Back from Zhengzhou! July-August is NOT recommended, it's just too...

💰 Budget reference (per person 800+ CNY)

- Transport: 150 CNY (subway + Didi, attractions are concentrated)
- Tickets: 250 CNY (combo tickets for must-visit spots offer better value)
- Accommodation: 200 CNY/night (budget hotels in commercial areas)
- Dining: 200 CNY (authentic Henan flavors every meal!)

🏯 Must-visit attractions & itinerary

📍Day1: Time-traveling cultural marathon

- Morning: Henan Museum (free, book in advance!) → See Jiahu bone flute & Fu Hao owl-shaped zun, free guided tour at 9:30.
- Lunch: Heji Stewed Noodles (Renmin Road branch) → Lamb noodles + sweet garlic combo, 40 CNY/person.
- Afternoon: Zhengzhou Shangdu Ruins Museum → 3600-year-old Shang Dynasty city wall + 4D archaeological interaction, mind-blowing.
- Evening: Jiankang Road Night Market → Almond tea, fried jelly noodles, BBQ - ultimate local vibe.

📍Day2: Yellow River charm + theatrical extravaganza

- Morning: Yellow River Cultural Park (60 CNY ticket) → Cable car ride for "hanging river" spectacle, epic photos at Yan-Huang Emperors statue.
- Lunch: Huifengyuan Stewed Noodles near park → Curry-based noodles, avoid overpriced "Yellow River carp".
- Afternoon: Only Henan·Drama Fantasy City (main show 290 CNY) → 21 immersive plays! Night light show feels like time travel.

📍Day3: Shaolin kung fu + creative awakening

- Full day: Songshan Shaolin Temple (1.5h from downtown) → 10:30 martial arts show + Pagoda Forest, take cable car to Sanhuangzhai for geological wonders.
- Evening: Zhengzhou Memory·Oil Factory Creative Park → Red-brick factories turned into cafes/retro markets, hipster paradise.

🍜 Food hit list | Follow locals' recommendations!

✅ Must-try authentic flavors:

- Fangzhongshan Spicy Soup (flagship store): Mild version with fried dough sticks, breakfast essential.
- Geji Steamed Buns (Foniu Road branch): Red bean porridge + braised pork buns, carb overload heaven.
- Shinan Road Night Market: Zhaojiuji tripe hotpot, Yehongxiao spicy crawfish tails - mouth-numbing good!

🚫 Avoid:

- "Luxury ingredient" noodles in scenic areas (sea cucumber/abalone versions aren't worth it).
- Tourist trap set meals near Erqi Square - stick to established eateries.

🏨 Accommodation picks | Location + value kings

- Budget: Moshang Qingya Hotel (Erqi Wanda branch) → Metro access + 180° city view rooms, 130 CNY/person, kids' tents available.
- Premium: Zhengzhou East Station Zhengshang Jianguo Hotel → Loft suites + themed family rooms, executive rooms include afternoon tea.
- Night owls: Meihao Lizhi Hotel (Huayuan Road branch) → Giant projector rooms + free late-night snacks, near Zhenghong City night market.

💡 Pro tips

1. Transport: Avoid taxis during rush hours (7:30-9:00, 17:30-19:30)! Metro Line 1 covers main attractions.
2. Tickets: Book Shaolin Temple + Drama Fantasy City 1 day ahead to skip lines!
3. Gear: July temps exceed 35℃! Sun hat + mini fan + Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid are lifesavers.