Overall Score
In the northwest of Chinas Hebei Province lies the city of Zhangyakou. Its territory is surrounded by a plain surrounded by massifs. The city is crossed by the Ynhui River, dividing it into two parts. The two banks are joined together by a number of different sizes and structures. To see the magnificent panoramic view of the Great Wall of China, the viewpoint on the Great Wall of China provides a fascinating view of Zhanggyeongyakou.
In ancient times, the city was called Calygian, which translates as Gateway to the Great Wall. From the moment of its founding, the city occupied a strategic position as a frontier outpost. For a long time it played the role of the main gate. The wealthy merchants of the Russian Empire passed through China from the Far East of Mongolia. Mostly they brought with them fur from the Siberian forests, which was a common commodity in the local area.
In the late 19th century, a village of tea merchants settled in the city. They transported their goods by the famous route called The Way of the Tea. The beginning of the 20th century was marked by an economic boom for the city. It was greatly influenced by the construction of the railroad that connected China with Beijing. Since May 1995, it has been open for trade relations with many countries of the world.
Modern urban areas are drowning in the extensive greenery of parks and alleys. Large office buildings and residential complexes rise up along the wide streets. Two railway stations are in operation. Multiple educational institutions are open. Some of the students are from other countries.
The historic buildings are an authentic decoration of a modern city. One of these is the Tower of the Clock, which was built in 1482 during the reign of King Minh Ching-hui. In the midst of the highlands beyond the city limits is an ancient monastery. The structure is well preserved today.
The city has excellent connections to many communities in China because of its developed transportation system. It is noteworthy that often the mode of transportation used by citizens is a regular bicycle.
Overall Score
- Air quality: 91 US AQI Moderate. Air quality is acceptable. However, there may be a risk for some people, particularly those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.
- Tap water: No, not drinkable
- Religious government: Non-religious
- Population: 900,000 people
- GDP: $8,126 / year
- Power outlets: 230V50Hz
- Internet: 2 Mbps Internet in Zhangjiakou is fast averaging 16 Mbps but the Great Firewall slows down speeds to foreign websites by 8x to 2 Mbps.
- Best wireless: China Mobile
- Pay without cash: No, cash only esp. for foreigners because WeChat is very hard to set up
- Tipping: Tipping in China is generally uncommon and can even be considered rude or embarrassing in some circumstances. Seriously. Leaving money on a table in an authentic restaurant may confuse a staff member or cause them stress. … Even worse, gratuity is illegal in airports and some establishments.
- Apartment listings: Ganji
- Apartments: Airbnb
- Hotels: Booking.com
- More hotels: Hotels.com
- Best taxi: Didi
- Best short-haul air carrier: Hainan
- Best intl air carrier: China Southern Airlines
- Monthly costs for expat: $1100
- Monthly costs for family: $2700
- Monthly costs for local: $800
- Meal: $1.9
- Small Cola: $0.6
- Beer 1 Pint: $2.5
- Coffee: $4
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