Zhengding Ancient City Scenic Area
Scenic Spot Introduction
Zhengding Ancient City is a national 5A-level tourist attraction with a history of over 2,500 years, often referred to as the “Magnificent Town of the North.” This place has preserved a wealth of precious historical and cultural heritage, including Buddhist temples, ancient towers, and traditional dwellings, making it one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in North China.
The construction of Zhengding Ancient City began during the Spring and Autumn Period and developed through various dynasties such as the Warring States, Qin and Han, Sui and Tang, reaching its peak during the Song Dynasty. The ancient city wall, with a perimeter of 12 kilometers, was rebuilt during the Ming Dynasty using a unique structure of “earth inside and bricks outside.” Within the city, there are 9 key cultural relics under national protection, including Longxing Temple and Tianning Temple Tower, earning it the reputation of “Nine Towers, Four Towers, Eight Temples, and Twenty-Four Golden Archways.”
As a famous historical and cultural city in China, Zhengding Ancient City has witnessed numerous significant historical events. It is the hometown of the famous Three Kingdoms general Zhao Yun and one of the birthplaces of Yuan qu (a form of traditional Chinese opera). The ancient city’s architecture combines the grandeur of northern architecture with the delicacy of Jiangnan gardens, forming a unique architectural style. In recent years, the local government has invested heavily in the preservation and restoration of the ancient city, bringing new life to this millennium-old town.
The ancient city is not only a living fossil of history and culture but also an important sample for studying ancient Chinese city planning. Its “crossroads” layout reflects the wisdom of traditional Chinese city design, while the well-preserved ancient building complex provides valuable physical materials for studying ancient Chinese architectural art.
Must-Visit Attractions
Longxing Temple
- The largest existing Liao Dynasty temple in China
- Bronze statue of Sakyamuni Buddha
- Suggested visiting time: 90 minutes
Rongguo Mansion
- The architectural prototype of “Dream of the Red Mansions”
- The mansion of the Jia family in the Qing Dynasty
- Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes
Tianning Temple Tower
- Thousand-year-old brick carving art
- One of the eight major scenic spots in Zhengding
- Suggested visiting time: 45 minutes
Linji Temple
- Ancestral home of Zen Buddhism
- Ancient architectural complex
- Suggested visiting time: 60 minutes
Visiting Suggestions
Best Touring Route
Day 1:- Morning: Longxing Temple
- Afternoon: Rongguo Mansion, Tianning Temple Tower
Day 2:
- Morning: Linji Temple
- Afternoon: Ancient City Pedestrian Street, other temples
Visiting Schedule
- It is recommended to visit temples in the morning
- Avoid peak hours during holidays
- Reserve time to experience life in the ancient city
Practical Tips
- It is recommended to hire a professional guide for explanation
- Prepare comfortable walking shoes
- Pay attention to temple etiquette
Transportation Guide
- High-speed rail: Approximately 2 hours from Beijing Station to Zhengding Station
- Self-drive: Take the Beijing-Hong Kong-Macao Expressway and exit at Zhengding
- City transportation: Shijiazhuang public buses can reach directly
- Within the scenic area: Walk or take an electric car to tour
Recommended Local Food
- Zhengding Ancient City Snack Street
- Zhengding Donkey Meat Fire Burnt Pancakes
- Hebei Special Noodles
- Traditional Pastry Shop
Special Reminders
- Smoking and photography are prohibited inside temples
- Pay attention to protecting cultural relics and historic sites
- Some attractions require advance reservations
- It is recommended to visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds
- Prepare cash to purchase snacks
- Obey the etiquette of religious places
- It is recommended to plan your route ahead of time
- Parking spaces are limited in the ancient city.