Or "Zhaiying Street Night Market" (grilled pig trotters + Jinfeng braised chicken) Day 3: Modern Style & Return 🎡 Early morning: City landmarks Shijiazhuang TV Tower (30 RMB ticket): 216-meter-high glass observation deck Or Beiguo Water World (summer only, 158 RMB ticket) 🛍️ Morning: Souvenir shopping Must-buy list: Jinfeng Braised Chicken (vacuum packed, look for the old brand) Zhengding Majia Chicken (marinated flavor) Gaocheng Palace Lantern (intangible cultural heritage handmade mini version) 🍜 Noon: One last bowl of noodles before leaving "Wuji Heluo" (lamb soup base + chili oil) Or "Zhaoxian Donkey Meat Sandwich" (freshly baked sandwich with donkey meat) 🚄 Return: Recommended to depart from Shijiazhuang Station (30 minutes direct subway) 💡 Local insider tips ✔ Transportation: City subway + shared bikes are most convenient For Zhangshiyan, recommend chartering a car (about 400 RMB/day) ✔ Accommodation tips: Stay in Zhengding for night tours of the ancient city (better value than city center) Book 2 weeks in advance during peak seasons (May Day/National Day) ✔ Pitfall warnings: Be cautious buying souvenirs at Xibaipo Memorial (mostly not authentic) Avoid "specialty stores" recommended by taxi drivers ✔ Seasonal events: April: Zhengding Begonia Festival July: Mumu Water Icefall Festival (summer cooling) October: Zhangshiyan Red Leaf Festival 🏮 Shijiazhuang is an underrated treasure city! Three days and two nights, from the red waves of Xibaipo to the thousand-year Buddhist light of Zhengding Ancient City, ending with the fragrant Jinfeng Braised Chicken to scent your journey home~ (📸 Photo spots: Longxing Temple Mani Hall, Zhangshiyan Danxia, Zhengding South City Gate night view)

💰 Who says winter is not suitable for traveling? November is the real month! Air tickets fell to the lowest of the year, B&B owners tearfully cut prices, these 4 seriously underestimated treasure towns, hiding the most authentic winter fireworks! 1. Jingxi, Guangxi (a paradise on the Sino-Vietnamese border) 🌄 Must-see attractions Goose Spring (ticket ¥38): The winter morning is covered with thin mist, the spring water is as blue as emerald, and the picture of an old man holding a bamboo raft is like an ink painting Jiuzhou Ancient Town (free): The hometown of hand-embroidered balls, with colorful embroidered balls hanging on both sides of the bluestone slab road, a casual shot is a blockbuster 🍲 A must-eat food Rolled Powder (¥5/portion): Rice skin wrapped in minced meat mushrooms, drizzled with yellow skin sauce, standard breakfast for Jingxi people Sour things stall (¥10 tube full): green mango + apricot + plum, sprinkled with chili salt, sour and spicy crisp can not stop 💡 Money saving tips Nanning airport bus directly to Jingxi (¥80), half cheaper than flying to Baise! Local B&B off-season ¥60 can stay in Zhuangjia stilt house 2. Fujian Quanzhou (half city fireworks half city fairy) 🕌 Must-see attractions Kaiyuan Temple (free): Under the East and West Tower of the thousand-year-old temple, ginkgo leaves fall all over the red brick yard, and the scene of monks sweeping the snow is full of Zen Kao Po Village (free): A fisherman wearing a hairpin is prying oysters in front of an oyster shell house, as if traveling back to the Song and Yuan Dynasties 🦪 Must-eat food Noodle paste (¥6+ ingredients): Hot noodle paste oil strips, served with vinegar meat seafood, Minnan winter life renewal artifact Ginger Duck (¥45/half): The sizzling duck meat in the casserole is fragrant with old ginger, and even the bones are seasoned 🚌Transportation Tips The attractions in the old town are concentrated. You can walk around the city by taking a 2 yuan "little white" battery car 3.Jingdezhen, Jiangxi (winter days of blue and other smoke and rain) 🏺 Must-see attractions Imperial Kiln Museum (free): The snowy scenery of Dragon Pearl Pavilion is reflected in the red brick arcade, and under the lights at night it resembles a porcelain universe that travels through time and space Sambo Village (free): Take a walk along a frozen stream lined with porcelain-encrusted earthen walls, and the aroma of roasted sweet potatoes wafts from the art studio 🍜 Must-eat food Cold flour (¥5): coarse flour mixed with orange peel + dried carrots, the taste of Jingdezhen people from childhood to adulthood Dumpling dumplings (¥1/piece): carrot thread filling and leek filling, the steam covered the glasses when the heat was opened 🎨 Special experience Handmade porcelain at Taoxichuan Night Market (from ¥30), half cheaper than the store! 4. Zhengding, Hebei (the abandoned northern ancient city) 🏯 Must-see attractions Longxing Temple (¥50): Liang Sicheng is known as "the first famous temple outside Beijing", and the murals of Mani Hall are even more magnificent under the snow light Ancient City Walls (free): Stroll along the Ming Dynasty city walls and watch the sunset stretch the shadows of the four towers 🥟 Must-eat food Hao Family Ribs (¥35/portion): Sauce ribs stewed in a century-old stove, the meat is fragrant Royal Roast Mai (¥12/cage): Paper-thin lamb yakiniku, bursting with juice when you bite it open 🚄 Transportation guide Shijiazhuang Airport High-speed Railway is 15 minutes directly to Zhengding, and all the attractions in the ancient city are within walking distance ⚠️ Important reminder ✔️ After November 15th these attractions will fully enforce off-season fares ✔️ B&B platform search "continuous stay discount" often have 3 nights get 1 night activities ✔️ Remember to bring a thermos in northern cities! Many restaurants provide free hot water 💬 Fan code "Baozi who left after this strategy, remember to add a spoonful of yellow skin sauce when you go to Jingxi to eat roll powder, the boss will treat you as one of your own!" Follow me, let you wind together!

Forget the crowded Forbidden City in Beijing this National Day holiday! Just an hour by high-speed train, I discovered a hidden gem near Shijiazhuang: Zhengding Ancient City. It boasts the essence of ancient architecture from the Tang and Song dynasties, praised by Liang Sicheng as "the foremost temple outside Beijing," and is brimming with authentic local flavors. Two days of exploring and eating won't be enough—it's definitely worth the trip! 🚗 Two-Day In-Depth Tour of Ancient Architecture and Food: Day 1: Focus on Longxing Temple, Enjoy the Ancient City's Charm at Night - Morning: First Encounter with the Ancient City, Try the Time-Honored Brands Upon arrival, head straight to Wangquan Ancient Street. The century-old "Wang Family Shaomai" is a must-try! The lotus leaf-pleated shaomai skin is paper-thin; biting into it releases a burst of savory beef and mutton broth—it's so delicious you'll want to stomp your feet! Pair it with the "Bald Li Ganglu Shaobing" next door—the outer layer is crispy and crumbly, the inside layered, and the savory aroma fills your nose. It's best eaten fresh out of the oven. - Afternoon: Immerse yourself in Longxing Temple and discover its "Six Ancient Architectural Wonders" Dedicate the entire afternoon to Longxing Temple, focusing on these six treasures: the reclining Guanyin in the Mani Hall (her gentle gaze is breathtaking), the rotating revolving sutra repository, the "First Sui Dynasty Stele" of Longzang Temple, the 21.3-meter-tall Thousand-Handed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin, the exquisitely layered bronze Vairocana Buddha, and the still stunning murals on the walls despite their faded appearance. A guided tour or audio guide is highly recommended to avoid missing details. - Evening: Watch the sunset from the city wall and enjoy a "ceremonial" dinner Climb the ancient city wall of Zhengding and watch the sunset paint the ancient pagodas golden red—every snapshot is a masterpiece. Afterwards, head straight to "Song Ji Eight Bowls," where four meat dishes and four vegetable dishes are steamed for eight hours, the braised pork knuckle is tender and falls off the bone, and the meatballs burst with juice when you bite into them. Served with mixed grain rice, every bite is a taste of home-style cooking passed down for a thousand years. - Night: Stroll through the night market, grab some skewers, and pack some late-night snacks. The South Gate Square has a fantastic atmosphere after the lights come on. Head to the small commodity night market for some freshly grilled lamb skewers, and pack some "Sun's Pig Trotters" to go – sticky, savory, and delicious. Back at the guesthouse, enjoy them while reflecting on the ancient buildings you visited during the day – pure bliss! Day 2: Explore history at the Four Pagodas and One Mansion, eating your way through the night. - Morning: A bowl of old tofu awakens your taste buds. Get up early and head to "Niu's Old Tofu" in the alley. The tofu, made with brine, is incredibly tender. Topped with their secret salty brine, a spoonful of chili oil, and cilantro, one bite is bursting with flavor. Perfect with a fried dough stick. - Morning: Ancient Pagoda Tour, Exploring Different Styles Start your "Four Pagodas Check-in": Lingxiao Pagoda (Tang Dynasty style, climb to the top for panoramic views), Hua Pagoda (most uniquely shaped, resembling a flower), Xumi Pagoda (the oldest pagoda in Zhengding), and Chengling Pagoda (small and exquisite, holding stories of Zhengding). Each pagoda has its own history, so take your time and appreciate the details. - Noon: Must-Try Hao Family Ribs, Gnaw to Your Heart's Content Head straight to Hao Family Ribs (Yanzhao South Street Main Store). The ribs, braised in a secret old broth, are a vibrant red, the meat falling off the bone with a gentle touch, the sauce is savory with a hint of sweetness, and even the bones are flavorful. Be sure to order the "Hot Sliced ​​Meatballs," dipped in garlic sauce, for an incredibly rich meaty flavor. Pair them with a bowl of corn porridge to cleanse your palate. - Afternoon: Explore the Rongguo Mansion and enjoy a refreshing bowl of buckwheat cake. Visit the Rongguo Mansion and find the filming locations for the 1987 TV series *Dream of the Red Chamber*—the place where Daiyu buried flowers and Baoyu's Yihong Courtyard. After a long walk, buy some "Zhengding buckwheat cake" at the entrance. The cake, made from buckwheat and cut into small pieces, is mixed with minced garlic, aged vinegar, and sesame oil—a refreshing and appetizing treat to relieve fatigue from exploring the garden. - Before heading home: Pick up a braised chicken as a souvenir. Head to the "Ma Family Braised Chicken" shop on Chengde South Street and buy a 300-year-old braised chicken in their traditional broth. The skin is springy, the meat is firm, and even the bones are infused with the rich flavor of the braising sauce. Vacuum-packed for easy transport, it's perfect for personal enjoyment or as a gift. 🍜 Must-Try Foods in Zhengding (with Food Spots) 1. Hearty Dishes (Ideal for Group Meals/Satiates) - Hao Family Ribs: Main branch on Yanzhao South Street, a favorite among locals. The ribs are stewed to perfection. - Songji Eight Bowls: Available à la carte or as a set meal; vacuum-packed, makes a great souvenir. - Ma's Braised Chicken: The original shop on Chengde South Street is the most authentic; even Empress Dowager Cixi praised it. Make sure you buy from the correct branch. 2. Local Specialties (Essential for food lovers, cheap and authentic) - Benggan (Benggan): A non-heritage shop on Wangquan South Street. The pig liver is sliced ​​as thin as hair, fried, and then seasoned. The more you chew, the more fragrant it becomes—unique in the country. - Zhengshun Wonton: Buckwheat noodles pressed using a traditional millstone, topped with beef gravy—chewy and smooth. Also a non-heritage delicacy; perfect with a sesame flatbread. - Clay Oven Sesame Flatbread: Besides "Bald Li," the stalls in the alleys are also good. Freshly baked and sold, you can even eat it with pig's head meat—double the savory flavor! 3. Food Streets (One-stop shopping, no disappointments) - Wangquan Ancient Street: A hub of time-honored brands, offering shumai, wontons, braised liver, and braised dishes, perfect for breakfast and lunch. - Longxing Temple Street: Adjacent to the scenic area, convenient for eating after visiting Longxing Temple. Eight-bowl feast, donkey meat sandwiches, and old-fashioned tofu are all easily accessible. - Small Commodity Night Market: Lively at night, featuring trendy snacks and local skewers, perfect for late-night snacks at affordable prices. 💡 Useful Tips - Transportation: After arriving at Shijiazhuang Station by high-speed rail, transfer to Metro Line 3 or bus 177 to reach Zhengding. Rent a bicycle or electric scooter within the ancient city for easier sightseeing and finding local snacks. - Accommodation: Choose a guesthouse within the ancient city, such as near Wangquan Ancient Street. This allows you to easily access the night market and late-night snacks without having to travel far. Some guesthouses even offer views of the ancient city wall at night. - Guided Tours: For cultural attractions like Longxing Temple and Rongguo Mansion, it's recommended to hire a guide for 50-100 yuan. You'll hear many hidden stories about the stone tablets and buildings, making it more interesting than visiting on your own. - Discounts: There are combined tickets for the attractions (Longxing Temple + Rongguo Mansion + Four Pagodas), saving 30-50 yuan compared to buying individual tickets. Some restaurants offer a 10% discount with your attraction ticket; remember to ask before paying. No need to squeeze into the Forbidden City or travel far. In Zhengding, you can witness the awe-inspiring ancient architecture and savor authentic local flavors—this National Day holiday, dedicate your time to this "treasure trove of ancient architecture + culinary paradise"—it's definitely worth it!