Zhengzhou Travel: Top Things to Do in China’s Central Plains
Welcome to Zhengzhou! As the capital of Henan Province, Zhengzhou is also known as China’s “Crossroads.” It is a city that seamlessly blends ancient history with modern vitality. For international visitors, Zhengzhou serves as a vital gateway to explore the renowned Shaolin Temple and delve into China’s ancient civilization.
This Zhengzhou travel guide will help you plan your itinerary with ease.
I. Must-Do Activities in Zhengzhou
1. Visit Shaolin Temple
What it is: Shaolin Temple is one of the world’s most renowned Buddhist monasteries and the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu. Witness spectacular martial arts performances and experience the temple’s serene atmosphere.
How to Get There: Take a bus or train from downtown Zhengzhou to Dengfeng City, then transfer to a taxi or local bus. The entire journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Tip: Depart early to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as there is significant walking involved.
2. Explore the Henan Museum
What it is: One of China’s most significant museums, housing countless precious artifacts from the Central Plains region. Here, you can delve into thousands of years of Chinese history.
Highlights: Must-see treasures include the Jiahu Bone Flute and the Lady Fu Hao Owl-shaped Wine Vessel.
Tip: Admission is free, and the museum is typically closed on Mondays. Allow at least 3 hours for your visit.
3. Stroll Through Zhengzhou’s Old Town and Near the February 7th Memorial Tower
What it is: The February 7th Memorial Tower is Zhengzhou’s iconic landmark, commemorating the 1923 Jinghan Railway Strike. The surrounding Dehua Street is a bustling commercial area perfect for shopping and sampling street snacks.
Experience: This is a great spot to immerse yourself in Zhengzhou’s modern urban life.
4. Savor Authentic Henan Cuisine
Zhengzhou is a paradise for noodle lovers. Must-try dishes:
Hui Mian: Zhengzhou’s signature noodle dish. Made with wide noodles in a rich broth, typically served with lamb, glass noodles, and shredded tofu. Its robust flavor makes it immensely popular.
Hula Tang: A spicy meat broth infused with peppercorns, meat, and vegetables. This local breakfast favorite is often enjoyed with fried dough sticks or pan-fried buns.
Yellow River Carp: Fresh carp from the nearby Yellow River, prized for its tender, flavorful meat. A classic dish for entertaining guests.
5. Experience the Magnificent Scenery of Mount Song and Shaolin Temple
What it is: Mount Song, one of China’s Five Great Mountains (Zhongyue), with Shaolin Temple nestled at its base. Nature lovers can take the Mount Song Shaolin Temple cable car for breathtaking views.
Activities: Beyond temple visits, hiking and enjoying the natural landscapes are excellent options.
II. Recommended Itinerary
One-Day Express Tour:
Morning: Visit Shaolin Temple, watch martial arts performances, and explore the Pagoda Forest.
Afternoon: Return to downtown and visit the Henan Museum.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Dehua Street or the “Hui Mian” (stir-fried noodles) food street.
Two-Day In-Depth Experience:
Day 1: Spend the entire day exploring Shaolin Temple and the surrounding Songshan area.
Day 2: Visit the Henan Museum in the morning. Spend the afternoon exploring Zhengzhou’s eastern district (a modern new area). Enjoy local cuisine in the evening.
III. Practical Tips for Foreign Visitors
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather.
Transportation Options:
Air: Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport connects to major Chinese cities and select international destinations.
Train: Zhengzhou serves as a high-speed rail hub, providing convenient access to cities like Beijing and Xi’an.
City Transportation: Zhengzhou’s metro and bus systems facilitate easy travel. Taxis and ride-hailing services like DiDi are also widely used.
Language: Chinese is the primary language. Prepare destination names and addresses in Chinese beforehand, or use translation apps.
Payment: Alipay and WeChat Pay are highly prevalent. Carry some cash, as some street vendors may only accept it.
We hope this guide helps you plan your Zhengzhou trip effectively. Enjoy your journey in Zhengzhou!
