Overview
Kaifeng was the capital of several Chinese dynasties and holds over 4,100 years of documented history. The city preserves significant Song Dynasty heritage, including the famous Iron Pagoda built in 1049, the reconstructed Kai-Feng-Fu (the old city government office), and the Millennium City Park based on the celebrated painting Along the River During the Qingming Festival.
Architecture · Day Trips · History · Museums
Before you go
Accommodation
The only international youth hostel is Kaifeng International Youth Hostel near Bao Gong Lake (dorms from ¥40-45). Mid-range hotels on Sihou Street and Zhongshan Road offer rooms from ¥150-700.
Culture
Kaifeng preserves significant Song Dynasty heritage with recreated parks, ancient temples, and a unique Jewish history dating to the Northern Song Dynasty around 1,000 years ago.
Food
Night market at Gulou Square offers diverse street food. Local specialties include soup dumplings (baozi), mutton soup at Muslim restaurants, and donkey meat soup. Taiwan-style milk tea stands line Bookstore Street.
Language
Mandarin Chinese is the primary language. English signage is limited outside major tourist attractions. The youth hostel has English-speaking staff who can assist with translation needs.
Transport
Kaifeng has two rail stations: Kaifeng Station for conventional trains (Shanghai-Xi'an line) and Songcheng Lu Station for high-speed rail to Zhengzhou. The main bus station is across from the train station.
Weather
Kaifeng has four distinct seasons: hot humid summers (up to 32°C, significant rainfall in July) and cold winters (down to -4°C, occasional snow). Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures for sightseeing.
