Name: Zhengzhou

Chinese name: 郑州

Province: Henan

Status: Prefectural city – Capital

Population: 4,784,000 inhabitants

Area: 1,010.3 km²

Zhengzhou, capital of Henan province, lies on the south bank of the Yellow River. It is regarded as one of the eight great ancient capitals of Chine.

As a prefectural city, it serves as the political, economic, technological, and educational hub of the province. It is also a major transportation hub for central Chine.

History

Zhengzhou is a historic and cultural city in Chine. The ancient city was the capital of the Shang dynasty (1558 BC–1046 BC) 3,500 years ago, when porcelain and bronze flourished.

A ceramic vessel unearthed at Zhengzhou is believed to be the oldest porcelain in Chine.

The Zhengzhou region remained relatively unimportant until the Chinese government decided to develop it in 1949.

Today

Zhengzhou is the first destination when taking a trip to Henan. Its historic and cultural heritage gives it remarkable tourist appeal.

Situated between the upper and middle reaches of the Yellow River, this ancient city is one of the cradles of Chinese culture. It is worthwhile to stop here for a day before continuing to Song Mountain and Dengfeng, where the famous Shaolin Temple is located.

Before diving into the heart of Henan, a visit to the provincial museum (one of the finest in Chine) is a promising start. You can learn more about Henan and its rich history.

Relics from ancient dynasties are scattered throughout the city and will give you a glimpse of the region's cultural treasures. The Confucius Temple, built during the Eastern Han dynasty, is one of the oldest Confucius temples in Chine.

The Erqi Tower, or Erqi Memorial Tower, stands at the city center as a symbol. It can be visited inside, where ancient relics are displayed.

Climate

Zhengzhou enjoys a pleasant climate year-round.

July is the hottest month, recording an average temperature of 27°C, while January is the coldest month with an average temperature of −0.2°C.

Autumn and spring are ideal seasons to visit Zhengzhou. The weather is pleasant and bathes the city in beautiful colors.

Zhengzhou is a provincial capital with excellent transportation links. As a major transportation hub in central Chine, it is easily accessible by plane, train, and bus.

Air

Zhengzhou Airport, located about 30 kilometers from the city center, is the region's most important airport. Daily flights operate from Beijing, Shanghai, Guilin, and Hong Kong.

Flights also operate between Zhengzhou and Wuhan, Haikou, Shenzhen, and Xi'an.

Train

Situated at the intersection of the Beijing–Guangzhou and Lianyungang–Lanzhou rail lines, Zhengzhou is one of Chine's most important railway hubs and is considered the heart of Chine's railway system.

There are five railway stations in the city: Zhengzhou Station, East Station, West Station, and South Station.

Long-Distance Bus

Zhengzhou is one of seven major road transportation centers in Chine. It therefore has convenient facilities and infrastructure for long-distance buses.

The city benefits from 10 long-distance bus stations served by buses from cities within the province and neighboring regions such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an.

Zhengzhou is very well equipped in terms of public transportation.

17 metro lines are under construction. Currently, only 1 line is operational.

Inter-city buses allow you to travel easily through the city and reach stations or points of interest.

Like any major city worth its salt, taxis offer affordable fares.

What to do in Zhengzhou?

• Learn about the city and region's history at the Henan Provincial Museum.
• Immerse yourself in Shang culture and climb the ancient rammed earth wall of the city.
• Visit the Erqi Memorial Tower, one of the city's symbols.
• Venture outside the city to discover the famous Shaolin Temple.