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July 25, 2025
1 viewsExplore Ancient Kaifeng: 7-Day Family Cultural Journey with Mid-Range Budget
Discover Song Dynasty heritage, family-friendly attractions, and authentic Henan cuisine in this historic capital.
Family TravelHistory & CultureMid-Range TravelKaifeng
Quick Overview
Chinese Name: 开封
Location: Henan Province, China
Famous For: Song Dynasty Capital,Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden,Iron Pagoda
Daily Cost: $50-80 per person
Best Season: March-May, September-November
Introduction: Why Visit Kaifeng?
As the ancient capital of Song Dynasty, Kaifeng offers a unique blend of historical depth and family-friendly attractions. Home to iconic landmarks like Iron Pagoda (one of China's oldest琉璃塔) and the world's first theme park Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden, this city provides immersive cultural experiences without overwhelming young travelers. With its walkable old town and budget-friendly options, Kaifeng perfect for mid-range family adventures into China's imperial past.
Best Time to Visit Kaifeng
Ideal Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) for mild weather
🌱Spring: Pleasant 15-25°C temperatures with blooming plum trees in Longting Park. Perfect for outdoor exploration at Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden.
☀️Summer: Hot (30°C+) but offers special night views at Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden's illuminated waterways. Remember to bring sun protection.
🍁Autumn: Cool 20°C days with vibrant fall colors at Tiansheng Bridge. Ideal for temple visits like Daxiangguo Temple.
❄️Winter: Cold (0-10°C) with fewer crowds. Experience traditional winter festivals at Kaifeng City Museum
Arriving and Leaving Kaifeng
Metro Line 1 connects major attractions. Ride-hailing apps like Didi cost $2-5 within city. Family-friendly option: Traditional rickshaws in historical areas ($15/hour).
Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport [Recommended]
Main international gateway 70km away. Airport shuttle to Kaifeng takes 1.5 hours ($15). Taxis available but cost $120+. High-speed rail connects to Kaifeng Railway Station (30min, $10).
Kaifeng Railway Station
Central station 3km from old town. Direct high-speed trains from Beijing (4.5hr, $40) and Shanghai (5hr, $60). Taxis to city center take 15min ($5).
Where to Stay in Kaifeng: Best Neighborhoods
Gulou District
Heart of old town near Kaifeng Drum Tower. Walkable to Kaifeng Cuisine Street and Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden. Mid-range hotels like 7 Days Inn Kaifeng Train Station offer convenient access.
Longting District
Near Longting Park and Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden. Budget-friendly guesthouses with easy access to historical sites.
Top Things to Do in Kaifeng
Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden
World's first theme park recreating Song Dynasty life. Watch traditional performances, explore replica palaces, and take boat rides along the Bian River.
Iron Pagoda
China's tallest glazed-tile pagoda (56.88m) built in 1049 AD. Climb to upper levels for panoramic city views and admire the earthquake-resistant design.
Longting Park
Former imperial palace site with grand gates and reflecting pool. Participate in seasonal flower festivals and explore Song Dynasty museum exhibits.
Tips
Purchase combo tickets for major attractions at 10-15% discount. Rent audio guides at Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden for immersive historical experience.
What to Eat: Kaifeng Food Guide
Recommended Restaurants
1. Bianjing Huizhan Restaurant
Luxury option with Song Dynasty ambiance. Must-try: Imperial banquet set meals ($50/person). Reservations recommended for weekend dinners.
2. Yuwengui Seafood Restaurant
Modern take on traditional cuisine. Popular for family-friendly set menus ($20/person) featuring local specialties like steamed fish with chili.
![Gulou Night Market Tickets [2025] - Promos, Prices, Reviews ...](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fak-d.tripcdn.com%2Fimages%2F0100k12000eianv3lB2EC.jpg%3Fproc%3Dsource%252Ftrip&w=3840&q=75)
3. Kaifeng Night Market
Open-air food street near Drum Tower. Sample street foods like skewered lamb ($2), sweet osmanthus cake ($1), and scallion pancakes ($0.50).
Signature Dishes
1. Song Dynasty Imperial Cuisine
Historical dishes like 'Lotus Bird's Nest' and 'Gold-threaded Duck'. Try the 8-course tasting menu at Songcheng Restaurant in Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden.
2. Kaifeng Soup Dumplings
Thinner wrappers than Shanghai with richer pork broth. Best at Laizhenbao Soup Dumpling Shop (24-hour operation, cash only).
3. Bianjing Roast Duck
Crispy skin served with plum sauce. Lao Bian's Roast Duck Restaurant uses a 120-year-old recipe and offers duck soup with every meal.
Kaifeng Itinerary: 7 Days Cultural Exploration
DAY 1
Check-in at 7 Days Inn Kaifeng Train Station:Budget-friendly hotel near railway station with complimentary bike rentals
🍽️Dinner at Kaifeng Night Market:Sample street food specialties like lamb skewers and sweet rice cakes
DAY 2
🍳Breakfast at Bianliang Snack Hall:Try soy milk with steamed buns before visiting the park
Tour Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden:Explore full-scale historical reconstructions and watch street performances
🍽️Dinner at Songcheng Restaurant:Experience traditional Song Dynasty dishes in historic setting
DAY 3
🍳Breakfast at hotel:Hotel offers free buffet breakfast
Visit Iron Pagoda:Climb China's tallest glazed pagoda and explore surrounding gardens
Calligraphy Workshop at Kaifeng Calligraphy Museum:Family-friendly brush writing lessons and paper-cutting demonstrations
Kaifeng Travel FAQs
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