Back from Zhoukou, here's the ultimate guide crafted through sleepless nights!

🌅 July, with its blazing sunshine and endless cicada songs, is the perfect time to embark on a journey and explore the world. If you're yearning for a trip that delves deep into history and culture while embracing natural beauty, then Zhoukou is undoubtedly your ideal destination. Nestled in southeastern Henan, this city is like a pearl gently polished by time, quietly radiating its unique charm. Now, follow this guide and begin your marvelous Zhoukou adventure!

💡【First Impressions of Zhoukou】

Located in southeastern Henan, in the heart of the Huang-Huai Plain, Zhoukou is a land steeped in history and rich cultural heritage. It is the hometown of Fuxi and Laozi, bearing the origins of Chinese civilization. The Shaying River flows through the city, lending it a lively and graceful charm. Strolling through its streets and alleys, you can feel the weight of ancient culture while touching the pulse of modern life.

📅【3-Day Itinerary】

Day 1: Cultural Roots Tour
☀️ Morning: Upon arrival in Zhoukou, head straight to the "First Mausoleum Under Heaven"—Taihao Mausoleum. This is the burial site of Fuxi, the ancestor of Chinese civilization. The grand ancient architecture from the Ming and Qing dynasties stands solemnly amidst lush thousand-year-old cypress trees, as if whispering tales of the past. Don’t miss touching the "Ear Cypress," said to be hollow and capable of transmitting sounds—legend has it Fuxi once listened to the people’s voices here. Also, find the stone carvings of the Eight Trigrams and use your phone’s compass to marvel at the precision of ancient wisdom.
🍜 Lunch: Try the local specialty, Huaiyang fried rice jelly, at a nearby restaurant—crispy on the outside, soft and chewy inside, utterly delicious.
🌅 Afternoon: From Taihao Mausoleum, proceed to the Pingliangtai Ancient City Ruins in Huaiyang. Dating back 4,300 years, this is China’s earliest square-shaped city site. Touch the ancient walls and the earliest drainage pipes, and feel the grandeur and mystery of antiquity.
🌃 Evening: Return to the city center and visit Zhoukou’s Guandi Temple. Built by Shanxi and Shaanxi merchants during the Qing Dynasty, this grand guild hall features exquisite wood and stone carvings. Lit up at night, it exudes an elegant, timeless charm. Afterward, explore the nearby snack street for a taste of Zhoukou’s vibrant local flavors.

Day 2: Taoist Culture Exploration
☀️ Morning: Journey to Laozi’s Hometown, which includes attractions like Taiqing Palace and Mingdao Palace—the birthplace of Taoist culture. At Taiqing Palace, visit Laozi’s birthplace and the Forest of Steles inscribed with the Tao Te Ching, immersing yourself in the profundity of Taoist philosophy. Mingdao Palace, where Laozi is said to have ascended to immortality, echoes with the imagined sounds of his teachings.
🍲 Lunch: At Zhenbutong Restaurant in Luyi County, savor local specialties like crispy fried meatballs and almond tea—crispy outside, tender inside, paired with sweet, velvety almond tea for a perfect combination.
🛀 Afternoon: Unwind at the Golden Monkey Hot Spring Resort. Soak in therapeutic hot springs or enjoy water park attractions, making it ideal for families or couples.
🏨 Evening: Stay overnight at the Golden Monkey Hot Spring Hotel or a nearby boutique homestay for a peaceful retreat.

Day 3: Eco-Leisure Tour
☀️ Morning: Explore the Shaying River Scenic Area. Stroll or cycle along the riverside path, admiring the picturesque views of the river shimmering under the sun, with boats gliding by and the cityscape blending harmoniously with nature. The best photo spot is at the Rubber Dam Viewing Platform—bring a drone for stunning aerial shots.
🍜 Lunch: Nearby, try Xiangcheng spicy soup and five-spice lamb trotters—the soup is aromatic and spicy, while the trotters are tender and flavorful, leaving a lasting impression.
🛍 Afternoon: Before departing, pick up Zhoukou souvenirs like Li Family smoked meat (vacuum-packed for convenience, with firm texture and rich aroma) or Taihao Mausoleum clay sculptures—exquisite folk art pieces.

🏞【Nearby Attractions】

• Longhu National Wetland Park: East of Huaiyang County, this vast lake is rich in ecological resources. In summer, lotus flowers bloom spectacularly—boating through them feels like stepping into a painting.

• Xihua Nuwa City: The legendary birthplace of Nuwa, who mended the heavens and created humans. Sites like the Stone-Mending Platform and Clay-Figurine Workshop evoke mystical tales of life’s origins.

• Ye Family Manor: A magnificent Qing Dynasty complex built over 50 years, featuring three grand courtyards. Admire its unique architecture while sipping tea and listening to drum storytelling for an authentic folk experience.

🍱【Must-Try Foods】

• Xiaoyao Spicy Soup: Zhoukou’s iconic dish—fiery, aromatic, and energizing. Head to the Wuyi Road branch in Chuanhui District for the most authentic taste.

• Dengcheng Pork Trotters: Glossy, tender, and rich in collagen—satisfyingly fatty without greasiness.

• Taikong Pork Knuckle: Slow-cooked to perfection, with silky skin and flavorful meat, best enjoyed with a special dipping sauce.

• Dry-Fried Spiral Eel: Crispy, spicy, and addictive—even the bones are edible.

🏠【Accommodation Tips】

• Budget: Hanting Hotel (Renmin Road Branch)—affordable and conveniently located.

• Boutique: Wuyue Huafu Homestay—stylish rooms, some with rooftop views for a unique stay.

• Luxury: Huaiyang Xihuang Hotel’s Longhu Lake View Rooms—elegant ambiance and impeccable service.

🎉 Zhoukou, a city brimming with historical allure and natural beauty, hides surprises in every corner, waiting for you to explore. Pack your bags and set off on this extraordinary journey!