Live Your Best Lives
Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk along the embankment, take photos of the Yellow River, and observe the various birds and wildlife. There are also opportunities for boating or cycling, offering a peaceful experience with panoramic river views.
As the old saying goes, "The Yellow River has a copper head, an iron tail, and a tofu waist." Locals in Kaifeng say, "The Kaifeng section of the river is the tofu waist of the tofu waist." In the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River, silt accumulation raises the riverbed, creating a "hanging river above the ground." The higher the riverbed, the higher the levee. Since Kaifeng is low-lying, the entire levee "hangs" over the heads of the city's residents. During flood season, the Yellow River rises more than ten meters above the ground in Kaifeng, creating a breathtaking and spectacular scene of "a hanging river in the air, a towering levee."
Historically, the Kaifeng section of the Yellow River was extremely ferocious. According to historical records, from the time the Yellow River changed its course near Kaifeng in the Jin Dynasty to the end of the Qing Dynasty, the Kaifeng section of the Yellow River broke its banks more than 120 times, and Kaifeng City was flooded seven times.
About 10 kilometers north of Kaifeng City, the Liuyuankou Water Conservancy Scenic Area offers stunning views of the Kaifeng section of the Yellow River levee. This was once where Lin Zexu regulated the Yellow River. Climbing the levee, you can clearly see the water rising 3 to 5 meters above the ground within. The vast river and towering levee create a majestic scene.
The warm temperate continental monsoon climate allows you to not only admire the magnificent Yellow River levee, but also visit the exhibition hall in the Yellow River Song Scenic Area, breathe the fresh air of nature in the dense forest scenic area, and taste fresh river fish and delicious farm dishes at nearby farmhouses. It is a suitable place for travel in all seasons.
Enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Yellow River by boat, and visit scenic spots along the riverbanks, such as the "Iron Rhinoceros Guarding the River," the Yellow River Mother Sculpture, and the Chenqiaoyi Scenic Area. Heading north along the Iron Rhinoceros, you can ascend the River Viewing Pavilion to admire the spectacular sight of the hanging river and experience the majestic aura of "the Yellow River flows from heaven, rushing to the sea, never to return." Heading west along the Lin Gong Dike, you'll reach Dam No. 42. At its center stands a black marble monument inscribed with the words "We must manage the Yellow River well." Adjacent to the monument are the unique Feiyan Pavilion and the Hexagonal Pavilion, flanked by lush flowers and weeping willows. From the Listening to the Waves Corridor, you can hear the roaring waves of the Yellow River.
It is recommended to play for 2 hours.
free
Open all day
The Kaifeng section of the Yellow River embankment is significant for its role in flood control and water management. The embankment has been integral to the development of the surrounding areas and has a rich history dating back to ancient times.
The embankment is located along the Yellow River, accessible by taxi, public bus, or car. The location is relatively easy to reach from Kaifeng city center, and visitors can enjoy a walk along the riverbank.
The embankment is open 24 hours a day, but the best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and to enjoy the serene atmosphere.
There is no entrance fee to access the embankment. It is open to the public for free, and no tickets are required.
No tickets are required for entry, so booking in advance is not necessary.
It typically takes around 1 to 2 hours to walk along the embankment, enjoy the views, and take photographs. For those who wish to take part in activities like boating, additional time may be needed.
The main highlight is the Yellow River itself, with stunning views of the riverbanks. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby park areas, watch the wildlife, and capture photographs of the river’s flow.
Guided tours are not commonly available at this site, but there may be occasional local guides offering insights. Most visitors explore the area independently.
The best photography spots are along the embankment, where you can capture the panoramic views of the river. Look for elevated spots for a broader perspective of the surrounding landscape.
It’s recommended to start from the main entry point and walk along the embankment toward the river's edge. Make stops at the observation points for photos and enjoy the peaceful environment before returning along the path.
While night visits are possible, there are no light shows or special tours available at the embankment. The area is quiet at night, offering a serene experience.
The area can be moderately crowded on weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There may be small local food vendors, but there are no major restaurants or shops along the embankment.
The embankment is relatively accessible, with paved paths suitable for elderly visitors and those with mobility issues. Children will enjoy the open space and river views.
No payments are required for entry. However, for food or souvenirs at nearby vendors, mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. Cash may also be accepted in some cases.
There are several local restaurants and small cafes in the vicinity offering traditional Chinese dishes. The area is more focused on outdoor activities, so dining options may be limited.
Vegetarian options are commonly available in nearby restaurants, as many local dishes include tofu and vegetables. Halal food options may be available in specific restaurants catering to the Muslim community.
There are several budget and mid-range hotels nearby, with more luxurious accommodations available in the city center of Kaifeng, which is a short drive away.
Nearby attractions include the Kaifeng City Wall, Iron Pagoda, and Longting Park. These can easily be visited in a day trip, as they are all located relatively close to the Yellow River embankment.
Souvenir shops are sparse along the embankment, but visitors can find traditional Kaifeng crafts, such as paper-cuttings, paintings, and local snacks, in nearby markets.
After visiting, taxis, buses, or ride-hailing services like Didi can be used to continue the trip to other nearby attractions in Kaifeng. Public transport options are also available to reach the city center or other landmarks.
