Zhenghan Ancient City

Introducing the Ancient City of Zheng and Han

Located near the city center of Xinzheng, the Zheng-Han Ancient City is the remains of the capitals of the states of Zheng and Han during the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period. The city wall, shaped like an irregular triangle, has a 20-kilometer circumference and is constructed of rammed earth in layers. Several mahjong structures adorn the northern perimeter, representing China's earliest modern city wall defenses.

The ancient city walls of Zheng and Han are dotted with relics, including the remains of four city gates. A north-south wall divided the city into two parts, east and west. The western part houses the Han palace complex, palace areas, and silk reeling workshops. The eastern part contains the remains of Zheng palaces and temples, sacrificial ceremonies, bronze casting sites, and numerous other Korean iron, bone, jade, and pottery production sites. Cemeteries of Zheng and Han nobles are also found within and around the city walls, while civilian burial areas are primarily located along the east bank of the Huangshui River to the east of the city, and along the south and west banks of the Shuangli River to the west.

A stele without any words was unearthed here. The stele is in the shape of a gui, as sharp as a dagger, with an ear on each side of the upper body and a hole in the middle of the lower body. It has a unique shape and is known as "the first stele in China."

Climate and best time to travel

temperate monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to play for 1 to 2 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Zhenghan Ancient City

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Zhenghan Ancient City is a historic urban complex in Zhengzhou, built to preserve and showcase the architecture and lifestyle of the Zhengzhou-Han era, reflecting the long urban history of Zhengzhou which served as a Bronze-Age capital zone and later imperial city. The larger area of Zhengzhou has rich archaeological heritage — for example the Zhengzhou Shang City Ruins date back about 3,600 years.
By visiting the ancient-city district you gain insight into the urban evolution of Zhengzhou and central China.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

It is located in the city of Zhengzhou (郑州), Henan Province, China — in the urban area.
How to get there:

• Take a taxi or ride-hailing vehicle from central Zhengzhou — simple and direct.
• Use local bus routes that serve the historic district or ancient-city area (check local bus maps).
• If staying nearby, you can walk from many central hotels or metro stations in Zhengzhou into the ancient-city quarter.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Opening hours: Typically the public areas of the ancient city are open during daytime into the evening (often until 21:00 or later for the illuminated sections).
Best times to visit: Late afternoon to early evening for pleasant lighting and fewer midday crowds; weekdays are less busy. Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather for strolling.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fee: Many of the streets and public areas in Zhenghan Ancient City may be free to enter; special exhibitions or buildings may require tickets.
Tickets: If needed, they can be purchased offline at the entrance or online via the site’s official platform or ticket-app. It’s wise to check the latest price ahead of your visit.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is probably not mandatory for regular days unless you plan to visit a special exhibition or large event. On weekends or holidays, booking a day ahead is a good idea to guarantee entry and avoid queuing.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Allow around 1 – 2 hours for a relaxed wander through the main streets and historic buildings.
If you plan to explore all the side alleys, shop, take photography breaks and visit museums inside the district, allocate 3 – 4 hours.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main ancient city gate and wall section — impressive architecture and photo spot.
• The preserved historic street with traditional buildings, craft shops, cafés — gives a feel of the old town.
• Any museum or exhibition inside the district that displays the region’s history, e.g., bronze culture of Zhengzhou.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Information on dedicated guided tours or audio guides is limited; visitors may hire a local guide in Zhengzhou who speaks English or other languages if they want a fuller interpretation of the history.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The ancient-city gate viewed from the plaza or street with the wall as backdrop.

• At dusk when the lights illuminate the old-town buildings and street lamps, creating atmospheric shots.

• From an upper balcony or mezzanine of one of the cafés overlooking the historic street — gives a layered composition of roofs and street below.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main door or gate of the ancient-city area → stroll the central historic street → detour into side alleys for craft shops and cafés → visit any exhibition or historic building inside → finish at a viewpoint or tea-house overlooking the street for rest and photo.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Yes — the ancient-city streets are often lit in the evening, offering a pleasant atmosphere for an evening walk. Special light-shows may occur during festivals or holidays (check local event calendar).

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

On weekends and holidays the historic district may get busier (local tourists). The least crowded times are weekday mornings or late evenings. Early arrival helps beat the crowds and enjoy quieter streets.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Facilities: Toilets are available in the district near major entrances and cafés. There are plenty of food options (snack stalls, restaurants, teahouses) and souvenir/ craft shops. Benches, rest-areas and cafés provide comfortable breaks.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes — most of the historic street area is flat and accessible. For wheelchair access or limited-mobility visitors, confirm whether there are ramps at entrances and step-free paths especially in older buildings. Children will enjoy the street scene and shops; supervise them in busy areas.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and bank cards are widely accepted in Zhengzhou’s tourist areas including this ancient city. However it’s wise to carry some cash for small vendors, tips or in case of connectivity issues.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Inside the ancient city district you’ll find cafés, teahouses and restaurants offering local Henan cuisine, snacks and drinks. Surrounding the district in Zhengzhou there are many dining options from street food to sit-down restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes — given Zhengzhou’s diverse dining scene you can find vegetarian/vegan cafés and some halal-friendly restaurants, especially in the city centre. Ask at restaurant entrances for halal certification if needed.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are multiple hotels from budget to mid-range near central Zhengzhou and near the ancient-city area. Staying nearby gives you ease of access for early or evening visits to the historic district.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Henan Museum — major museum of Central China culture, located in Zhengzhou city.
• Zhengzhou Shang City Ruins — archaeological site of the ancient Shang Dynasty capital in Zhengzhou.
• The city centre shopping districts and night markets of Zhengzhou, for modern contrast to the ancient-city walk.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes — souvenir shops in the ancient city sell items such as historical-style postcards, local crafts, small replicas of ancient artefacts, teas, calligraphy items, and Henan-province specialty snacks.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After your visit you can walk or take a taxi to nearby metro stations or bus stops in Zhengzhou. If continuing to other attractions like Henan Museum or the Shang Ruins, local bus or taxi are convenient. For further travel, Zhengzhou is a major transport hub with high-speed rail and airport connections.