Zhengzhou City, abbreviated as "Zheng", is the capital of Henan Province. It is located in the Central Plains, the core birthplace of Chinese civilization, holding the historical status of "Center of Heaven and Earth", and is the hometown of Huangdi, the ancestor of the Chinese nation. As a Shang Dynasty capital with a 3600-year history of city building, Zhengzhou not only carries a rich history but also, with its unique transportation advantages in modern times, has become an important hub city in China.
\nZhengzhou is situated in the southern part of the vast North China Plain, bordered to the north by the Yellow River, the mother river of the Chinese nation. Its geographical location is known not for its scenic beauty, but for its strategic importance. As the geographical center of China, it has historically been a fiercely contested area and a gathering place for merchants, and now it has become the "heart" connecting China's east, west, north, and south. Zhengzhou has a temperate monsoon climate with distinct four seasons.
\nZhengzhou's charm is more reflected in its profound historical and cultural heritage in the surrounding areas. The Shaolin Temple on Mount Song in Dengfeng City, under its jurisdiction, is a world-renowned ancestral temple of Chan Buddhism and the birthplace of Chinese Kung Fu, attracting martial arts enthusiasts from around the globe for pilgrimage. The Henan Museum in the city houses a large collection of precious cultural relics from the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, serving as a hall for understanding early Chinese civilization. And the Erqi Memorial Tower in the city center stands as a witness to the city's modern and contemporary revolutionary history.
\n"When the Central Plains are ripe, the whole country is fed." The culture of this land has profoundly influenced all of China. It is the origin of core Chinese cultural elements such as Chinese characters and family names. Globally, the most recognizable cultural symbol is undoubtedly Shaolin Kung Fu. It integrates philosophical contemplation with martial arts skills, having become a unique cultural phenomenon that showcases another facet of Central Plains culture.
\nIn contemporary times, Zhengzhou is known as the "city brought by trains" due to its central position in the railway network. It is one of China's most important comprehensive transportation hubs for railways, highways, and aviation. Its strong logistics and trade capabilities have made it a national central city. This ancient capital, with its new identity as the "Transportation Heart of China," connects all directions of the country, continuing the legendary hub status of the Central Plains.
What is there to do in Zhengzhou China?
The best time to visit Zhengzhou is from March to May in spring and from September to November in autumn.
In spring, Zhengzhou's weather warms up and nature revives. It's ideal for outings to the Yellow River Scenic Area or participating in the Grand Ceremony of Ancestor Worship at Huangdi's Hometown in Xinzheng.
In autumn, with clear skies and pleasant weather, it is the golden season for climbing Mount Song and visiting Shaolin Temple, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the magnificent autumn scenery of the Central Plains.
These two seasons avoid the summer heat and winter dryness, providing visitors with the most comfortable travel experience.
The discovery of the Zhengzhou Shang City Ruins proved that Zhengzhou was the capital of the early-to-mid Shang Dynasty, moving Zhengzhou's urban history back to 3600 years ago.
During the Spring and Autumn Period, the State of Zheng established its capital here, giving Zhengzhou its name and playing an important role in history.
The Beijing-Hankou Railway Workers' Strike erupted in Zhengzhou, marking the peak of the first workers' movement led by the Communist Party of China. The Erqi Memorial Tower became an iconic landmark of the city.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Zhengzhou
Located in Dengfeng City, Zhengzhou, it includes 11 historical buildings at 8 sites, such as Shaolin Temple, Zhongyue Temple, and Songyang Academy. It is a concentrated embodiment of ancient Chinese cosmology and ritual culture.
Explore Zhengzhou's rich intangible cultural heritage and learn about traditional crafts and cultural essence
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Originating from Shaolin Temple on Mount Song, it is the largest martial arts system in China, characterized by the integration of Zen and martial arts, and is acclaimed as a representative of Chinese martial arts.
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One of China's five major traditional opera genres, originating in Henan, known for its high-pitched and unrestrained singing, deeply loved by the people of the Central Plains region.
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Held annually on the third day of the third lunar month in Xinzheng City, Zhengzhou, it is a grand event for global Chinese people to seek their roots and pay homage to their ancestors, aiming to promote the cultural concept of the Chinese nation sharing the same origin.
Transportation you must know when visiting Zhengzhou
Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) is an important trunk airport and air cargo hub in China, with direct access to the city center via the Chengjiao Line (Line 2 South Extension) metro.
Airport shuttle bus routes cover major areas of Zhengzhou, with fares around 20 Yuan.
Zhengzhou is known as the "heart of China's railways," boasting Asia's largest freight marshaling yard and the nation's first "cross-shaped" high-speed rail network hub.
Major passenger stations include Zhengzhou East Station (high-speed rail station), Zhengzhou Station, Zhengzhou South Station, and Zhengzhou West Station.
Zhengzhou Metro currently operates 8 lines, covering the main urban area.
Fares are distance-based, with a starting price of 2 Yuan.
Passengers can use the "Zhengzhou Metro" APP, Alipay, WeChat, or a transportation card to ride.
Zhengzhou City has over 500 bus routes, including an efficient Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
Most bus fares within the urban area are 1 Yuan, supporting QR code payment.
Zhengzhou taxi starting fare is 10 Yuan (within 3 kilometers), followed by 2 Yuan per kilometer.
A night service fee is charged during nighttime (22:00-5:00 the next day).
It's also convenient to hail a ride through ride-hailing platforms.
Shared bike services are very popular in Zhengzhou city, including Meituan Bike, Hello Bike, and others.
Average cost is about 1.5 Yuan/30 minutes, making it a convenient option for short-distance travel.
What to eat in Zhengzhou, you need to know
Braised Noodles
Representative of Henan cuisine, with fresh and flavorful soup, chewy noodles, rich nutrition, it is one of Zhengzhou people's staple foods.
Spicy Pepper Soup
A characteristic Henan breakfast, with a spicy, flavorful, and unique taste, it is one of the locals' favorite breakfasts.
Geji Stewed Pancake
A century-old famous dish in Zhengzhou, known for its fragrant pancake, tender meat, rich sauce, and unique taste.
Fried Dough Balls
A traditional Henan breakfast pastry, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, savory and delicious, often served with Hu Latang.