Live Your Best Lives
Explore the vast cherry orchards during the cherry blossom season, take a peaceful stroll through the scenic paths, and enjoy a boat ride on the nearby lake. The area is ideal for photography, picnics, and enjoying nature.
Zhengzhou Yingtaogou Scenic Area is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction located in the southwest of Erqi District, about 10 kilometers from the city center. It is directly accessible via the Zhengdeng Expressway, Songshan South Road, University South Road, Yingtaogou Station of Zhengzhou Southwest Ring Expressway and Houzhai Station of Zhengyao Expressway, making transportation very convenient.
It has been successively rated as the Zhengkai International Marathon Training Base, the Provincial Healthy Aerobics Base, the Zhengzhou Science Popularization Practice Base and the Key Tourist Attraction. It has also been rated as one of the five rural tourism standardization construction pilot projects in the province.
The scenic area boasts nearly 10,000 mu (approximately 10,000 mu) of cherry plantations, earning it the reputation of "Hundred Miles of Cherry Valley." Its high-quality cherries have been recognized as one of Zhengzhou's "Ten Historical Products." The lush vegetation and pleasant scenery create a scene of idyllic beauty. Artwork from Zhengzhou-era porcelain from the Cherry Valley was exhibited at the Yeosu Expo in South Korea and has been exported internationally as a state gift.
With a temperate monsoon climate, cherry trees begin blooming in mid-March. Every March, the area becomes a sea of cherry blossoms, with birds singing and the fragrance filling the air. The cherry blossoms ripen in early May and are ready for picking. March to June is the best time to visit.
The scenic area features cherry planting and picking, farm-style cuisine, and leisure fishing, boasting over 60 distinctive farmhouses. Nearly ten establishments have established themselves, offering signature dishes such as whole fish banquets, roasted whole lamb, and clay pot chicken. The scenic area's leisure fishing and barbecue offerings are renowned far and wide. The area also actively promotes pollution-free food tourism, featuring farm-style game dishes like tilapia, free-range chicken, braised glutinous rice bowls, and locust flower and toon dishes, attracting visitors who want to "eat and enjoy Cherry Valley."
It is recommended to play for about 5 hours.
10 yuan/person
08:00-20:00
Cherry Valley Scenic Area is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and natural landscape. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, especially during the cherry blossom season in spring, when the valley is covered with vibrant blooms.
The Cherry Valley Scenic Area is located in Zhengzhou, Henan. You can reach the area by taxi, bus, or driving. There are public buses that connect the area to major parts of the city, and it is also accessible via walking from nearby hotels.
The Cherry Valley Scenic Area is open year-round, with peak visiting times during the cherry blossom season (typically in March and April). The best time to visit is during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the park.
The entrance fee is generally around 30-50 CNY, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and online tickets may also be available during peak seasons for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary, except during peak times like the cherry blossom season. It is recommended to book at least a few days in advance during busy periods.
It usually takes about 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the Cherry Valley Scenic Area, especially if you plan to visit the lake, stroll through the cherry orchards, and relax in the scenic spots.
The cherry blossoms during spring, the peaceful lake area for boat rides, and the walking trails lined with trees are must-see highlights. The panoramic views of the valley from elevated spots are also highly recommended for photography.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides might be available, but it’s better to check in advance. Some local guides may offer informal tours in English, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The best viewpoints are along the walking trails, near the lake, and from elevated spots within the park. The cherry blossoms in spring provide stunning photo opportunities, as do the lakeside scenes.
Start your visit with a stroll through the cherry orchards, enjoy a boat ride on the lake, and then explore the walking trails. End your visit by relaxing at one of the scenic rest areas, enjoying a picnic or the peaceful environment.
Night visits are not available, as the park closes in the early evening. There are no light shows or special night tours. Daytime visits are best to enjoy the natural beauty of the valley.
The Cherry Valley Scenic Area is most crowded during the cherry blossom season. The least crowded times are typically early in the morning on weekdays, particularly outside of peak tourist seasons.
The park has public toilets, water fountains, and designated rest areas. There are a few small shops near the entrance selling snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. It’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks for a more comfortable experience.
The Cherry Valley Scenic Area is partially accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with paved paths and resting spots along the trails. However, some areas may have uneven terrain or require walking on natural trails.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Credit cards may be accepted at some shops but are less common throughout the park.
There are no full-service restaurants inside the Cherry Valley Scenic Area, but there are a few nearby cafes and small eateries offering local snacks and light meals. For a larger meal, you can explore restaurants in the nearby city center of Zhengzhou.
Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at some nearby restaurants, but halal options may be limited in the immediate area. It’s best to check with local eateries in Zhengzhou for more specific dietary requirements.
There are several hotels near the Cherry Valley Scenic Area, including budget options and mid-range accommodations. Staying in Zhengzhou city center provides a wider range of accommodations to suit various preferences.
Nearby attractions include the Zhengzhou Museum, Shaolin Temple, and the Yellow River Scenic Area. These sites can be combined for a full day of sightseeing, with convenient transportation options between them.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling local crafts, including cherry-themed items, traditional Chinese handicrafts, and local snacks. You can purchase small gifts to remember your visit.
After visiting, taxis, buses, and the Zhengzhou metro are available for easy transportation. For further destinations, trains and long-distance buses from Zhengzhou station provide excellent options to continue your journey.
