Overview
Xuchang (许昌) served as the capital during the Han-Wei period, earning it the nickname "Han-Wei Ancient Capital" (汉魏故都). The city preserves Three Kingdoms heritage through sites like Baling Bridge, where General Guan Yu crossed with his horse Red Hare, and the Cao Wei Ancient City with its nightly light shows.
Architecture · Budget Travel · Day Trips · History · Museums
Before you go
Food
Henan specialties include Huì Miàn (wheat noodles), Hú Là Tāng (spicy soup), and Dàokǒu Shāojī (braised chicken). Avoid local barbecue—head to Zhengzhou for better options. Local soda Kǒu lè (plum juice) is the local cola alternative.
History
Xuchang was the capital of the Cao Wei state during the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 CE). Sites include Baling Bridge (where Guan Yu crossed with Red Hare), Spring and Autumn Pavilion (where Guan Yu studied), and the reconstructed Cao Wei Ancient City.
Transport
Local buses cost ¥1 throughout Xuchang. Three railway stations serve different routes: regular trains at Xuchang Railway Station, high-speed at East Station (Guangzhou-Beijing line), and newest high-speed at North Station (Zhengzhou-Fuyang line).
Weather
Four distinct seasons: cold winters (January averages -3°C), hot humid summers (July reaches 32°C with 167mm rain), comfortable spring and autumn. Best visiting seasons are spring and autumn.
