Get Your Travel Plan
July 25, 2025
5-Day Kaifeng Family Travel Guide: Exploring Ancient Towns on a Budget
Discover Kaifeng's rich history and budget-friendly attractions for an unforgettable family journey.
Family TravelAncient TownsBudget TravelKaifeng
Quick Overview
Chinese Name: 开封市
Location: Henan Province, China
Famous For: Ancient capital of China,Song Dynasty culture,Historical landmarks
Daily Cost: $80-120 per family of 4
Best Season: March to November
Introduction: Why visit Kaifeng?
Kaifeng, once the political and cultural center of China during the Song Dynasty, offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern accessibility. Families can explore Qingming Riverside Scene Park, wander through Xiangguo Temple, and enjoy budget-friendly local cuisine like Bianjing Roast Duck. With its compact layout and historical charm, Kaifeng is perfect for a low-cost, high-cultural-value family trip.
Best time to visit Kaifeng
Ideal Seasons: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November)
🌱Spring: Mild temperatures (15-25°C) ideal for outdoor exploration. The city hosts traditional festivals with family-friendly activities.
☀️Summer: Hot (25-35°C) but lively. Visit Dragon Pavilion early to avoid crowds and enjoy summer festivals at Iron Pagoda Park.
🍁Autumn: Crisp weather (18-22°C) perfect for walking tours. Experience the Mid-Autumn Festival lantern displays at Baogong Lake.
❄️Winter: Cold (0-10°C) but budget-friendly. Explore Kaifeng Museum indoors and enjoy traditional winter markets.
Arriving and leaving Kaifeng
Affordable options: Metro Line 1 (¥2-5), buses (¥1.5), and shared e-bikes (¥1.5/hour). Families can pre-book taxis via apps like Didi.
Kaifeng North Station [Recommended]
High-speed rail hub 15km from downtown. Taxis cost ¥80-120 (40 mins). Connects to Beijing (1.5h), Shanghai (4h).
Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport
Nearest major airport (75km). Shuttles to Kaifeng cost ¥120 (1.5h). Transfer via Zhengzhou East Station for trains.
Where to stay in Kaifeng: Best Neighborhoods
City Center
Close to major sights. Budget options: Kaifeng Daming Hotel (¥200/night) or Zhongzhou Apartment (¥250/night with kitchenette).
Qingming Riverside Scene Park area
Immersive Song Dynasty atmosphere. Mid-range stays: Kaifeng Meishang Courtyard Hotel (¥350/night with cultural activities).
Top Things to do in Kaifeng
Qingming Riverside Scene Park
A living Song Dynasty theme park with costumed performers, boat rides, and interactive exhibits.
Dragon Pavilion
Iconic Song Dynasty palace ruins with panoramic city views from the 34m pavilion.
Kaifeng Iron Pagoda
800-year-old glazed brick tower with evening light shows and family-friendly folklore exhibitions.
Tips
Buy combined tickets for multiple attractions to save 20-30%.
What to eat: Kaifeng food Guide
Recommended Restaurants
1. Xiangguo Temple Vegetarian Restaurant
Monastery-run eatery offering healthy Buddhist cuisine with kid-friendly options. ¥20 per person.
![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)
2. Drum Tower Night Market
Open-air food paradise with street food stalls selling skewers, dumplings, and sweet red bean cakes.
Signature Dishes
1. Bianjing Roast Duck
Crispy duck with Song Dynasty-era seasoning, best at Hongxun Roast Duck near Drum Tower.
2. Stir-fried Liangfen Noodles
Local specialty with glass noodles and spicy peanut sauce. Try at Shili Noodle Shop (family portions from ¥15).
Kaifeng itinerary: 5 Days Family Plan
DAY 1
Arrival at Kaifeng North Station:Pre-book taxi via Didi for family transfer (¥100)
🥗Lunch at Meishang Courtyard Hotel:Taste local dumplings and steamed buns
Qingming Riverside Scene Park:Watch Song Dynasty acrobatics and boat ride
DAY 2
🍳Breakfast at hotel:Inclusive meal with local specialties
Dragon Pavilion:Learn about imperial history with interactive exhibits
Kaifeng Travel FAQs
Welcome to China
Go2China
Your AI-powered China travel companion