Zhengzhou Travel Guide

Zhengzhou, the capital of Henan Province, is located in the heart of the Central Plains and serves as one of the important cradles of Chinese civilization. As a major transportation hub in China, Zhengzhou boasts rich historical culture and modern urban landscapes.

Must-Visit Attractions:
1. Yellow River Scenic Area: Located in the northwest of Zhengzhou, visitors can experience the grandeur of the Yellow River up close, see the giant statues of Emperor Yan and Emperor Huang, and explore the Yellow River Geological Museum.
2. Shaolin Temple: About 1.5 hours' drive from downtown, it's the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Chinese martial arts, where you can watch Shaolin Kung Fu performances.
3. Henan Museum: Houses numerous precious cultural relics and systematically displays the development of Central Plains civilization. Free admission with advance reservation required.
4. Erqi Memorial Tower: A landmark building commemorating the Beijing-Hankou Railway Strike, offering panoramic city views from the top.
5. Shangdu Ruins Museum: Showcases Zhengzhou's history as an early Shang Dynasty capital, revealing the urban landscape from 3,600 years ago.

Local Delicacies:
1. Stewed Noodles: Zhengzhou's most representative noodle dish. Recommended: Heji Stewed Noodles and Xiaoji Three-Delicacy Stewed Noodles.
2. Spicy Soup: Fangzhongshan Spicy Soup is the most famous, best paired with fried dough sticks or pan-fried buns.
3. Yellow River Carp: Tender flesh, recommended sweet and sour style.
4. Braised Mutton: Signature dish at the time-honored Geji Braised Pancake restaurant.
5. Stewed Vegetables: Local home-style dish with various ingredients.

Accommodation Recommendations:
1. Luxury: Le Méridien Zhengzhou, JW Marriott Hotel Zhengzhou
2. Mid-range: Jinji Hotel (Erqi Square Branch), Home Inn Business Hotel (Zhengzhou East Station)
3. Budget: 7 Days Inn, Hanting Hotel and other chain brands

Transportation Guide:
1. Airport: Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport, accessible via Metro Suburban Line
2. High-speed Rail: Zhengzhou East Station and Zhengzhou Station connect to major cities nationwide
3. Metro: 7 operational lines covering main attractions and commercial areas
4. Bus: Extensive network with mobile payment support

Best Travel Seasons: Spring and autumn (April-May, September-October) with pleasant weather. Summers are hot, while winters are cold but less crowded.

Shopping Recommendations:
1. Dennis David City: High-end shopping mall
2. Zhenghong City: Trendy mall popular among young people
3. Erqi Commercial Area: Established shopping district with affordable prices

Tips:
1. Zhengzhou dialect is easy to understand, Mandarin communication is smooth
2. Sun protection in summer, warm clothing in winter
3. Advance reservation recommended for museum visits
4. For local snacks, visit Jiankang Road Night Market or Nongke Road Bar Street