Get Your Travel Plan
July 25, 2025
7 Days of History and Culture: A Solo Traveler's Guide to Kaifeng
Explore ancient capitals, temple gardens, and Song Dynasty charm in China's cultural heartland
Ancient TownsSolo TravelMid-Range Travel
Quick Overview
Chinese Name: 开封市
Location: Henan Province, China
Famous For: Seven Ancient Capitals,Song Dynasty Heritage,Bao Gong Culture
Daily Cost: $50-80 USD
Best Season: March-June, September-October
Introduction: Why visit Kaifeng?
Kaifeng, a city with over 2,700 years of history, served as China's political and cultural center during eight dynasties. As a key node on the ancient Silk Road, it witnessed the glory of Song Dynasty's 'Bianjing' era. This guide reveals hidden gems and classic attractions perfect for solo travelers exploring China's ancient heartland.
Best time to visit Kaifeng
Ideal Seasons: Spring (Mar-Jun) and Autumn (Sep-Oct)
🌱Spring: Pleasant temperatures (15-28°C) for outdoor exploration, especially during the annual Chrysanthemum Flower Show in October
☀️Summer: Hot and humid (30-35°C) but offers unique night markets and Yellow River festivals
🍁Autumn: Cool breezes (20-25°C) with vibrant fall foliage in Millennium City Park
❄️Winter: Chilly (0-10°C) but ideal for experiencing traditional winter customs at Iron Pagoda Park
Arriving and leaving Kaifeng
City buses (¥1-2) and taxis (¥5 base fare) cover most attractions. Bike-sharing (Hello Bike) recommended for short distances
Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport [Recommended]
1.5-hour transfer to Kaifeng via airport shuttle (¥80) or high-speed rail (Zhengzhou to Kaifeng, ¥25, 30 mins)
Kaifeng Railway Station
Major junction on the Zhengzhou-Xi'an high-speed rail line. Taxis to city center cost ¥20-30 (15 mins)
Where to stay in Kaifeng: Best Neighborhood
Gulou Square District
Historic area near Drum Tower with easy access to traditional hutongs and night markets
Songcheng Road Area
Modern business district with luxury hotels and proximity to Song Dynasty themed parks
Top Things to do in Kaifeng
Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden
A living history museum recreating 12th-century daily life through interactive performances and architecture
Dragon Pavilion
Imperial palace ruins crowned with a panoramic viewing platform overlooking the ancient city
Iron Pagoda Park
1,000-year-old glazed stupa known as 'Kaifeng's Eiffel Tower' surrounded by traditional Chinese gardens
Tips
Purchase a combo ticket (¥180) for multiple attractions to save 30%
What to eat: Kaifeng Food Guide
Recommended Restaurants
1. First Building Dumpling Restaurant
Famous for hand-pressed soup dumplings with 50+ years of history, located at Drum Tower Square
2. Baoxiang Restaurant
Specializing in Song Dynasty-era dishes with cultural performances, near Xiangguo Temple
Signature Dishes
1. Bianjing Roast Duck
Song Dynasty royal delicacy with crisp skin and plum sauce served at Xianxian Roast Duck
2. Xiaolongbao
Delicate pork dumplings in soup broth at Kangji Restaurant since 1920
3. Huanghe River Fish
Sticky rice wrapped fish dish at Yellow River Restaurant using traditional preparation methods
Kaifeng Itinerary 7 Days & 4 Days
DAY 1
Visit Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden:Walk through life-size Song Dynasty cityscape with street performers and historical reenactments
🥗Lunch at Kangji Restaurant:Try authentic Xiaolongbao with vinegar and ginger slices
Explore Songdu Imperial Street:Stroll along this replica Song Dynasty shopping street with traditional crafts and silk vendors
🍽️Dinner at Xianxian Roast Duck:Enjoy Beijing Duck preparation dating back to Northern Song Dynasty traditions
DAY 2
🍳Breakfast at local tea house:Enjoy traditional Kaifeng breakfast of millet porridge and sesame cake
Tour Bao Gong Temple:Explore the memorial complex honoring China's legendary upright official
🥗Lunch at Baoxiang Restaurant:Try Song Dynasty imperial dishes like Eight Treasure Duck
Visit Iron Pagoda Park:Admire the 'Iron' Pagoda's intricate琉璃brickwork and climb for city views
🍽️Dinner at Yellow River Restaurant:Sample local specialty sticky rice wrapped river fish
Kaifeng Travel FAQs
Welcome to China
Go2China
Your AI-powered China travel companion