Dating back to the earliest chapter of Chinese history, the city of Zhengzhou boasts a unique blend of old and new. Vibrant temples and the earthen city walls sit alongside brazenly modern buildings, all surrounded by the scenic Yellow River and Song Mountain.

Things to do

Experience the lively energy at Erqi Square, the city’s focal point lined with market stalls selling clothing, crafts and street food. Admire the Erqi Monument Tower, a striking 10-storey pagoda that’s illuminated at night.

Take a day trip to Mount Song, one of China’s Five Sacred Mountains and the birthplace of Zen Buddhism. The mountain is surrounded by serene valleys, waterfalls and chiselled peaks, including the magnificent Mount Taishi and Mount Shaoshi.

Visit the ancient Shaolin Temple. Built-in 495 AD, the temple gave rise to Shaolin Kungfu, China’s oldest and most famous martial art. See the Shaolin Monks perform in the temple before wandering through the Pagoda Forest, filled with cypress trees. Don’t miss the 6th-century Songyue Pagoda, the oldest stone pagoda in the country.

Discover the intriguing history of one of China’s most ancient civilisations at the Henan Provincial Museum. The pyramid-shaped museum features an impressive collection of over 100,000 cultural relics, including ancient treasures, bronze vessels and precious porcelain. Don’t miss a chance to marvel at the old city walls in the nearby Shang Dynasty Ruins.

Getting around

Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport is located 25 kilometres from the city centre and is accessible via the metro or airport shuttle. Express trains arrive in Zhengzhou from Beijing in 3.5-hours, Guangzhou in six hours and Xi’an in two hours. Local buses and the subway provide transport throughout Zhengzhou.