East Henan Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and picturesque province of East Henan! Discover natural attractions, must-visit landmarks, outdoor activities, food and drink, accommodations, and more. Plan your trip to East Henan with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to East Henan

Located in the northern part of China and known as the cradle of Chinese civilization, East Henan is a historical and cultural treasure trove that attracts millions of tourists every year. This region boasts an impressive collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, stunning natural scenery, and authentic Chinese culture. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the best that East Henan has to offer, from must-visit landmarks and fun-filled outdoor adventures to delicious local cuisine and charming accommodations.

List of Places to Visit in East Henan

  • Shaolin Temple
  • Longmen Grottoes
  • Mount Songshan
  • White Horse Temple
  • Guoliang Village
  • Yuntai Mountain Geological Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

East Henan is steeped in rich history and culture. Visitors can explore the renowned landmarks such as the Shaolin Temple, which is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China. It is revered not only for its religious and spiritual essence but also for its reputation as the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu. The Longmen Grottoes, located in Luoyang, house a wide range of Buddhist cave art and architecture that dates back to the Northern Wei Dynasty.

Other must-visit landmarks in East Henan include White Horse Temple in Luoyang, which is believed to be China’s first Buddhist temple, and Guoliang Village in Xinxiang, which boasts awe-inspiring scenic views and ancient cave dwellings.

Natural Attractions of East Henan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

East Henan is known for its picturesque natural landscape that includes several scenic mountain ranges and parks, like Mount Songshan and Yuntai Mountain Geological Park. Visitors can embark on several fun-filled outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing, while enjoying mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Henan

Hiking and biking enthusiasts can explore the vast terrain of East Henan by following the scenic routes that best match their fitness levels and preferences. Some of the notable hiking and biking trails include the Songshan Circular Road, the Longmen Mountain Hiking Trail, and the Yuntai Mountain Hiking Trail.

Best Things to Do in East Henan: Activities and Tours

Aside from natural attractions, East Henan also offers several fun-filled activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Some of the most famous things to do in East Henan include visiting the Dengfeng Observatory, exploring the Luoyang Museum, and going on a Shaolin Kung Fu adventure tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for East Henan

Day 1 - Visit the Shaolin Temple and learn about the famed Shaolin Kung Fu style. Day 2 - Explore the Longmen Grottoes and explore the fascinating world of Buddhist cave art. Day 3 - Hike or bike around Mount Songshan and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Day 4 - Visit the Dengfeng Observatory and learn about ancient Chinese astronomy. Day 5 - Explore the Luoyang Museum and discover ancient Chinese history and culture. Day 6 - Visit the White Horse Temple and learn about the history of Buddhism in China. Day 7 - Relax and unwind amidst the natural wonders of the Yuntai Mountain Geological Park.

Food and Drink Scene of East Henan

East Henan has a rich culinary history, and visitors can feast on mouth-watering specialties like Zhengzhou pancakes, Luoyang Water Banquet, and Xinyang Maojian tea.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Guo Kui
  • Spiced Apricot Soup
  • Scallion Pancake
  • Luoyang Shui Xi Soup

Local Beverages

  • Fen Jiu
  • Kung Fu tea
  • Xinyang Maojian tea

Where to Stay in East Henan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

East Henan offers several accommodation options for visitors, including luxury hotels, charming guesthouses, and affordable hostels. Some of the best places to stay include:

  • Hilton Zhengzhou
  • White Horse Guesthouse
  • Yuntai Mountain Guesthouse
  • Luoyang Friendship Guesthouse

What to Buy in East Henan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can take home several popular souvenirs and locally made products from East Henan, such as:

  • Zhengzhou handmade wooden combs
  • Luoyang peony embroidery
  • Nanyang Xuan paper

Local Culture and Customs of East Henan

East Henan is known for its rich cultural heritage that includes unique customs and traditions. Visitors can witness and participate in several cultural festivals like the Zhengzhou Lantern Festival and the Luoyang Peony Festival, and experience Chinese culture firsthand.

Best Time to Visit East Henan

The best time to visit East Henan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and comfortable. The peak tourist season in East Henan is during the Chinese New Year, which falls between late January and early February.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Henan

Do:

  • Learn some basic Mandarin phrases before visiting
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions
  • Try local delicacies, like Zhengzhou pancakes and Fen Jiu

Don’t:

  • Take photos without permission from locals or in temples or shrines
  • Wear revealing clothing in public
  • Leave trash or litter in natural areas or tourist hotspots

Safety and Health

Safety in East Henan

East Henan is a safe region for tourists, and travelers do not need to take any special precautions while exploring the region.

Health in East Henan

Visitors should carry necessary medication and take precautions against air pollution, as well as protect themselves from mosquito bites.

Getting to East Henan: Transportation Options and Logistics

East Henan is well-connected to the rest of China by air, train, and bus. The closest airport to East Henan is Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport, which has direct flights to major Chinese and international cities. Visitors can also take bullet trains from major cities in China, such as Beijing and Shanghai, that run through East Henan.

How to Get Around in East Henan

East Henan has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, taxis, and trains, that makes getting around convenient for tourists. Visitors can also hire bicycles or cars from local vendors for a more personalized travel experience.

Where to Go Next from East Henan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring East Henan, visitors can take a trip to nearby destinations such as Beijing or Shanghai, or visit other provinces like Shaanxi and Shandong, which are also known for their historical landmarks and natural scenery.

Conclusion

East Henan is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty that offers visitors a unique experience of China’s past and present. With this guide, visitors can plan a perfect itinerary for exploring the region’s most famous landmarks while also discovering the local cuisine, culture, and traditions. So pack your bags and embark on a journey of a lifetime to East Henan!



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