Located in Yongnian District, Handan City, Hebei Province, Guangfu Ancient City is a national 5A-level scenic area with over 2,600 years of history. Surrounded by water and known as the "Water Town of the North", it's also the birthplace of Yang-style and Wu-style Taijiquan, making it a unique integration of ancient city, water town and Taiji culture.
City Features
- Water Town: 140m-wide moat with 30.6 sq.km water area.
- City Walls: Well-preserved Ming Dynasty walls, 4.5km perimeter, 12m high.
- Layout: Typical northern prefectural city pattern with crisscrossing streets.
Main Attractions
- Ancient City Walls: Walk along for panoramic views of waterways and wetlands.
- Hongji Bridge: Ming Dynasty stone arch bridge, resembling Zhaozhou Bridge.
- Yang Luchan's Former Residence: Home of Yang-style Taiji founder, with historical exhibits.
- Wu Yuxiang's Former Residence: Home of Wu-style Taiji founder, now a Taiji museum.
Cultural Values
- Taiji Culture: Birthplace of two major Taijiquan schools.
- Ancient Architecture: Exemplary northern prefectural city architecture.
- Wetland Ecosystem: Rare city-water coexistence in North China Plain.
Experiences
- Taiji Performances: Daily scheduled Taijiquan demonstrations.
- Boat Tour: Cruise around moat and wetlands.
- Night Tour: Light shows and night views.
- Taiji Classes: Short-term Taijiquan experience courses available.
Visitor Information
- Opening Hours: 8:00-18:00 (extended to 19:00 in summer).
- Ticket Price: Combo ticket 90 yuan (includes walls and former residences).
- Transportation:
From Handan: Bus 605 direct
Drive: Exit at Yongnian on Jinggang'ao Expressway
Travel Tips
- Best Seasons: April-June for lotuses; September-October for autumn.
- Recommended Route: East Gate→City Walls→Hongji Bridge→Yang's Residence→Wu's Residence→Pier.
- Local Food: Guangfu crispy fish, donkey sausage, Zengzhou pork.