Weekend Getaway: Off-the-Beaten-Path Cities Just 1 Hour from Beijing

Zhengding Ancient Town Travel Guide • Must-Visit Attractions: Longxing Temple is renowned as the "Foremost Temple Outside Beijing." Rongguo Mansion served as a filming location for *Dream of the Red Chamber*. The Zhengding Ancient City Wall, a Ming Dynasty relic, offers scenic views from the South Gate Tower. Zhao Yun Temple showcases the life and deeds of the legendary general. • Food Recommendations: Try the ribs at Zhen Ding Haojia Ribs, sample the traditional *hele* noodles at Chen Hezi Hele Village, and don’t miss local specialties like Zhengding Eight Bowls. • Accommodation: For upscale stays, check into Jianguo Puyin Hotel (Shijiazhuang Zhengding Ancient Town Branch), conveniently located within the ancient town. For budget-friendly options, GERISLE Geyu Hotel (Zhengding Ancient Town Small Commodities Night Market Branch) offers great value and a lively atmosphere. Zhuozhou Travel Guide • Must-Visit Attractions: Zhuozhou Museum blends classical gardens with modern architecture, offering insights into local history. Huayang Park is perfect for leisurely strolls. Gao Family Courtyard, built in the late Qing Dynasty, exudes historical charm. • Food Recommendations: Savor Zhuozhou tribute rice and Dukang noodles at various local restaurants. • Accommodation: For luxury, Shuian Huacheng Hotel provides free parking and late-night snacks. Budget travelers can opt for GreenTree Inn (Zhuozhou Railway Station City Government Branch), with convenient transport and parking. Bazhou Travel Guide • Must-Visit Attractions: Shengfang Ancient Town, known as the "Water Town of the North," features unique architecture like Shengfang Museum and Wang Family Courtyard. Dabeisi Temple is grand and awe-inspiring. Bazhou is rich in hot springs—relax at Mingtang Hot Spring Resort. • Food Recommendations: Don’t miss Shengfang crispy candy, Bazhou smoked fish, and fresh river delicacies like Shengfang river crab. • Transportation: Take a high-speed train to Bazhou West Station from Beijing or Tianjin, or drive for easy access. Dingzhou Travel Guide • Must-Visit Attractions: Dingzhou Museum houses three national treasures. Kaiyuan Temple Pagoda is one of China’s tallest ancient brick pagodas. Dingzhou Imperial Examination Hall is a well-preserved ancient exam site. Visit the Double Scholar Trees at Dingzhou Confucian Temple. • Food Recommendations: Head to Chongwen Street or Hui Muslim Street for crispy baked cakes, Dingzhou stewed dishes, and hand-torn sausages. Zhongshan Banquet offers Han culture-themed dining. • Accommodation: For upscale stays, Dingzhou Xiangjiang Wanda Jin Hua Hotel overlooks Times Park. Budget travelers can choose UP Huayi Smart Travel Hotel (Dingzhou Ancient Town Chongwen Street Branch), surrounded by great food and convenient transport.