Ultimate Visitor’s Guide to Zhengzhou, China

Summary

Location
History
Attractions
Getting There
Getting Around
Essentials
Where to Stay

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Zhengzhou (郑州) is the provincial capital of Henan (河南) Province, located in central China. The Yellow River flows through Henan, a region known for being home to four of China’s ancient eight capitals and the birthplace of Chinese civilization. As Zhengzhou undergoes a revitalization due to recent wealth influx, the city is seeing new buildings, roads, and signs, creating a modern atmosphere. While it may not be the main attraction, Zhengzhou serves as an ideal launch point for exploring China’s ancient treasures, such as the Shaolin Temple, the birthplace of Kung Fu, and the Longmen Grottoes, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Location

Zhengzhou is positioned approximately 470 miles (760km) south of Beijing and 300 miles (480km) east of Xi’an. The Yellow River, a major waterway and cradle of Chinese civilization, flows northward. To the west, you’ll find Mount Song (Song Shan), while the Huang Hai plains surround the city to the south and east. This city is a significant transportation hub, with two major railways intersecting here, facilitating travel to and from Zhengzhou with ease.

History

Zhengzhou holds great historical significance as the first capital of the Shang Dynasty (1600-1027BC), the second dynasty in recorded Chinese history. Remnants of ancient packed-earth city walls can still be seen, showcasing the city’s rich heritage. Visitors can delve deeper into Zhengzhou and the history of Henan province by visiting the Henan Provincial Museum (Henan Bowuguan) located in the city.

Attractions

Shang Dynasty Ruins
Henan Provincial Museum
Yellow River
Shaolin Temple
Longmen (Dragon Gate) Grottoes

Getting There

Air: Zhengzhou’s airport lies about 21 miles (35km) outside the city center. For those with hotel reservations, it’s advisable to contact the hotel regarding airport transfers. Taxis are readily available, but ensure you have your hotel name and address, preferably in Chinese, to assist the driver.
Bus: The long-distance bus station is situated near the railway station in the southwest part of the city, making it easy to journey to other Henan cities or attractions just outside Zhengzhou.
Rail: The railway station is conveniently located opposite the long-distance bus station in the southwest. Zhengzhou serves as a major rail transit hub, allowing for quick train trips to nearby historical cities such as Luoyang (2hrs) and Kaifeng (1hr), as well as longer journeys to major destinations like Beijing (12hrs) and Shanghai (14hrs).

Getting Around

Bus: Using the bus is a budget-friendly option to explore Zhengzhou, particularly since most tourist attractions are not within walking distance of most hotels. It’s beneficial to ask your hotel about the best routes.
Taxi: Opting for taxis is often preferable for visitors traveling in new cities, as they are generally affordable and provide greater comfort compared to buses. Keep a map or hotel taxi card on hand to help communicate your destination to the driver.

Essentials

Population: 7 million
Telephone Code: 037 (omit the first 0 when dialing from abroad)
Weather: Zhengzhou enjoys a relatively mild climate compared to other regions in China. July is the hottest month with average temperatures around 80F (27C), while January is the coldest at approximately 32F (0C). Spring and fall are popular travel seasons, but visiting off-peak can offer a rewarding experience away from the crowds.
Recommended time for visit: 2 days.
Best time of year to visit: Generally, spring and autumn are considered ideal due to moderate climates; however, a visit during mid-December can also be delightful, with minimal tourist traffic and pleasant weather conditions.

Where to Stay

Choosing accommodation in Zhengzhou is made easy with several hotels emerging around the city. A popular option includes the Intercontinental Hotel Group’s tier of three properties, conveniently located within the same compound, allowing for easy access to facilities and services.