2026 Henan Travel Guide: Top Attractions in Zhengzhou, Dengfeng & Kaifeng
Henan Travel Guide
Henan, the cradle of Chinese civilization and the heartland of the Central Plains along the Yellow River, is steeped in thousands of years of history and culture. For international travelers, exploring the heart of Henan—the three cities of Zhengzhou, Dengfeng, and Kaifeng—is like embarking on a journey through time and space. From the legends of Shaolin Kung Fu to the splendor of the Northern Song Dynasty’s imperial capital, and from the vibrancy of modern cities to the tranquility of ancient ruins, this guide will take you on a tour of the highlights of these three cities, helping you plan an unforgettable trip to Henan.
Henan Travel Guide — Must-See Attractions in Zhengzhou
1. Henan Museum — A Treasure Trove of Chinese Civilization
Why it’s a must-see: One of China’s top museums, housing over 170,000 artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the Ming and Qing dynasties. Highlights include the Jiahu Bone Flute (the world’s oldest wind instrument), the Fu Hao Owl-shaped Vase (a masterpiece of Shang Dynasty bronze ware), and the Cloud-Patterned Bronze Vase (a masterpiece of lost-wax casting). With clear displays and comprehensive English audio guides, it’s the perfect place to quickly gain an understanding of Henan’s history.
Practical Information: Admission is free, but booking via the official WeChat account is required. We recommend setting aside 2–3 hours and renting an English audio guide.
2. Erqi Memorial Tower — A Landmark of the City’s Spirit
Why You Must Visit: These twin towers commemorate the 1923 Jinghan Railway workers’ strike and serve as a symbol of Zhengzhou. Climb the towers for panoramic views of the city center and explore the exhibitions inside to learn about the history of China’s early labor movement. At night, the towers are illuminated with dazzling lights, making them a perfect backdrop for photos.
Practical Information: Free admission; ID registration required. The surrounding area features the bustling Erqi Square and Dehua Pedestrian Street, offering a full range of shopping and dining options.
3. Yellow River Scenic Area — The Magnificence of the Mother River
Why it’s a must-visit: The Yellow River is the cradle of Chinese civilization, and here you can experience the majesty of the Mother River up close. Key highlights include the giant statues of the Yellow Emperor and Emperor Yan (106 meters tall, commemorating the ancestors of the Chinese nation), Yellow River cruise boats (to experience the poetic imagery of “The waters of the Yellow River come from the heavens”), and the Yellow River National Geological Museum (to learn about the river’s geology and management). The scenic area also features a peacock garden and a cable car, making it ideal for family outings.
Practical Information: Admission is approximately 60 yuan; it takes about 40 minutes by taxi from downtown. We recommend setting aside half a day for this visit.
4. Zhengdong New District CBD — A Microcosm of Modern Zhengzhou
Why it’s a must-visit: This area showcases Zhengzhou’s modern ambitions. At its heart is Millennium Square (commonly known as the “Big Corn”), which features a stunning nighttime light show. Stroll along the shores of Ruyi Lake to admire modern architecture such as the Greenland Center and the Zhengzhou International Convention and Exhibition Center, and witness the rapid pace of China’s urban development. The surrounding area features upscale restaurants and cafes, making it a great spot for relaxation.
Practical Information: Free admission; take Metro Line 1 to “Exhibition Center” Station for direct access. The best time to visit is in the evening to enjoy the sunset and night views.
5. Zhengzhou Shang City Ruins — Remnants of a 3,600-Year-Old Metropolis
Why You Must Visit: The Zhengzhou Shang City Ruins are the remains of the early Shang Dynasty capital, dating back 3,600 years, and attest to Zhengzhou’s long history as an ancient capital. Remnants of the city walls still stand in the city center, and the Zhengzhou Shang Capital Site Museum (free admission) displays excavated artifacts and a reconstructed model of the city, allowing you to imagine the splendor of this ancient royal capital.
Practical Information: The site park is free to enter; the museum requires a reservation. Located in the city center, it is accessible by foot or subway.
Henan Travel Guide — Must-See Attractions in Dengfeng
Dengfeng City is about a 1.5-hour drive from Zhengzhou and is world-renowned for Mount Song and the Shaolin Temple. It is the birthplace of Chan Buddhism and Shaolin Kung Fu, and the core area of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Center of Heaven and Earth.”
1. Shaolin Temple — The Cradle of Kung Fu
Why It’s a Must-See: The Shaolin Temple is not only a millennium-old monastery but also a sacred site for martial arts enthusiasts worldwide. Must-see experiences include:
Martial Arts Performance: Held daily at the temple’s martial arts hall, this 30-minute spectacular showcases the power and agility of Shaolin Kung Fu.
Main Monastery Compound: Visit the Mountain Gate, the Hall of the Heavenly Kings, and the Great Hall of the Buddha to experience the solemnity of this ancestral temple of Chan Buddhism.
Pagoda Forest: A cluster of burial pagodas for eminent monks from various dynasties, each with unique designs, serving as a treasure trove for studying Buddhist architecture and history.
First Patriarch’s Hermitage and Bodhidharma’s Cave: The site where Bodhidharma, the first patriarch of Chan Buddhism, meditated facing the wall for nine years; accessible by cable car or on foot.
Practical Information: Admission is 80 yuan. As the scenic area is quite large, we recommend taking an electric cart to conserve energy. It’s best to hire an English-speaking guide or rent an audio guide to gain a deeper understanding of the stories.
2. Mount Song — The Majesty of the Central Peak
Why it’s a must-visit: Mount Song is one of China’s Five Great Mountains, comprising Shaoshi Mountain and Taishi Mountain. Adjacent to the Shaolin Temple is Shaoshi Mountain, which can be reached via the Shaolin Cable Car. Explore Sanhuangzhai—with its cliffside walkways, unique peaks, and magnificent geological formations—a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. The view from the summit, where temples blend seamlessly with nature, is breathtaking.
Practical Information: A round-trip cable car ticket costs approximately 100 yuan; admission to Sanhuangzhai is included in the Shaolin Temple combined ticket (please confirm). The full hike through Sanhuangzhai takes 3–4 hours; please pace yourself accordingly.
3. Songyang Academy — A Hall of Ancient Learning
Why it’s a must-visit: Songyang Academy is one of China’s Four Great Academies, where the renowned Song Dynasty Neo-Confucian scholars Cheng Hao and Cheng Yi once taught. The academy features towering ancient cypress trees and rustic architecture, embodying the essence of ancient Chinese educational culture. It also houses precious artifacts such as the “Stele Commemorating the Holy Virtue and Divine Response of the Songyang Observatory of the Great Tang Dynasty.”
Practical Information: Admission is 30 yuan. Located north of downtown Dengfeng, it is accessible by taxi.
Henan Travel Guide — Must-See Attractions in Kaifeng
Kaifeng, the ancient capital of the eight dynasties, is particularly famous as the Northern Song capital, “Dongjing Bianliang.” The bustling scenes depicted in Along the River During the Qingming Festival can still be found here today. It’s just a 30-minute high-speed rail ride from Zhengzhou, making it ideal for a one- or two-day trip.
1. Qingming Shanghe Garden — Step into a Northern Song Dynasty Painting
Why it’s a must-visit: This large-scale theme park is modeled after the “Along the River During the Qingming Festival” painting, recreating the daily life, architecture, and entertainment of the Song Dynasty. You can:
Watch live-action performances, such as “Yue Fei Spears the Young Prince of Liang” and “The Great Battle on the Water,” featuring grand-scale scenes.
Experience ancient crafts, such as papermaking, printing, and weaving.
Sample Song Dynasty snacks and stroll through the ancient-style streets, feeling as if you’ve traveled back a thousand years.
Practical Information: Admission is 120 yuan; allow 4–5 hours for your visit. A large-scale live performance, The Splendor of the Great Song Dynasty: Dongjing Dream, is held in the evenings and requires a separate ticket.
2. Longting Park — Imperial Palace Ruins and Pan and Yang Lakes
Why it’s a must-visit: Longting was part of the imperial garden behind the Song Dynasty palace, built on a high platform overlooking Kaifeng City. The park features Pan Lake and Yang Lake, which, according to legend, were the sites of the residences of the treacherous minister Pan Renmei and the loyal minister Yang Jiye, respectively. Climb up to Longting and imagine the scenes of the emperor feasting and entertaining here in days gone by.
Practical Information: Admission is approximately 35 yuan. The park is located in the city center, adjacent to the Along the River During the Qingming Festival Park.
3. Iron Pagoda Park — The Millennium Glazed Brick Pagoda
Why it’s a must-visit: The Iron Pagoda is actually a pagoda made of iron-colored glazed bricks. Built during the Northern Song Dynasty (1049), it stands 55.88 meters tall and has withstood earthquakes and floods to remain standing. The tower is adorned with exquisite glazed ceramic reliefs, and climbing it offers a panoramic view of Kaifeng (note: access may currently be restricted; check the park’s regulations). The park also features attractions such as the Jieyin Hall and Iron Pagoda Lake.
Practical Information: Admission is 30 yuan; ideal for photography and strolls.
4. Kaifeng Prefecture — Bao Zheng’s Magistrate’s Office
Why it’s a must-visit: Kaifeng Prefecture served as the administrative and judicial center of the Northern Song Dynasty’s capital, and Bao Zheng once served as its prefect. Visitors can watch the opening-of-the-courthouse ceremony and performances of Judge Bao presiding over cases to learn about the Song Dynasty’s bureaucratic system and laws. The site features grand, historically reconstructed architecture.
Practical Information: Admission is 60 yuan, and it is located not far from Longting Park.
5. Daxiangguo Temple — The Imperial Temple
Why You Must Visit: Daxiangguo Temple was a royal temple during the Northern Song Dynasty; it is the setting for the story of Lu Zhishen uprooting the weeping willow in Water Margin. The temple houses precious artifacts such as a wooden carving of the Thousand-Handed and Thousand-Eyed Guanyin, and it is a bustling place of worship.
Practical Information: Admission is 40 yuan. Located near the Drum Tower Night Market, it’s a great spot to visit alongside the market.
6. Drum Tower Night Market — Kaifeng’s Culinary Delights
Why You Must Visit: Kaifeng’s night markets have a long history, and the Drum Tower Night Market is the most famous of them all. As night falls, hundreds of stalls gather here. Sample authentic local snacks like soup dumplings, stir-fried cold jelly, almond milk, and barrel-roasted chicken to experience the local nightlife.
Practical Information: The market opens every evening and gets very crowded. We recommend paying with cash or mobile payment. Those with sensitive stomachs should be careful to choose hygienic stalls.
The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Henan (Zhengzhou, Dengfeng, Kaifeng)
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–May): Temperatures are pleasant, flowers are in full bloom, and attractions like the Qingming Shanghe Garden are brimming with springtime charm.
Fall (September–October): The skies are clear and the air crisp; Mount Song is ablaze with autumn foliage, making it an ideal season for outdoor hiking.
Avoid: National Day Golden Week (October 1–7) and the Spring Festival, as crowds are heavy and accommodations are expensive.
Transportation Guide
Intercity High-Speed Rail: The journey from Zhengzhou East Station to Kaifeng North Station takes only 20–30 minutes, and from Zhengzhou East Station to Zhengzhou West Station (toward Dengfeng) takes about 15 minutes. Zhengzhou Station also offers regular trains to Kaifeng.
Long-distance Bus: Direct buses to the Shaolin Temple depart from Zhengzhou Bus Terminal (approx. 2 hours, 25 yuan).
Private Car/Day Tours: For Dengfeng and Kaifeng, consider joining a local English-speaking day tour or booking a private car via Didi for greater flexibility and comfort.
Accommodation Recommendations
Zhengzhou: We recommend Erqi Square or Zhengdong New District—the former is lively and convenient, while the latter is modern and quiet.
Dengfeng: Stay at the Shaolin Temple International Hotel or the Zhongzhou Huading Hotel in the city center for easy access to the temple the next day.
Kaifeng: We suggest staying near the Gulou commercial district or Longting Park for convenient access to the night market.
Food Recommendations
Zhengzhou: Hui Mian (stir-fried noodles), Hula Tang (spicy soup), Geji Steamed Pancakes
Dengfeng: Shaolin Vegetarian Pancakes, Shredded Mustard Greens
Kaifeng: Soup Dumplings, Barrel Chicken, Stir-Fried Cold Bean Jelly, Almond Tea, Peanut Cake
Suggested Itineraries for Traveling in Henan
3-Day Highlights Tour:
Day 1: Zhengzhou (Henan Museum + Erqi Pagoda + Yellow River Scenic Area)
Day 2: Dengfeng (Shaolin Temple + Mount Song)
Day 3: Kaifeng Day Trip (Along the River During the Qingming Festival Park + Longting Pavilion + Iron Pagoda + Drum Tower Night Market)
5-Day In-Depth Tour:
Includes Zhengzhou Shangdu Ruins, Kaifeng Prefectural Office, and Daxiangguo Temple, plus a hike at Songyang Academy or Sanhuangzhai in Dengfeng.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Henan
Language: Major attractions have English signage, but restaurants and street vendors primarily use Chinese. Download the Google Translate app and learn “hello,” “thank you,” and “how much.”
Payment: Alipay and WeChat Pay are ubiquitous; we recommend linking an international credit card in advance. Carry a small amount of cash just in case.
Internet: Purchase a short-term SIM card from China Mobile or China Unicom, or activate international roaming. Wi-Fi is available at airports and hotels.
Power: China uses 220V voltage. Outlets are either two-pin flat plugs (Type A) or three-pin angled plugs (Type I). It is recommended to bring a power adapter.
Safety: Henan has good public safety, but you should still keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
The three cities of Zhengzhou, Dengfeng, and Kaifeng shine like brilliant pearls, weaving together the most fascinating chapters of Henan’s history and culture. Whether you’re a history buff, a kung fu enthusiast, a foodie, or a traveler seeking an authentic Chinese urban experience, this region will meet your expectations. Bring your curiosity, step onto this ancient yet vibrant land, and embark on your journey of discovery in Henan!
