Guangfu Ancient City, also known as Yongnian City, Guangfu Old City, or Water City, is located in the southeastern part of Hebei Province, 45 kilometers northeast of Handan City, on the banks of the Fuyang River. It is situated in the Yongnian Depression, about 25 kilometers from the county government in Linmingguan. Historically, it served as the administrative center of Guangping Prefecture, hence the name Guangfu. It is now a key cultural heritage site in Hebei Province.
Guangfu Ancient City is a "water city," surrounded by thousands of acres of wetland and expansive reed beds. The city is encircled by water, offering a rare Northern Chinese picturesque water town scenery. A smooth, flowing moat surrounds the ancient city, and beyond it lies the 46,000-acre Yongnian Depression. The land is higher in the north and lower in the south, allowing water to naturally flow. The area is home to perennial water accumulation, historically known as a significant natural fishery. The old Tan Marsh and other deep-water areas, including the moat, will be used for artificial breeding and release of crucian carp, river shrimp, and river crabs. In shallow waters, aquatic plants such as reeds, lotus roots, and water chestnuts will be cultivated, restoring the "water city" beauty of Guangfu.
Additionally, Guangfu is the birthplace of Yang-style and Wu-style Taijiquan. It is a city that integrates the characteristics of an ancient city, a water city, and a Taiji city—features that set it apart from other ancient cities. The former homes of Yang Luchan, the founder of Yang-style Taijiquan, and Wu Yuxiang, the founder of Wu-style Taijiquan, are well preserved.
Historically, Guangfu Ancient City served as the administrative center for various regions, including Qu Liang County, Guangping Prefecture, Wuan Prefecture, Yongnian County, and others. The city's broad river system, low-lying terrain, and water-surrounded position made it easy to defend and difficult to attack, making it a key military strategic location throughout the ages.
During the Ming Dynasty, the original earthen city walls were rebuilt with brick, and the structure has remained largely intact. The ancient city walls of Guangfu are notable for their military defense features such as the watchtower, corner towers, horse paths, city gates, drawbridges, and gate towers. These elements showcase the perfect execution of traditional Chinese city wall construction techniques and layout, holding significant architectural and aesthetic value. Guangfu's city walls hold an important position in the history of ancient Chinese fortifications.
Throughout history, Guangfu has attracted numerous officials, scholars, and poets. Famous figures like the Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai, late Tang poet Sikong Shu, Yuan Dynasty statesman Wang Pan, and Qing Dynasty scholars Zheng Banqiao and Fang Guancheng have all left behind poems and artwork inspired by the city. For example, Fang Guancheng, Governor of Zhili in the Qing Dynasty, composed a poem during his visit to Guangfu: "The rice fields stretch over a thousand acres, and the reed banks flow like a breeze. Coming here, the scent of flowers fills the air, the first light of dawn by the tower reflects on the water. Beyond, boats are swaying lightly, and the scenery is peaceful, with fish and birds in harmony." This poem captures the exquisite beauty of Guangfu, likening it to a small southern Jiangnan-style water town in the north.
While exploring the ancient, water, and Taiji city of Guangfu, visitors can also enjoy the city's famous culinary delights. Guangfu's local delicacies include Zeng Zhou, Mingguan donkey meat sausages, Guangfu crispy fish, Chen Yi tofu skin, Guangfu marinated chicken, pickled vegetables, and fragrant sugar-coated treats. These delightful dishes are part of the treasure trove of flavors within this historic city.
Guangfu Ancient City, a hidden gem in the historic city of Handan, has withstood the test of time, offering a unique encounter for those who visit.
