Explore Zhengzhou

Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan Province, is one of China’s oldest continuously inhabited cities and a gateway to the country’s ancient soul. Strategically located along the Yellow River, this city has witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties and still plays a pivotal role in China’s economic and transport networks today. Though often overlooked by international tourists, Zhengzhou rewards visitors with deep history, cultural treasures, and easy access to nearby heritage sites.

Start your journey at the Henan Museum, one of China’s top provincial museums, where jade carvings, ancient pottery, and early musical instruments reveal the sophistication of Chinese civilization as far back as the Shang Dynasty. A short trip outside the city leads you to the awe-inspiring Shaolin Temple, the birthplace of Chan (Zen) Buddhism and Chinese martial arts, nestled on Mount Songshan. Witness monks perform gravity-defying kung fu, explore serene temple grounds, or hike the misty trails nearby.

Within the city, the Erqi Memorial Tower honors Zhengzhou’s revolutionary past and stands in the heart of its commercial center. Modern shopping malls, teahouses, and spicy noodle shops coexist with quiet parks and bustling food markets offering dishes like hui mian (braised noodles) and roujiamo (Chinese “hamburger”).

Zhengzhou’s position as a major railway hub makes it an ideal base for exploring central China. The city is evolving rapidly, with high-speed trains, skyscrapers, and modern infrastructure, but its roots remain firmly planted in tradition. For travelers seeking to trace the foundations of Chinese culture and spirituality, Zhengzhou is not just a transit point—it’s a destination in its own right.