Map of Zhangjiakou, China

Zhangjiakou, located in the Hebei province of China, is a city that beautifully blends historical significance with modern development. Known for its strategic location as a gateway to Beijing, Zhangjiakou has emerged as a prominent city in northern China. The city gained international recognition as one of the host cities for the 2022 Winter Olympics, which has spurred further development and interest in winter sports.

Zhangjiakou's economy is diverse, with key industries including renewable energy, tourism, and agriculture. The city is also focusing on sustainable development, leveraging its natural resources to promote green energy initiatives. With its rich cultural heritage and modern amenities, Zhangjiakou offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation.

Pollution
89.66
About this index

History and Culture

Zhangjiakou has a rich history that dates back over a thousand years. Historically, it served as a crucial military and trade post, known as the 'Gateway to Beijing.' The city's strategic importance is highlighted by its proximity to the Great Wall of China, which passes through the region. This historical significance has left a lasting impact on the city's cultural landscape.

Culturally, Zhangjiakou is a melting pot of various ethnic groups, including Han, Hui, and Mongolian communities. This diversity is reflected in the city's festivals, cuisine, and daily life. The city is home to several cultural institutions, including museums and theaters, which celebrate its rich heritage and promote local arts.

Notable cultural landmarks include the Dajingmen Gate, a significant section of the Great Wall, and the Zhangjiakou Museum, which offers insights into the region's history and culture. The city's vibrant festivals, such as the Lantern Festival and local temple fairs, showcase its cultural vibrancy and community spirit.

Things to do in Zhangjiakou

Zhangjiakou offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. For outdoor enthusiasts, the city is a paradise for winter sports, with several ski resorts such as the Genting Resort Secret Garden and Wanlong Ski Resort, which were venues for the 2022 Winter Olympics.

For those interested in history and culture, visiting the Dajingmen Gate and exploring the sections of the Great Wall in the area are must-do activities. The Zhangjiakou Museum provides a deep dive into the local history and cultural evolution of the region.

The city also boasts beautiful natural landscapes, such as the Bashang Grasslands, which are perfect for hiking and photography. Local cuisine is another highlight, with traditional dishes like Zhangjiakou lamb hotpot offering a taste of the region's culinary heritage.

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for China reflect how livable a city in China is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.

Best to WorstUpdated: Jan, 2025

Weather in Zhangjiakou

Zhangjiakou, China experiences a continental monsoon climate characterized by distinct seasons with cold, dry winters and hot, humid summers. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 16 inches (400 mm), with July being the wettest month, averaging about 4 inches (100 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 50°F (10°C) in March to 77°F (25°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 2 inches (50 mm).
  • Summer (June to August) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 50°F (10°C) in March to 77°F (25°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 2 inches (50 mm).
  • Autumn (September to November) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 50°F (10°C) in March to 77°F (25°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 2 inches (50 mm).
  • Winter (December to February) - Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 50°F (10°C) in March to 77°F (25°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with May receiving the most precipitation, averaging around 2 inches (50 mm).
Notable Weather Events
  • Occasional summer thunderstorms
  • Winter cold snaps with temperatures dropping below freezing
  • Rare occurrences of heavy snowfall during winter
Overall, Zhangjiakou's climate offers a mix of hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters, with moderate rainfall primarily occurring in the summer months.

Zhangjiakou's Political Climate

Communist Party of China

Zhangjiakou, located in the Hebei province of China, is a city with a rich political history and a dynamic political climate. As part of China, Zhangjiakou operates under the centralized political system of the Communist Party of China (CPC). The city's governance is heavily influenced by national policies and directives, with local leaders typically being members of the CPC. This political structure ensures that Zhangjiakou's policies align closely with the broader goals of the Chinese government.

Historically, Zhangjiakou has been a strategic location due to its proximity to Beijing and its role as a gateway to Inner Mongolia. This has shaped its political and economic development over the years. In recent times, Zhangjiakou has gained international attention as one of the host cities for the 2022 Winter Olympics, which has brought significant infrastructure development and investment to the area.

Zhangjiakou is actively pursuing progressive policies, particularly in the realm of environmental sustainability. The city has been at the forefront of China's renewable energy initiatives, with significant investments in wind and solar power. These efforts are part of a broader national strategy to reduce carbon emissions and promote green energy.

The political climate in Zhangjiakou is also characterized by a focus on economic development and modernization. The city is part of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei economic region, which is a key area for China's economic planning. This has led to policies aimed at improving transportation, industry, and urban development, reflecting the city's strategic importance in regional planning.

Political Quick Facts
Voter Turnout - N/A (as local leaders are appointed)
City Governance - Mayor-Council system under CPC leadership
Composition - Predominantly Communist Party members
Recent Political Changes - Infrastructure developments for the 2022 Winter Olympics
Engagement - Moderate, with civic activities largely organized by government bodies
Political Scorecard - High on governance efficiency and alignment with national policies
Legislative Priorities - Renewable energy development, Infrastructure modernization, Economic integration with Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region
Public Opinion - Generally supportive of government policies, with a focus on economic growth and environmental sustainability
Notable Political Figures
  • Wang Dongfeng - Former Party Secretary of Hebei, influential in regional development policies.
  • Zhang Qingwei - Governor of Hebei, known for promoting economic reforms and innovation.
  • Li Hongzhong - Prominent political figure in the region, involved in national-level policy discussions.
Zhangjiakou

Quick Facts

Zhangjiakou

"Key Takeaways"

Zhangjiakou is a key city in northern China, known for its historical significance and modern development.

The city played a significant role in the 2022 Winter Olympics, boosting its profile as a winter sports destination.

Zhangjiakou's economy is diverse, with strong sectors in renewable energy, tourism, and agriculture.