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Visit the Yellow Emperor Palace to explore its historical significance, enjoy the serene surroundings, and learn about the Yellow Emperor, one of China's most revered ancient figures. Take time to walk through the gardens, visit the temples, and take part in the cultural exhibitions that celebrate Chinese history and mythology.
The Yellow Emperor's Palace, also known as the Yunyan Palace, is located 35 kilometers southwest of Zhengzhou, Henan Province, in Liuzhai Township, southeast of Xinmi. It was once the place where Emperor Huangdi built his palace, trained his troops, and developed the Eight Diagrams.
According to legend, after Huangdi's initial defeat in the battle against Chiyou, he retreated to this place to cultivate his mind and spirit. He appointed Fenghou and Limu as prime ministers, trained him in military tactics, and reorganized his army. Remains of ancient buildings such as Yangma Village, Cangwu Village, Baijiangtai, palaces, Xuanyuan Gate, and Jiangwu Gate still exist.
The Yellow Emperor Palace is known as the "Holy Land of the Ancestor of Chinese Civilization," "The First Palace Under Heaven," and the site of the development of the Eight Formations. The area boasts stunning scenery and breathtaking landscapes. Legends and captivating ballads have been circulating since ancient times: "From Nanjing to Beijing, nothing compares to the Yunyan Palace. Three cypresses, two rocks, and one temple, the Queen Mother sits in the air. Cypresses grow between the cracks of the rocks, and the old dragon cries incessantly. The Yellow Emperor and Feng Hou developed the Eight Formations, and the Yunyan Palace gathered heroes."
The temperate monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
Before the Yellow Emperor's Palace lies a mirror-like waterscape. Clouds cast their shadows in the stream, green willows reflect the water, birds fly and sing, and reflections drift and sink in the shimmering blue water, resembling a crystal palace in the water. On the opposite bank stand three castles, standing in a tripod pattern. The two to the left and right, nearer, resemble palaces. The one on the left, surrounded by water, sits on Lover's Island and is shrouded in pine and cypress trees. Within the castle, there is a stele depicting Feng Hou's Eight Formations and a charming cabin for tourists and holidaymakers.
It is recommended to play for 3 hours.
30 yuan/person
8:00-17:30
The Yellow Emperor Palace is dedicated to the Yellow Emperor (Huangdi), an important figure in Chinese history and mythology, believed to have ruled around 2700 BCE. He is considered the ancestor of all Chinese people and is often associated with the creation of Chinese civilization. The palace is a symbol of Chinese culture and serves as a place of worship and historical reflection.
The Yellow Emperor Palace is located in the western part of Zhengzhou, Henan. You can reach it by taxi or public bus. The site is a short drive from the city center and is also accessible by walking from nearby attractions.
The palace is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is in the morning when it's less crowded, and the weather is cooler.
The entrance fee is around 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, or online through various Chinese tourism platforms for convenience.
Advance booking is not mandatory but recommended during peak seasons or holidays to avoid long lines and ensure entry.
You will need about 1 to 2 hours to explore the Yellow Emperor Palace, depending on your interest in the historical and cultural exhibits.
Key highlights include the main temple dedicated to the Yellow Emperor, the surrounding gardens, and the exhibitions that detail the history and legend of the Yellow Emperor and ancient Chinese civilization.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some English-speaking guides can be arranged if requested. Audio guides in multiple languages, including English, may also be available.
The best photography spots are around the main temple and in the garden area, where you can capture the beauty of the palace against the backdrop of Zhengzhou’s natural landscape.
Start by visiting the main temple, then explore the surrounding garden areas. Finish by visiting the cultural exhibitions and taking a peaceful walk around the site to soak in the atmosphere.
There are no special night visits or light shows at the Yellow Emperor Palace. The site is designed for daytime visits, focusing on historical and cultural exploration.
The site can get crowded during weekends and holidays. For a quieter experience, visit during weekdays, especially in the morning hours.
Basic facilities such as toilets, water, and rest areas are available on-site. There is a small souvenir shop selling cultural artifacts and snacks.
The Yellow Emperor Palace is partially accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, though some areas may require assistance due to uneven terrain. The main temple and surrounding gardens are accessible for most visitors.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are the most convenient methods of payment. Credit cards may not be widely accepted.
There are a few small eateries near the Yellow Emperor Palace that serve traditional Chinese dishes. For a wider selection, head to the city center of Zhengzhou where many restaurants offer a variety of options.
Vegetarian food options are available at nearby eateries, but halal and vegan options may be limited. It’s best to check the menu or ask the restaurant staff.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in the nearby city center of Zhengzhou, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. Some hotels near the Yellow Emperor Palace offer shuttle services to the site.
Nearby attractions include the Shaolin Temple, Longmen Grottoes, and the Zhengzhou Museum. These can easily be visited on a day trip from the Yellow Emperor Palace.
Souvenir shops at the site sell traditional Chinese items such as calligraphy brushes, small statues of the Yellow Emperor, and local artwork. You can also find books about Chinese history and culture.
After visiting, taxis and public buses are available to continue your trip. If you’re planning to visit other landmarks in Zhengzhou, taking a taxi or hiring a private car can be the most convenient option.
