Baoding

Baoding combines the cultural heritage of a historic city near Beijing with the natural scenery of the Taihang Mountains. Local foods such as donkey-meat huoshao are also part of the experience. Start with the historic sights in the city, then choose countryside scenery or educational attractions in the surrounding counties as time allows.

Historic and Cultural Sights in the City

• Zhili Governor-General's Office: This is among the most completely preserved Qing-dynasty provincial government compounds in China. Zeng Guofan and Li Hongzhang both served here. Taking a guided tour makes it easier to understand the history behind the buildings.

• Ancient Lotus Pond: Dating back to the Yuan dynasty, this centuries-old garden brings the style of gardens south of the Yangtze to northern China, where it is rarely seen. Walk around the lotus pond to admire the pavilions and waterside halls. The scenery is especially appealing when the lotuses bloom in summer.

• Daci Pavilion: This Yuan-dynasty pavilion is a major Baoding landmark, with views over the old city from above. Admission is free, but it is closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.

• West Street: This neighborhood retains the architectural style of the Republican era, with creative shops scattered among historic buildings. It is a good place for walking and photography. After dark, you can also enjoy the lively street-side night market.

• Huai Army Assembly Hall: The architecture combines features of Huizhou-style buildings with the layout of northern courtyard houses. Look closely at the details of the historic theater. It is a good stop for architectural photography and for learning about late Qing history.

Natural Scenery in the Surrounding Counties

• Baishi Mountain: This 5A-rated scenic area is known for its forest of marble peaks, with a suspended glass walkway among its attractions. Clear days offer long views of the peaks, while rainy weather may bring a sea of clouds.

• Baiyangdian: The largest freshwater lake in northern China is well suited to boat trips through reed beds and lotus blooms. Vast stretches of lotus flowers bloom in summer, making it a good season to enjoy the waterside scenery.
• Yesanpo: This 5A-rated scenic area includes Baili Gorge, known for its quiet canyon setting. With a local average summer temperature of 23°C, it is a good choice for escaping the heat, hiking or rafting.

• Western Qing Tombs: Four emperors are buried in this Qing-dynasty imperial cemetery, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Red walls and historic buildings sit amid hills and waterways. Relatively few visitors make for a peaceful atmosphere.

Family Learning Activities and Museums

• Paleozoological Museum of China: This large natural history museum in Asia displays giant dinosaur fossils and other prehistoric specimens, making it a good place to introduce children to ancient life. Advance reservations are required.

• Ranzhuang Tunnel Warfare Memorial Hall: Learn about the tunnel warfare described in history textbooks and enter the actual tunnels, known as the “Underground Great Wall.” Admission is free, and the museum can be included in an educational itinerary focused on revolutionary history.

Local Specialties

Baoding has more to offer than donkey-meat huoshao. Traditional wheat-based dishes and local cooking are also worth including in your meal plans.

• Donkey-Meat Huoshao: A signature Baoding snack, this round baked flatbread is filled with donkey meat braised in a seasoned sauce. The bread is baked until golden and crisp, while the filling combines lean and fatty meat. It is best eaten hot. Places to try include Yongmao Donkey Meat and Lurou Cao.
• Beef Zhaobing: This traditional dish has been passed down by long-established shops for more than 300 years. Beef and rich stock are poured over pieces of flatbread, which soak up the broth and become soft and tender. Try it at Zhili Anjia Zhaobing, where orders can be placed using the local phrase “ji zhao ji.”

• Bai Yunzhang Steamed Buns: This century-old shop is known for buns with thin wrappers, generous fillings and plenty of savory juices. Beef or lamb fillings can be paired with a special vinegar, giving a fragrant, sweet flavor without heat.

• Zhonglou Bread: This shop sells affordable, old-fashioned bread, with red bean and shredded coconut among the popular flavors. Lines are often long on weekends, so try to shop earlier in the day.

• Plain-Style Yuxiang Shredded Meat: Baoding's local version uses shredded beef, with a mainly sweet flavor balanced by a little sourness. It goes well with rice and helps cut through the richness of a meal.

• Donkey Huoshao Latte: This creative drink on West Street pairs dark-roast coffee with a miniature donkey-meat huoshao. Its distinctive presentation makes it a fun subject for photos.

Suggested Itineraries

• One Day (City Walking Tour): Start with donkey-meat huoshao for breakfast, then visit the Zhili Governor-General's Office (1.5 hours) and Ancient Lotus Pond (1 hour). Have beef zhaobing for lunch, visit Daci Pavilion (45 minutes), then stroll along West Street and try some snacks before heading home.
• Two Days (City and Surrounding Counties): Day 1: Explore the city's historic and cultural sights. Day 2: Drive to either Baishi Mountain or Baiyangdian for a day of natural scenery, returning in the early evening.
• Three Days (A More In-Depth Visit): Days 1–2: Explore the city and nearby areas. Day 3: Choose the Western Qing Tombs to learn about imperial burial grounds, or head to Yesanpo to explore the gorges and escape the heat.

Accommodation and Transport

• Transport: Rail travelers can choose high-speed services, arriving at Baoding East Station or Baoding Station depending on the train. Baoding Station is closer to the old city. Drivers can take the Beijing–Hong Kong–Macao Expressway or the Beijing–Kunming Expressway. The drive from Beijing takes about 1.5–2 hours.
• Accommodation: Staying in Lianchi District or near West Street provides easy access to the main sights, makes it convenient to explore the old city on foot and puts evening snacks within easy reach.

Travel Tips

• Reservations and Opening Hours: Sites such as the Zhili Governor-General's Office and Daci Pavilion are generally closed on Mondays, except on public holidays. Check before your visit. The Paleozoological Museum of China requires advance reservations; bring your ID card.
• Parking and Getting Around: There is a parking lot opposite the Zhili Governor-General's Office, charging about 5 yuan per day. Roads in the old city are narrow, so consider taking taxis or walking.
• What to Wear: The city's sights are fairly close together, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring a light jacket for mountain areas such as Baishi Mountain, where temperatures vary considerably between day and night.
• Guided Visits: At the Zhili Governor-General's Office, consider hiring a guide or renting an audio guide to understand the compound's history rather than simply viewing the buildings.