To be honest, I didn’t have high expectations before my visit to Shijiazhuang. As a native of Hebei, I didn’t hold a favorable impression of the entire province, and Shijiazhuang, as the provincial capital, had never been particularly appealing to me, a resident of the northern part of the province. (Those who understand, understand.) With a mindset of embracing the unexpected, I decided to visit Shijiazhuang for a couple of days during the May Day holiday. However, my experience far exceeded my initial expectations.
What struck me most about Shijiazhuang was its exceptional landscaping. The city has done a remarkable job in this aspect, with tall trees and beautiful flowers abound. It’s not an exaggeration to say that walking down the streets felt like a dreamy return to Nanjing. The flowers were truly fragrant, a refreshing contrast to the绿化 levels I was accustomed to in Beijing. Additionally, the weather during my stay was delightful, with a refreshing breeze that made the experience particularly enjoyable.
The hotels offered great value for money, with a reasonable price of 165 yuan per night during the busy holiday period. Such affordability is unheard of in other cities. The food was also reasonably priced, with no single meal exceeding 100 yuan for two people. The public transportation system, including the metro, was convenient and inexpensive. Shijiazhuang boasts three metro lines, providing a decent coverage and ease of access.
The city exudes a strong sense of life and is incredibly inclusive. There were numerous street performers singing, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. The entertainment options were also quite diverse. The people of Shijiazhuang are warm and welcoming, free from the distinctions of locals and outsiders that can be found in other places. Instead, they embody a down-to-earth and inclusive spirit. I have grown fond of this city with the license plate prefix “Ji A,” and I look forward to returning in the future. Hopefully, next year, Shijiazhuang will offer me an opportunity to contribute to the development of my “hometown.”
#Shijiazhuang #Travel #Hebei
