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Explore the scenic landscape around Huayuankou, a historic area in Zhengzhou. It’s ideal for nature walks, photography, and enjoying the tranquil surroundings. You can also visit nearby archaeological sites to get a deeper understanding of the region’s history and culture.
Huayuankou is located on the south bank of the Yellow River, 17 kilometers north of Huiji District, Zhengzhou City, Henan Province. According to folklore, this place wasn't originally called Huayuankou. During the Ming Dynasty, a celestial official named Xu built a garden here, covering over 540 mu (approximately 1,000 hectares), planted with seasonal flowers and trees that bloomed year-round, attracting visitors from near and far. Later, the Yellow River shifted its course, flooding the beautiful garden. From then on, this place became a ferry crossing on the south bank of the Yellow River, and the locals called it Huayuankou.
On June 9, 1938, during the Sino-Japanese War, Chiang Kai-shek blew up the Yellow River dike at Huayuankou to stop the Japanese army. This caused the Yellow River to break its dike and change its course, drowning nearly 1 million people. This is how Huayuankou became famous.
Temperate monsoon climate; Huayuankou Scenic Area is a water scenery tourist area built with Huayuankou Incident as the axis, the river scenery as the background, and the Yellow River embankment as the support. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Famous attractions such as Jiangjun Dam, Zhengzhou Yellow River Highway Bridge, Gangli Reservoir, Bakouchu Ruins, and Chronicle Square;
It is recommended to play for 3-4 hours
Free and open
Open all day
Huayuankou is an important historical site known for its archaeological significance. It has been a location for ancient settlements and is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly in relation to early Chinese civilization.
Huayuankou is located in Zhengzhou, Henan. It can be accessed via taxi from the city center, or by public buses that stop near the site. Walking is an option if you are staying in nearby accommodations.
It is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during early mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
The entrance fee is approximately 20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through online booking platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it’s recommended during peak tourist seasons or holidays to ensure you don’t miss out on entry.
It typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore Huayuankou fully, depending on how much time you wish to spend at each site and your interest in the historical aspects.
The must-see highlights include the ancient ruins and the surrounding landscapes that showcase the area’s archaeological importance. The preserved artifacts and information panels provide insight into the historical significance of the site.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer basic information in English upon request. Audio guides are generally in Mandarin but can be arranged in other languages at times.
The best viewpoints are along the elevated areas around the ruins, which provide a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Photography is excellent in the early morning or evening light.
Start at the main entrance, explore the historical remains, and then take a walk around the perimeter for a scenic view. If you're interested in archaeology, focus on the key excavation sites.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Huayuankou. The site is primarily focused on daytime visits to its archaeological and historical landmarks.
It can get crowded on weekends and holidays. For a quieter visit, weekdays, especially in the morning, are the best time to go.
Basic facilities like toilets, rest areas, and a small souvenir shop are available. There are no large food courts, but water and light snacks are sold at kiosks.
The site is partially accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, but some paths may be uneven or steep. Assistance may be needed for certain areas, especially for those with mobility impairments.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. Credit cards may not be widely accepted, so mobile payment options are preferable.
There are a few local eateries near the site offering traditional Henan cuisine. For a wider selection, it is recommended to head towards downtown Zhengzhou, where you can find more dining options.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, but vegan and halal choices may be limited. It’s best to check menus or ask restaurant staff for recommendations.
There are budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses near the site, as well as mid-range hotels in the nearby downtown area for a more comfortable stay.
Nearby attractions include the Shaolin Temple and the Longmen Grottoes. Both sites are significant historical landmarks and can easily be included in a day trip from Huayuankou.
A small souvenir shop sells local handicrafts, books, and cultural items. Typical souvenirs include replicas of ancient artifacts, traditional Chinese calligraphy supplies, and local artwork.
After visiting, taxis are the most convenient option to continue your trip, especially if you're heading to other major attractions like the Shaolin Temple or Longmen Grottoes.
