Henan Kaifeng

1.Qingming Shanghe Garden

Qingming Shanghe Garden,Kaifeng's living postcard that brings Zhang Zeduan's famous Along the River During the Qingming Festival painting to life!

Built in 1992,this park vividly recreates the bustling streets,riverside scenes,and daily life of Northern Song's capital,Bianjing (now Kaifeng),as depicted in the ancient scroll.Wander through 1:1 scale reconstructions of shops,bridges,and boats on the "Grand Canal" watch folk performances like acrobatics and traditional music,or try your hand at old crafts like pottery and calligraphy.Don't miss the dynamic river shows and horse-drawn carriages—they'll make you feel like you've stepped back 1,000 years into a world of merchants,scholars,and storytellers.

Whether you're marveling at the detailed architecture or savoring Song-era snacks at the market,Qingming Shanghe Garden is a playful,vibrant tribute to China's golden age of culture.

2.Kaifeng Prefecture Office

Kaifeng Prefecture Office,where the legend of Judge Bao comes to life and ancient Chinese governance unfolds!

Built as the heart of local administration during the Northern Song Dynasty,this historic complex is most famous as the workplace of Bao Zheng (Judge Bao),a symbol of integrity and justice in Chinese culture.Though the original was lost to history,the modern reconstruction vividly recreates Song-era architecture,with grand halls like the Main Hall and the Qingxin Tower,offering panoramic views of Kaifeng.

Don't miss the live performances reenacting Judge Bao's legendary court cases,or the serene gardens and ponds that echo the balance between duty and tranquility.More than a historic site,it's a window into ancient China's legal system and the enduring legacy of an official who stood for fairness.

3.Dragon Pavilion Park

Dragon Pavilion Park,where imperial history meets natural beauty in the heart of the ancient capital!

Perched on the site of the Northern Song Dynasty's imperial palace,this park centers around the Dragon Pavilion Hall,a magnificent structure rising 13 meters atop a historic stone platform.Built during the Qing Dynasty on foundations that once held royal palaces from multiple dynasties (including the Song and Jin),the hall offers sweeping views of the city and the iconic Pan and Yang Lakes below—two linked lakes said to symbolize the "loyal" and "treacherous" ministers from ancient tales,with their waters contrasting in clarity.

Walk along the grand central axis lined with pavilions,gardens,and ceremonial spaces,and imagine the emperors who once presided over this sacred ground.The park's design blends classical Chinese architecture with lush greenery,coming alive in autumn during the Kaifeng Chrysanthemum Festival,when thousands of blooms transform the grounds into a colorful paradise.

Whether you're marveling at the hall's imposing presence,enjoying the serene lake views,or soaking in the stories of emperors past,Dragon Pavilion Park is a must-visit for anyone wanting to touch Kaifeng's imperial legacy.

4.Great Xiangguo Temple

Great Xiangguo Temple,Kaifeng's iconic Buddhist temple where history,spirituality,and culture blend in perfect harmony!

Built in 555 AD during the Northern Qi Dynasty,this temple rose to fame as a royal monastery in the Northern Song era,when it became a hub of religion,learning,and even imperial ceremonies.Its grand architecture features halls like the Mahavira Hall,with towering Buddha statues,and the unique Octagonal Glazed Hall housing a thousand-hand,thousand-eye Guanyin statue carved from a single camphor wood—a masterpiece of faith and craftsmanship.

Don't miss the lively temple fair vibes (a tradition since ancient times),where you can explore stalls,admire traditional art,and feel the buzz of daily life that's echoed here for centuries.Though rebuilt over time,the Great Xiangguo Temple remains a symbol of Kaifeng's spiritual legacy and its role as a cultural crossroads.

5.Tianbo Yang Mansion

Tianbo Yang Mansion,where the legendary loyalty of the Yang Family comes to life!Nestled in Kaifeng,near Longting Park,this ancient residence honors General Yang Ye (Yang Linggong),a heroic Northern Song warrior famous for defending against the Liao invaders in the stories of The Yang Family Heroes.

Step into a courtyard-style complex echoing Song Dynasty architecture—green tiles,red pillars,and serene gardens.The Main Hall displays life-sized statues of the Yang family,telling tales of their bravery through murals and artifacts.Don't miss the Military Equipment Courtyard,showcasing ancient weapons and armor,or the Loyalty & Filial Piety Hall,where their family motto of "serving the country with utmost devotion" comes alive.

More than a historic site,it's a place to feel the spirit of a legendary clan.Wander through pavilions named after iconic family members like Yang Zongbao and Mu Guiying,and imagine their stories of courage.

6.Temple of Lord Bao

Temple of Lord Bao,Kaifeng's sacred tribute to one of China's most iconic symbols of integrity and justice!

Nestled in the heart of Kaifeng,this temple was built to honor Bao Zheng (Lord Bao),a Northern Song Dynasty official renowned for his unwavering honesty and fearless pursuit of justice during the 11th century.Step into a world where history and legend blend:the temple's architecture follows the elegant style of the Song Dynasty,with green-tiled roofs,red-lacquered pillars,and serene courtyards that set the stage for his timeless legacy.

Our first stop is the Main Hall,where a towering bronze statue of Lord Bao stands，holding a scroll symbolizing his commitment to law.Around him,vivid murals depict famous stories of his impartial rulings—like the Case of the Iron,where he punished even powerful nobles without favoritism.Don't miss the Exhibition Hall,housing ancient documents,historical records,and replicas of the "Three Imperial Blades of Justice",legendary tools he used to enforce the law equally for all,from commoners to royals.

A quiet walk through the Bao Family Cemetery offers a glimpse into his family's humility—Lord Bao and his descendants were buried here,reflecting their virtue of simplicity.The Stele of Inscriptions bears praises from centuries of admirers,while the tranquil Lotus Pond in front of the hall symbolizes his purity,as the lotus represents integrity in Chinese culture.

What makes the Temple of Lord Bao special is its ability to bring history to life.Listen to stories of his legendary wisdom,marvel at the detailed exhibits,or simply absorb the peaceful atmosphere that honors a man who became a symbol of righteousness.Whether you're a history buff or seeking inspiration from his timeless values,this temple is a journey into the heart of China's moral heritage.

7.Songdu Imperial Street

Songdu Imperial Street,Kaifeng's very own "time machine" that takes you straight back to the bustling streets of the Northern Song Dynasty!

Right in the heart of Kaifeng,this 400-meter-long street is designed to look just like the royal avenue of Bianjing,the ancient capital.As we walk on the gray stone tiles,you'll see two-story wooden buildings with curved roofs,red pillars,and green tiles—exactly how shops and houses looked a thousand years ago!The street is lined with over 100 stores selling all kinds of things: traditional handicrafts like paper-cutting and ink paintings,old-fashioned snacks like stewed noodles (a local favorite),and fun souvenirs like tiny clay figurines of Song Dynasty soldiers.

At the entrance,don't miss the huge stone archway with golden characters—it's like a big "welcome sign" from the past!Walk a little further,and you'll spot the Bell Tower,where actors sometimes dress up as Song Dynasty guards and ring the bell to recreate ancient city life.In the evening,red lanterns hang from every roof,making the street glow like a scene from a movie.Kids love trying on colorful Song-style costumes here,and adults enjoy sipping tea in the old teahouses while watching street performances,like acrobatics or traditional music.

What's great about Songdu Imperial Street is that it's not just for looking—it's for experiencing!You can buy a warm sesame cake from a street vendor,pick up a hand-painted fan,or even write your name with an old-fashioned brush and ink.It's a place where history feels close enough to touch.Whether you're here to shop,eat,or just take a slow walk,this street lets you imagine what life was like when Kaifeng was the world's most prosperous city.

8.Iron Pagoda Park

Iron Pagoda Park ,one of the city's oldest and most interesting spots!Don't let the name fool you:the "Iron Pagoda" isn't made of iron at all!It's actually a 900-year-old tower built from colorful glazed tiles that look dark brown,almost like iron from a distance.Let's go in and see why it's been a must-visit for centuries!

First,the star of the park: the Iron Pagoda itself.Standing 55 meters tall with 13 floors,it's one of China's best-preserved ancient towers from the Northern Song Dynasty (built in 1049).Every inch of it is decorated with glazed tiles showing dragons,flowers,and even ancient warriors—like a big puzzle of history!You can climb the narrow stairs inside (yes,it's a bit of a workout,but worth it!) for a view of the whole park and Kaifeng's skyline.

The park isn't just about the tower—there's a lot to enjoy!Around it,you'll find lush gardens with green trees,stone bridges,and a peaceful lake where you can rent a boat and relax.In spring,the flowers bloom everywhere,and in autumn,there's a huge chrysanthemum festival with thousands of colorful flowers.Kids love the miniature model area,showing what ancient Kaifeng looked like,while adults enjoy the quiet paths and the old-style pavilions where locals sometimes practice tai chi or play traditional music.

One cool thing:the tower has survived earthquakes,wars,and even floods for centuries—talk about strong!It's a symbol of Kaifeng's long history.Whether you're here to climb the tower,take photos by the lake,or just wander and enjoy the fresh air,Iron Pagoda Park is a place where history feels alive but also easy to enjoy.

9.Chinese Calligraphy Garden

Chinese Calligraphy Garden,Kaifeng's "Forest of Steles" a sanctuary for ancient Chinese art and culture!

Nestled by the scenic Dragon Pavilion Lake,this garden was built to honor the beauty of Chinese calligraphy and preserve thousands of stone inscriptions.Step into a serene world where over 3,000 steles line winding paths,showcasing masterpieces from dynasties like Tang,Song,and Ming—think works by iconic calligraphers such as Wang Xizhi and Yan Zhenqing,carved into stone with incredible detail.The garden blends classical architecture with natural landscapes:arched bridges cross over lotus ponds,pavilions shelter rare steles,and greenery frames each ink-wrought masterpiece.

Don't miss the Main Stele Corridor,a highlight featuring giant stone tablets that tell stories of China's literary heritage.Whether you're a calligraphy lover or just seeking peace in a historic setting,the garden offers quiet corners to admire the art or watch artisans demonstrate brushwork.It's a living museum where each stroke connects the past to the present.

10.Bianjing Park

Bianjing Park,Kaifeng's vibrant urban oasis where history meets nature and fun!

Named after Kaifeng's ancient title "Bianjing" (capital of the Northern Song Dynasty),this park offers a mix of green spaces,cultural charm,and family-friendly activities.Wander through lush gardens dotted with pavilions,lotus ponds,and winding paths—perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic.Kids will love the amusement area with rides and games,while the small zoo here introduces you to animals like tigers,monkeys,and peacocks.

Don't miss the Song Dynasty-style architecture around the lake—rent a paddle boat to glide across the water and enjoy views of willow trees swaying in the breeze.In spring,the park bursts with colorful flowers,and in autumn,it hosts lively festivals with traditional performances.Whether you're here to relax,let the kids play,or soak in Kaifeng's historic vibe,Bianjing Park is a local favorite that promises the simple joys of nature and culture.

11.Shan-Shaan-Gan Guild Hall

Shan-Shaan-Gan Guild Hall,an architectural gem from the Qing Dynasty,built by merchants from Shanxi,Shaanxi,and Gansu provinces over 200 years ago!

Step into this compact yet stunning complex,where every inch showcases masterful wood,brick,and stone carvings—think dragons curling around pillars,mythical stories etched into walls,and intricate patterns symbolizing prosperity.The highlight is the Main Hall,decorated with golden details and surrounded by courtyards that once hosted business meetings and cultural events for the merchant community.Don't miss the Grand Stage,where ancient operas echoed,connecting trade with tradition.

What makes this guild hall special is how it blends business history with artistic excellence—each carving tells a story of the merchants' values and their role in shaping Kaifeng's past.Whether you're marveling at the craftsmanship or imagining the bustling gatherings of old,it's a quiet corner where history whispers through every intricate design.

12.Yanqing Temple

Yanqing Temple,Kaifeng's hidden gem of ancient spirituality and architectural wonder!

Nestled in the heart of the city,Yanqing Temple was built in 1233 during the Yuan Dynasty to honor Wang Chongyang,the founder of the Quanzhen School of Taoism.Its name,"Yanqing"means "prolonged happiness" reflecting the Taoist pursuit of harmony and longevity.Though smaller than Kaifeng's famous pagodas,this temple is a time capsule of Yuan Dynasty architecture,especially the iconic Jade Emperor Pavilion—China's earliest surviving "beamless hall" crafted entirely from bricks and colored glazed tiles without a single wooden beam!

Step into the courtyard,and your eyes will be drawn to the pavilion's striking blue and green (glazed tiles) shining under the sun.The octagonal structure is covered in intricate brick carvings depicting Taoist myths,celestial animals,and floral patterns,each detail a testament to ancient craftsmanship.Inside,a statue of the Jade Emperor (the highest deity in Taoism) presides,surrounded by murals that tell stories of spiritual cultivation.The pavilion's clever design—using arched brick vaults to support the roof—shows how ancient builders mastered structural art without wood,making it a marvel of its time.

Beyond the pavilion,the temple's quiet gardens and simple halls offer a peaceful contrast to Kaifeng's bustling historic sites.It's a place where you can feel the calm of Taoist philosophy,surrounded by centuries-old trees and the soft murmur of wind chimes.Though less visited than its neighbors,Yanqing Temple is a must-see for anyone curious about China's religious heritage and innovative architecture.

13.Kaifeng Museum

Kaifeng Museum,a gateway to explore the city's thousand-year legacy as China's ancient capital!

Housed in a modern building inspired by Song Dynasty architecture,the museum showcases over 80,000 artifacts,with highlights from the Northern Song era when Kaifeng (then Bianjing) was a global hub of culture and trade.Don't miss the "Capital of Song" exhibition—here,royal porcelain,intricate bronze ware,and vivid paintings bring to life the opulence of the imperial court.One gem is the ivory miniature ivory carving of Along the River During the Qingming Festival,a detailed nod to Zhang Zeduan's famous masterpiece depicting Bianjing's bustling streets.

The museum's design—with soaring roofs and tranquil courtyards—echoes the elegance of ancient capitals,making every visit a journey through time.Whether you're marveling at Song Dynasty blue-and-white porcelain or learning about Kaifeng's role in ancient Chinese science,it's a concise yet captivating story of a city that shaped history.

14.Fanta Pagoda

Fanta Pagoda,Kaifeng's ancient Buddhist gem that's stood tall for over a millennium,carrying the whispers of history in every brick!

Nestled south of the old city,this pagoda was first built in 974 AD during the Northern Song Dynasty,originally named "Xingci Pagoda" but later nicknamed "Fanta" after the nearby Fan Terrace where scholars once gathered.Rising 36 meters,its hexagonal shape and tiered design are unique—though it originally had 9 stories,wars and time left only the bottom 3 by the Yuan Dynasty.In the Qing Dynasty,a 4-story brick top was added,creating its distinctive "short and stout" appearance you see today,blending Song and later architectural styles.

The real magic lies in its thousands of brick carvings: every surface is dotted with tiny Buddha statues,Bodhisattvas,and floral patterns,each brick a masterpiece from the Song era.Look closely at the eaves—they're supported by intricate dougong brackets,a hallmark of ancient Chinese engineering,and the interior hides stone inscriptions detailing Buddhist scriptures.At the top,a shiny bronze finial crowns the pagoda,glinting in the sun like a guardian of centuries past.

What makes Fanta Pagoda special?It's a living history book—damaged yet resilient,showing how Kaifeng's architecture evolved through dynasties.Surrounded by lush gardens and echoes of the"Fan Terrace Spring Scenery"once one of the"Eight Views of Bianjing"it offers quiet moments to admire its quirky,uneven beauty.Whether you're marveling at the precision of its brickwork or imagining the monks who once chanted here,this pagoda is a rare survivor,connecting us to a time when faith and art merged into stone.

15.City Wall Relic Park

City Wall Relic Park,where history stands tall and proud,inviting you to walk in the footsteps of ancient emperors and soldiers!

Stretching over 14 kilometers,this imposing wall is one of China's best-preserved ancient city walls,tracing the outline of Kaifeng's historic heart.Built over 2,300 years ago (with its most famous iteration as the capital wall of the Northern Song Dynasty),it's a living textbook of Chinese fortification—think massive brick-and-earth structures,watchtowers,and gates that once guarded the bustling metropolis of Bianjing.Today,restored sections like the Daliang Gate and Wumen Gate let you step back in time,complete with original Ming and Qing Dynasty architecture and a moat that still glimmers under the sun.

What makes this park special?You can walk or bike along the wall's top,feeling the breeze as you gaze at the old city's rooftops on one side and modern Kaifeng's skyline on the other.Notice the ancient battlements and "horse tracks" (ramps where soldiers once rode up)—every stone tells stories of wars,peace,and the city's resilience.Don't miss the nighttime light show,when the wall glows with golden lanterns,turning history into a magical spectacle.

Whether you're a history buff marveling at its military design or a traveler seeking breathtaking views,the Kaifeng City Wall is more than a relic—it's a connection to an era when this city was the heartbeat of a great empire.