Central Henan

Centered on Zhengzhou and covering Xuchang, Pingdingshan and Luohe, it brings together Shaolin kung fu, Songshan's ancient architecture, the Jun-ware town of Shenhou and Yaoshan's scenery.

This region corresponds to "Central Henan" among Henan's five regions and covers four cities: Zhengzhou, Xuchang, Pingdingshan and Luohe. Zhengzhou is the provincial capital and a major national rail hub, and the Henan Museum, with its rich collection, is the first stop for understanding Central Plains history. In Dengfeng, under Zhengzhou, are Shaolin Temple and Mount Song; the "Historic Monuments of Dengfeng in the Centre of Heaven and Earth" are a World Heritage site, including Shaolin's Pagoda Forest, Zhongyue Temple, Songyang Academy and the Observatory, and the martial arts show at Shaolin Temple is a classic experience. In recent years "Only Henan · Drama Fantasy City" in Zhongmu, Zhengzhou, has also become a popular spot. Xuchang was the capital of Cao Wei in the Three Kingdoms period, with the Cao Wei ancient city and Chunqiu Tower, and Shenhou Ancient Town in Yuzhou is a key production center of Jun ware, where you can visit kilns and the old street. In Lushan County, Pingdingshan, Yaoshan is known for granite peak forests and waterfalls, with abundant hot springs nearby that pair well with a mountain trip. Luohe is known for its food industry, and the Xu Shen Culture Park is a destination for fans of writing and characters. The classic route: one day in Zhengzhou's urban area, 1–2 days at Shaolin Temple and Mount Song, then south to Xuchang, Shenhou and Yaoshan, for 4–5 days overall. Transport is convenient: Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport has dense flight connections, Zhengzhou East Station is the core of the "#"-shaped high-speed network, the Beijing–Guangzhou high-speed line runs through Zhengzhou, Xuchang and Luohe, and Pingdingshan also has a high-speed station. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit; summer is hot and winter may bring smog. Wear non-slip shoes for hiking, and allow plenty of time for the large Shaolin Temple area.

Destinations

Itineraries