Baoding, a city in southern Hebei Province with over 2,300 years of history, is a hidden gem blending imperial heritage, natural beauty, and delicious local flavors. Often overshadowed by nearby Beijing and Shijiazhuang, it offers unique experiences for travelers seeking an authentic taste of northern China. From ancient government buildings to serene lakes and iconic snacks, here are the top things to do in Baoding.

1. Step into Imperial History at Zhili Governor’s Office

No trip to Baoding is complete without visiting the Zhili Governor’s Office (Zhili Zongdu Shuyuan), one of China’s best-preserved imperial administrative buildings. Built during the Qing Dynasty (1636–1912), it served as the headquarters for the governor of Zhili—a vast region covering modern-day Hebei, Tianjin, and parts of Shandong.

• What to See:
  The complex features traditional Chinese courtyard layouts with red walls, green tiles, and wooden pavilions. Don’t miss the “Grand Hall” (Zhengting), where governors held official meetings and ceremonies, and the “Exhibition Hall of Zhili Governors,” which displays historical documents, old photos, and replicas of imperial uniforms. The “Back Garden” (Houyuan) is a peaceful spot with lotus ponds and ancient trees, perfect for escaping the city buzz.
• Practical Info:
  Ticket: ¥30 per adult; free for children under 1.2 meters. Open 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (April–October) and 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (November–March). Take Baoding Bus 1, 4, or 26 to “Zhili Governor’s Office” stop.
• Pro Tip: Hire a local guide (¥50) to learn stories about famous governors, like Li Hongzhang, who once worked here—their tales bring the building’s history to life.

2. Admire Ancient Architecture at Baoding Ancient Lotus Flower Pond

Just a 10-minute walk from the Governor’s Office lies Baoding Ancient Lotus Flower Pond (Baoding Gu Lianhua Chi), a classical Chinese garden with a history dating back to the Jin Dynasty (1115–1234). It’s especially famous for its lotus blooms and well-preserved pavilions.

• What to Do:
  Wander along the stone bridges crossing the pond—from June to August, thousands of pink and white lotus flowers bloom, creating a stunning scene. Visit the “Lotus Flower Pagoda” (Lianhua Ta), a seven-story brick tower built in the Ming Dynasty, for panoramic views of the garden. The “Study under the Lotus” (Lianxia Shuwu) is a historic library where scholars once read and wrote; today, it displays ancient books and calligraphy.
• Practical Info:
  Ticket: ¥20 per adult. Open 7:30 AM–6:00 PM (summer) and 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (winter). Combine your visit with the Governor’s Office for a half-day of cultural exploration.

3. Explore Nature at Baiyangdian Lake (Anxin County)

A 1-hour drive from central Baoding, Baiyangdian Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northern China and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Known as the “Pearl of North China,” it’s a paradise for nature lovers, with 143 small islands, reed marshes, and clear waters.

• What to Do:
  • Take a wooden boat tour (¥80 per boat, fits 4–6 people) through the reed beds—you’ll spot water birds like egrets and herons, and pass by traditional fishing villages where locals still live in stilt houses.
  • Visit Xiongan New Area (near Baiyangdian), a modern eco-city built around the lake—its wetlands and green spaces showcase China’s efforts in environmental protection.
  • Try “lotus root starch” (lian ou fen) and “braised fish” at lakeside restaurants—dishes made with fresh ingredients from the lake.
• Practical Info:
  Ticket: ¥40 (lake entry); boat rentals extra. Best visited from April to October (avoid winter, when the lake freezes). Take a tourist bus from Baoding Bus Station to Anxin County (1 hour, ¥15), then a taxi to the lake (10 minutes, ¥10).

4. Taste Baoding’s Iconic Snack: Donkey Burger (Lürou Huoshao)

No visit to Baoding is complete without trying donkey burger (lürou huoshao)—the city’s most famous food. This savory snack consists of slow-cooked donkey meat (tender and flavorful) stuffed into a crispy, baked flatbread.

• Where to Eat:
  • Laobai Lürou Huoshao: A century-old restaurant on South Street (Nan Dajie). Their donkey meat is simmered for 6 hours with spices, and the bread is baked fresh hourly. A basic burger costs ¥12; add a bowl of “donkey bone soup” (¥8) for a full meal.
  • Xinghua Lou: Another popular spot near the Governor’s Office, known for its “spicy donkey burger” (¥15) and “sweet soybean milk” (¥3)—a classic breakfast combo.
• Food Tip: Donkey meat is lean and high in protein, so it’s a healthier alternative to beef or pork. If you’re hesitant, start with a small portion—most locals agree it’s delicious!

5. Visit Baoding Military Academy Memorial Hall

History buffs shouldn’t miss the Baoding Military Academy Memorial Hall, dedicated to China’s first modern military academy (1902–1923). The academy trained over 10,000 officers, including famous generals like Zhu De and Ye Jianying, who played key roles in China’s 20th-century history.

• What to See:
  The memorial hall is built on the original academy site, with restored classrooms, dormitories, and a parade ground. Exhibits include old military uniforms, weapons (like rifles and swords), and letters from cadets. The “Hall of Fame” honors distinguished graduates with photos and biographies.
• Practical Info:
  Free admission (ID/passport required). Open 9:00 AM–4:30 PM (closed Mondays). Take Baoding Bus 15 or 27 to “Military Academy” stop.
• Pro Tip: Visit on weekends—sometimes there are reenactments of academy drills, where actors dress in early 20th-century military uniforms.

6. Hike or Relax at Cangshan Scenic Area

For outdoor enthusiasts, Cangshan Scenic Area (40 minutes by car from Baoding) offers lush forests, mountain trails, and ancient temples. The main peak, “Cangshan Top,” stands 1,094 meters high and provides sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.

• What to Do:
  • Hike the “Green Trail” (2.5 km, 1.5 hours)—an easy path through pine forests, with benches along the way to rest.
  • Visit Cangshan Temple, a Tang Dynasty temple hidden in the mountains. Its main hall has a 3-meter-tall bronze Buddha statue, and the courtyard has a 1,000-year-old ginkgo tree.
  • Have a picnic at the “Mountain Lake” (Shanhu)—a small lake with clear water, perfect for photos.
• Practical Info:
  Ticket: ¥50 per adult. Open 8:00 AM–5:30 PM (summer) and 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (winter). Drive or take a tour bus from Baoding (¥30 round-trip).

7. Shop for Local Crafts at Baoding Old Street

Baoding Old Street (Laojie), near the Governor’s Office, is a pedestrian street lined with traditional shops selling local crafts and souvenirs. It’s a great place to pick up gifts for friends and family.

• What to Buy:
  • Baoding Yangliuqing New Year Paintings: Colorful woodblock prints depicting scenes from Chinese folklore—small prints cost ¥20–50.
  • Donkey Hide Gelatin (Ejiao): A famous local product used in traditional Chinese medicine—look for reputable shops (prices start at ¥100 per box).
  • Handmade Fans: Paper fans with paintings of Baoding’s scenery—affordable (¥15–30) and lightweight for travel.
• Tip: Bargain politely—most shopkeepers are willing to lower prices by 10–20% for tourists.

Final Tips for Visiting Baoding

• Best Time to Go: Spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October)—mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and lotus viewing.
• Transport: Baoding has a high-speed railway station connected to Beijing (1 hour, ¥50) and Shijiazhuang (30 minutes, ¥25). Within the city, buses and taxis are cheap and convenient.
• Language: English is limited outside major attractions—carry a translation app (like iFlytek Translator) and learn basic Chinese phrases (e.g., “thank you” = “xiexie”).

Baoding may not be as famous as Beijing, but its rich history, natural beauty, and delicious food make it a worthwhile destination. Whether you’re exploring imperial buildings, boating on a lake, or biting into a donkey burger, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of northern China’s charm.