Impressions of Handan

Previously, I only knew that Handan was the capital of the Zhao State and the idiom 'Learning to Walk in Handan'. Not much else. With some free time, I made a special trip. 1. License plates starting with Ji D. The city is really huge, with modern architecture and a vibrant street life. Public transportation is very developed. There are a tremendous number of motorcycles and e-bikes on the roads, so you have to be careful, especially when crossing intersections. For travel, getting a Handan OneCard for 88 yuan is very convenient—80% to 90% of scenic spots accept it. 2. Most people I met were warm-hearted—the old men strolling on the streets, the staff at Guangfu Ancient City, the hotel receptionists. Of course, I also met a few who left a deep impression: (1) The first time in Handan, I saw a statue at Congtai Square and wasn't sure who it was. I politely asked a middle-aged woman, 'How can you not recognize King Wuling of Zhao? Didn't you learn that in middle school?!' My warm face met a cold ass—nothing I could do. I'm always polite to polite people, but I don't need to be polite to such self-righteous types! (2) At the Handan Museum, the woman checking tickets at the entrance—was she always like that? Cold tone, lecturing manner, scornful look: 'Did you make a reservation?!' At my age, I can tell good from bad. Maybe she really thinks the place belongs to her! (3) On bus 605, I didn't know I had to tap the card when getting off. The second time I rode, I specifically asked the conductor and told her I hadn't tapped the first time. She was very cold: 'Why didn't you tap!' Of course, I had great chats with most ordinary people—chatting is a big part of travel! 3. It truly is an ancient capital. At the Handan Museum I learned history; at the Northern and Southern Xiangtang Caves I saw the most beautiful apsaras; at Guangfu Ancient City I marveled at the grandeur of the government office and the Wu Family Mansion—even the princely mansions in Beijing are no better! 4. Lots of local snacks. The enthusiastic shop owner introduced and recommended, and I found food that suited my taste. 5. More to come in installments...