Xi'An to Handan

Language

The official language spoken in both Xi'An and Handan is Mandarin Chinese. However, local dialects may also be spoken, such as Shaanxi dialect in Xi'An and Handan dialect in Handan. English proficiency is limited, so it's recommended to learn basic Mandarin phrases or carry a translation app.

Currency

The official currency used in both Xi'An and Handan is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). It's advisable to exchange your currency before traveling or use ATMs upon arrival. Major credit cards are accepted in some tourist areas, but it's best to carry cash for smaller purchases and local markets.

Distance

The distance between Xi'An and Handan is approximately 720 kilometers (447 miles). The travel time varies depending on the transportation method chosen.

How to Reach

There are several ways to travel from Xi'An to Handan:

• By Train: The fastest and most convenient option. The high-speed train takes around 3-4 hours.
• By Bus: A more budget-friendly option, but it takes longer, around 10-12 hours.
• By Plane: There are no direct flights between Xi'An and Handan. You can fly to Shijiazhuang Zhengding International Airport (SJW) and take a train or bus to Handan.
• By Car: If you prefer a road trip, it takes approximately 8-10 hours, depending on traffic.

Expenses

The cost of traveling from Xi'An to Handan can vary depending on the mode of transportation, accommodation, and activities you choose. Here's a rough estimate:

• Train Ticket: 200-500 CNY (one way)
• Bus Ticket: 100-200 CNY (one way)
• Plane Ticket: 500-1000 CNY (one way)
• Accommodation: 100-300 CNY per night
• Food and Drinks: 50-100 CNY per day
• Activities and Attractions: 50-200 CNY per day

Best Time to Go

The best time to visit Handan is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold and dry.

What to Eat

Handan is known for its delicious cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Handan Braised Chicken: A local delicacy made with tender chicken braised in a savory sauce.
• Donkey Meat Dumplings: Unique and flavorful dumplings filled with donkey meat.
• Fried Lotus Root Slices: Crispy and addictive lotus root slices fried to perfection.
• Liangpi Noodles: Cold rice noodles served with a variety of toppings and sauces.
• Steamed Buns with Jujube Paste: Sweet and fluffy buns filled with sweet jujube paste.

Where to Go

Handan offers a range of attractions for visitors:

• Handan Museum: Showcases the history and culture of Handan.
• Guandi Temple: A historical temple dedicated to the Chinese deity Guandi.
• Zhaoling Park: A scenic park with a lake, gardens, and ancient tombs.
• Yuntao Temple: A Buddhist temple with stunning architecture and murals.
• Handan Economic and Technological Development Zone: A modern area with high-tech companies and research institutions.

FAQ

Is a visa required to travel from Xi'An to Handan?

No, a visa is not required for travel within China.

What is the voltage in Handan?

220 volts, 50 hertz.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Handan?

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Handan. Bottled water is widely available.

What is the time zone in Handan?

China Standard Time (CST), UTC+8.

Are there any direct flights from Xi'An to Handan?

No, there are no direct flights between Xi'An and Handan.