Nestled within the sprawling 46,000-acre expanse of Yongnian Basin, Guangfu Ancient City (广府古城), also known simply as Guangfu, is a historical treasure trove that has witnessed over 2,600 years of human history. Its name, Guangfu, is derived from its past role as the administrative center of Guangping Prefecture. This ancient city, with its picturesque landscapes and rich heritage, is often referred to as the “Northern Small Jiangnan” and the “Second Baiyangdian” due to its scenic beauty, serene waters, lush reeds, harmonious aquatic life, lotus-filled ponds, and the melodious songs of birds.
The heart of Guangfu Ancient City lies at an average elevation of 41 meters above sea level, and it is characterized by its perennially flooded marshes with pristine water quality. This natural beauty has earned it comparisons to the charming landscapes of southern China.
Table of Contents
- Basic Information
- Location and Transportation
- Highlights of Guangfu Ancient City
- Video about Guangfu Ancient City
- Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
- Other Attractions in Handan
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 2 – 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | Combined ticket for all the attractions in the ancient city costs 90 RMB |
| Opening Hours | The city is open 24 hours a day. But most attractions operate from 9.00 to 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0310-6612266 |
Location and Transportation
Guangfu Ancient City is situated in the northeast of Handan City, Hebei Province, China, alongside the Fuyang River, approximately 20 kilometers away from the city center of Handan and about 25 kilometers away from the county government’s headquarters in Linmengguan.
To reach Guangfu Ancient City, you have several transportation options:
- Long-Distance Bus: You can take a long-distance bus from Handan to Yongnian’s old city. Once you arrive in Yongnian, you can get off at Guangfu. This is a convenient and direct way to reach the ancient city.
- Public Bus from Handan Train Station: If you’re arriving by train, head to Handan Railway Station. From there, you can catch Bus 605, which has its final stop at the east gate of Guangfu Ancient City. Buses typically run from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, departing every 10 to 15 minutes, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Highlights of Guangfu Ancient City
Historical Significance
Guangfu Ancient City’s historical significance dates back to the late Sui Dynasty when it served as the capital for Duan Jiande, the King of Xia, and Liu Heida, the King of Han Zhong. It continued to play a pivotal role as a county, prefecture, and district seat for subsequent dynasties. Its enduring history is reflected in the grand and age-old city walls, elegant and unique Hongji Bridge (known as the “sister bridge” of Zhaozhou Bridge), the enigmatic Maosui Tomb, the meticulously designed Xibazha, a Ming Dynasty-era irrigation facility still in use for agriculture, and the ancient military bunkers known as Cangbingdong.
Hongji Bridge
Hongji Bridge, structurally similar in size and design to the famous Zhaozhou Bridge, is said to have been constructed in a bridge-building competition between Lu Ban and his sister, making it the sister bridge of Zhaozhou. Besides serving as a vital transportation artery connecting the provinces of Hebei and Shandong, Hongji Bridge is an artistic masterpiece with 34 intricately carved reliefs adorning its railings and lookout columns, showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship.
Ancient City Walls
The city is enclosed by an impressive and well-preserved city wall, measuring 4.5 kilometers in circumference, 10 meters in height, and 8 meters in thickness. Within this fortified enclosure lies an area of 1.5 square kilometers, crisscrossed by over 30 streets. The history of these walls can be traced back to the Tang Dynasty. While they initially consisted of earthworks, it was during the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty that the walls were reconstructed with bricks, and four wengcheng (turret gates) were added. Surrounding the city is a protective moat, 140 meters wide, lined with graceful weeping willow trees and accessible via four drawbridges, fortifying the city like an impregnable fortress.
Video about Guangfu Ancient City
Useful Tips Summarized from Reviews
Transportation within the City: Sightseeing buses are available for 20 yuan per person, providing access to various attractions within the ancient city. Electric boats are also an option, costing 30 yuan per person for a round trip around the ancient city.
Culinary Highlights: The local cuisine in Guangfu Ancient City primarily features noodles and snacks. Notable dishes include the famous Yongnian Su Yu (Yongnian Crispy Fish) and Guangfu Zeng Zhou (Guangfu Braised Pork Elbow), both known for their distinctive flavors and textures.
Free Parking Outside the Ancient City: There is a free parking lot located outside the ancient city for visitors.
Cultural Significance: Guangfu Ancient City is renowned as the birthplace of the famous Yang-style and Wu-style Tai Chi martial arts. Locals can often be seen practicing Tai Chi in the early morning, around 6 am.
