Tangshan

Understand

Tangshan is a large administrative area known as a prefecture, with a population of 2,550,000 (2020). Within this prefecture are the urban areas of Tangshan proper and several other cities, including Zunhua, which is home to the Eastern Qing Tombs, as well as Luanzhou and Qian'an.

Get around

The earthquake memorial and park in the centre of town on Xinhua Road is an important focal point.

Tangshan is among the largest Chinese cities without a subway system.

Do

thumb|right|350px|Hedou Old Street in Tangshan, a popular cultural and leisure area with traditional architecture and local snacks. thumb|right|350px|Tangshan Banquet, a representative display of local cuisine.

Eat

thumb|Steam pan at table at Three Fishermen

Seafood is a big part of Tangshan cuisine, featuring an abundance of crabs, shrimp, and clams freshly caught from the Bohai Sea, during the months when a fishing ban is not in effect. To experience a wide variety of local seafood, visiting one of the city's seafood buffets is recommended.

Go next

Qinhuangdao — A seaside resort city famous for Beidaihe Beach and Shanhaiguan, where the Great Wall meets the sea. Frequent trains run from Tangshan (~2 hours). Beijing — The capital of China, rich in history and modern culture; about 1 hour away by high-speed train. Tianjin — A coastal metropolis known for European-style architecture and street food; roughly 60–90 minutes by train. Chengde — Home to the Mountain Resort (UNESCO World Heritage Site); reachable by rail or long-distance bus from Tangshan. Zunhua — Site of the Eastern Qing Tombs, one of China’s most important imperial mausoleum complexes; an easy day trip from Tangshan.