Handan - Zhao Kingdom Ruins Zhaowangcheng Yizhi

The ruins of the old Zhao capital (Zhaowangcheng Yizhi) lie 4km/2.5mi southwest of the present town center. The town was divided into three districts, eastern, western and northern. In the western section visitors can see the remains of the 284m/852ft long and 265m/795ft wide Dragon Terrace (Longtai), where the main palace is thought to have stood.

The Congtai Platform, 26m/85ft high, will be found in the northeastern section of the site.

Experts differ regarding the date of this terrace. Legend has it that it was built for King Vuling (reigned 325-299 BC), the ruler of the Zhao kingdom, and served him as a viewing platform during military exercises and also for watching singing and dancing performances.

Near the platform stands the Temple of the Seven Wise Ones (Qixian Ci) dedicated to Lin Xiangru, Lian Po and five more personalities from the time of the Warring Kingdoms (474-221 BC).