Leisurely Travelling in Leting: Discovering the Hidden Beauty of a Small Town
Leting, a small town in North China, has been a famous tourist destination for its tranquil environment, rich history, and unique culture. With its various tourist attractions, Leting offers visitors a wide range of activities, from cultural exploration to outdoor adventure. This article will provide you with a travel guide to Leting, emphasizing its highlights and tips for a self-driving tour.
I. Getting to Leting
Leting is located in the eastern part of Hebei Province, about 200 kilometers away from Beijing. Self-driving is the most convenient way to explore this small town. The whole journey takes about three hours from Beijing, passing through the G45 Expressway and the Jingtang Expressway. For those who prefer public transport, taking the bus from Beijing to Leting is also available. The bus ticket costs about 40 yuan and takes around four hours.
II. Exploring Cultural Attractions
Leting has a long history, dating back to the Spring and Autumn Period (770 BC - 476 BC). It is home to numerous cultural attractions, such as the Leting Ancient City, Hangu Pass, and Ninghe County. Leting Ancient City is the most significant historical site in the town. Built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the ancient city is known for its well-preserved city walls, gates, and towers. Hangu Pass, located 40 kilometers away from Leting, is a famous military stronghold of ancient China. It has played an essential role in defending the capital against northern invaders. Ninghe County, on the other hand, is famous for its traditional handicrafts, including paper-cutting, embroidery, and straw weaving.
III. Enjoying Outdoor Adventure
Leting is also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. The town boasts various natural landscapes, such as the Leting Wetland Reserve, Leting Salt Lake, and the scenic area of Mount Langya. The Leting Wetland Reserve is the largest wetland in North China, with an area of over 10,000 hectares. It is well-known for its diversity of flora and fauna, including rare birds, such as the Siberian Crane and the Oriental White Stork. Leting Salt Lake, on the other hand, is a significant inland saltwater lake, covering an area of over 50 square kilometers. The salt lake is not only a natural habitat for salt-loving plants and animals but also a place for salt production. Mount Langya, located 90 kilometers from Leting, is a famous mountain range, famous for its beautiful scenery and a great place for hiking and camping.
IV. Experiencing Local Culture
Exploring local culture is an essential part of traveling. Leting has its unique customs and traditions that visitors can experience, such as the Leting Opera and the Leting Wedding. Leting Opera, a regional opera form in North China, is known for its lively rhythm and humorous style. It has a history of over 200 years and is listed as a national intangible cultural heritage. Leting Wedding, on the other hand, is a traditional wedding ceremony in the town, characterized by its grandeur, etiquette, and customs.
In conclusion, Leting is a hidden gem that worth exploring for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and unique customs. With this travel guide, we hope to provide you with useful information and insights for your self-driving tour in Leting. Remember, follow traffic rules, respect the local culture, and enjoy your journey.
