
Xinzheng is the hometown of jujubes, and jujubes are a symbol of the city. The history of jujube cultivation in Xinzheng dates back over 8,000 years to the Peiligang culture period. Since the founding of the People's Republic of China, the area of jujube trees has expanded to 150,000 mu (approximately 1,000 hectares), with over 30 varieties . In addition to the two excellent varieties, Gray and Heart, there are also premium varieties like June Fresh, September Green, Unsophisticated, and Suzao, as well as off-season varieties like Snow and Winter.
Here, you can pick dates, pull peanuts, eat farm meals, stay in farm houses, and enjoy farm fun. You can also visit the Ancient Chinese Date Garden, the Yellow Emperor's Date Viewing Platform, the Ten Thousand Mu Red Date Garden, the Forest Park and other landscapes, experience the joy of harvest firsthand, and enjoy the harmonious and beautiful rural scenery.
The Chinese Date Country Tour is an eco-tourism activity launched by Xinzheng City that integrates viewing, entertainment, participation and knowledge. It provides a new tourist destination for urban residents who have lived in the city for a long time to return to nature.
" On the 15th day of the eighth month, the ground is covered with red agate . " Golden autumn is the season for jujube harvest.
Recommended play time: more than 3 hours
8:00-20:00
Zaoxiang, located in Xinzheng, Henan, is a historical town with deep cultural roots in Chinese history. It is known for its traditional architecture and its role in local agriculture. The area is rich in cultural heritage, with old temples, ancient houses, and unique folk traditions still preserved today.
Zaoxiang is situated in Xinzheng, Henan, which is part of the greater Zhengzhou area. The town is accessible by taxi or bus from Zhengzhou. For those traveling from Zhengzhou, taking a bus is convenient, and a taxi ride will take around 30-40 minutes. The area is not served by a metro line, so public transportation or driving are the best options.
Zaoxiang itself is an open-air area with no specific opening hours, but the best time to visit is in the spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the landscape is most scenic. For temples and historical sites, it is advisable to visit during daylight hours, ideally between 9 AM and 5 PM.
Most attractions in Zaoxiang, such as temples and historical sites, do not charge an entrance fee. However, certain private sites may charge small fees for entry. Tickets for any specific tours can generally be bought onsite. It’s advisable to carry cash, as mobile payments may not be widely accepted in all rural areas.
Booking in advance is not required for most attractions in Zaoxiang, as the area is not heavily commercialized. However, if you are visiting during a peak tourist season or for a special event, it’s a good idea to book any guided tours a few days in advance to ensure availability.
You can fully explore Zaoxiang in a half-day (3-4 hours). This allows time to visit the main attractions, walk through the local area, and interact with the culture. If you plan to visit nearby sites or take a longer walk through the countryside, a full day may be needed.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, but English-speaking guides may be limited. It’s recommended to inquire in advance or hire a local guide for a more personalized experience.
The best viewpoints are at the top of the local temples or nearby hills, where you can capture both the architecture and the surrounding countryside. The ancient streets and buildings also offer picturesque opportunities for photography, especially during golden hour.
Start with the main historical attractions, such as temples and ancient houses, then stroll through the local streets to experience the traditional market. Finally, take a walk through the surrounding fields or countryside to enjoy the peaceful nature of Zaoxiang.
Night visits are not commonly available in Zaoxiang, as it is primarily a daytime destination. There are no major light shows, but the town is calm and peaceful in the evenings, making it a great place for a relaxing stroll.
Zaoxiang is generally not crowded, but it can get busier during weekends and Chinese public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons.
Zaoxiang is a rural area with limited accessibility for elderly or disabled visitors, particularly on uneven streets or temple steps. Children will enjoy the open space and traditional atmosphere, though some sites may be challenging for strollers.
Cash is often needed in Zaoxiang, especially at local markets and smaller attractions. Mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) may be accepted at larger establishments, but it’s a good idea to carry cash, especially in more remote areas.
There are small local restaurants serving traditional Henan dishes, such as noodles, dumplings, and stews. Nearby Zhengzhou offers more diverse dining options, including international cuisine and larger restaurants.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in larger towns like Zhengzhou. However, halal food may not be as readily available in Zaoxiang itself but can be found in larger cities in the region.
Accommodation options are limited in Zaoxiang itself, but there are several hotels in Zhengzhou, which is around a 30-minute drive away. Hotels in Zhengzhou range from budget to luxury options, including international chains.
Local markets in Zaoxiang offer traditional handicrafts, including pottery, textiles, and folk art. The souvenirs here reflect the cultural heritage of Henan and are great for those looking for authentic, locally made items.
From Zaoxiang, taxis or buses can take you to Zhengzhou or other nearby cities. The Zhengzhou Railway Station offers extensive train connections for onward travel to other parts of China.