Zhengzhou Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Planning & General Vibe
Is Zhengzhou worth visiting? Yes, primarily as a base for the Shaolin Temple, Henan Museum, and nearby Luoyang.
What is the city known for? It’s the capital of Henan, a major “iPhone City” (Foxconn), and a cradle of Chinese civilization.
Is it a “tourist” city? Not in the way Kyoto or Paris is; it’s a bustling “Tier 2” Chinese metropolis.
When is the best time to visit? Spring (April–May) and Autumn (September–October) to avoid the humid summer heat and freezing winters.
How many days do I need? 2–3 days for the city and Shaolin Temple.
Is it safe? Extremely safe, even at night, though watch for pickpockets in crowded station areas.
Is English widely spoken? No. You’ll need translation apps (like Baidu or Apple Translate).
What is the “CBD” area? The Zhengdong New District, featuring futuristic architecture and a man-made lake.
Is Zhengzhou polluted? It can be, especially in winter. Check Air Quality Index (AQI) apps.
What is the “Big Corn” building? It’s the Millennium Royal Plaza (Greenland Plaza), a landmark hotel/office tower shaped like a corn cob.
Do I need a VPN? Yes, to access Google, Instagram, or WhatsApp.
Are people friendly? Generally very curious and helpful, though they may stare if you are in less-visited areas.
Is it expensive? Much cheaper than Shanghai or Beijing.
What is the local dialect? Henan-hua. Most people speak Mandarin, though with a distinct accent.
Can I use cash? It’s rare. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay before you arrive.
Is it a walkable city? Parts of the CBD are, but the city is massive; you’ll need the metro.
What is the Erqi Memorial Tower? A landmark twin-tower pagoda in the city center commemorating a 1923 strike.
Is Zhengzhou “dirty”? Some older areas near the station are gritty, but the new districts are spotless.
Can I visit for business? It’s a huge hub for logistics, tech, and manufacturing.
Should I stay in Zhengzhou or Luoyang? Zhengzhou has better transit links; Luoyang has more “ancient” charm.
Transportation & Logistics
How do I get from the airport to the city? Take the Metro Line 9 (Chengjiao Line) or the Airport Express train.
What are the main train stations? Zhengzhou Station (older, central) and Zhengzhou East (high-speed rail hub).
How is the metro system? Modern, clean, and has English signage.
Can I take a taxi? Yes, but Didi (the Chinese Uber) is easier for non-speakers.
How do I get to the Shaolin Temple? Take a bus from the Long-distance Bus Station near Zhengzhou Station, or a Didi (about 1.5–2 hours).
Is there a high-speed train to Beijing? Yes, it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.
Can I walk from Zhengzhou Station to the city center? It’s near Erqi Square, which is walkable.
How do I pay for the bus? You can scan a QR code via Alipay/WeChat or use small change.
Are there e-bikes? Yes, shared Meituan or HelloBike e-bikes are everywhere.
Is the traffic bad? Yes, rush hour is intense. Use the metro.
Can I fly internationally to Zhengzhou? Yes, Xinzheng (CGO) has many international connections.
Is there a train to Xi’an? Yes, high-speed trains take about 2 hours.
How do I get to Kaifeng? Intercity high-speed trains take only 20–30 minutes.
Can I rent a car? Not easily without a Chinese license.
Are trains crowded? High-speed trains require booking in advance, especially on weekends.
Is the airport far? About 30km from the CBD.
How do I find my platform at Zhengzhou East? Follow the “G” or “D” train signs; the station is massive but logical.
Is there a “Tourist Bus”? Yes, but they are often geared toward domestic groups.
Can I take a boat on the Yellow River? Yes, hovercraft tours are available at the Yellow River Scenic Area.
Is there luggage storage? Major train stations have “Left Luggage” (寄存) counters.
Food & Dining
What is the “must-try” dish? Hui Mian (Braised Noodles)—wide, hand-pulled noodles in a rich lamb broth.
What is Hu La Tang? A spicy, peppery “hot soup” usually eaten for breakfast.
Are there Western restaurants? Yes, mostly in the CBD and major malls (e.g., ZAX BBQ, Blue Frog).
Is the food spicy? Some is, but it’s more “savory/salty” compared to Sichuan’s numbing spice.
Can I find vegetarian food? Yes, especially at temples like Shaolin, but “pure” vegetarian restaurants are limited.
What is “Big Corn” dining? The Marriott in the Big Corn building has high-end dining with views.
Where are the night markets? Health Road (Jiankang Lu) is a popular one for snacks and cheap goods.
Is tap water safe? No. Always drink bottled or boiled water.
What is the local beer? Snow and Tsingtao are common; look for local craft spots in the CBD.
Are there coffee shops? Luckin Coffee and Starbucks are on every corner.
What is “Yellow River Carp”? A famous local delicacy, often served braised.
Can I find street food? Yes, look for Jianbing (crepes) and Yangrou Chuan (lamb skewers).
How do I order in restaurants? Most have QR codes on tables; scan with WeChat/Alipay to see pictures.
What is the price of a meal? A bowl of noodles is $2–$4; a nice dinner is $15–$25.
Is tipping expected? No, tipping is not practiced in China.
What is Daokou Roasted Chicken? A famous Henan style of chicken, often sold in gift boxes.
Are there supermarkets? Dennis and RT-Mart are the big local chains.
Can I find dairy products? Milk and yogurt are common; cheese is harder to find outside high-end malls.
What is breakfast like? Usually savory—steamed buns (Baozi), deep-fried dough (Youtiao), and soy milk.
Where is the best place for upscale dining? The Zhengdong New District (CBD) around the canal.
Attractions & Sightseeing
What is the Henan Museum? One of China’s best; famous for its pyramid shape and ancient bronzes.
Do I need to book the museum in advance? Yes, usually through their WeChat mini-program. It’s free but limited.
What is “Unique Henan · Land of Dramas”? A massive, immersive theater theme park that is highly rated.
Can I see Kung Fu at Shaolin? Yes, there are regular performances included in the ticket.
Is the Shaolin Temple authentic? It’s a rebuilt version of the original, but the Pagoda Forest is ancient and authentic.
What is Mount Song (Songshan)? One of the five sacred mountains of China, located near Shaolin.
Is there a cable car at Mount Song? Yes, to help you reach the higher peaks.
What is the Yellow River Scenic Area? A park with massive statues of the “Emperors” and views of the river.
Can I see the “Yellow” color of the river? Yes, it’s famous for its loess (silt) content.
What is the Zhengzhou Zoo like? It’s a standard city zoo; some find the enclosures small.
Is there a “Green Belt” in the city? Yes, the Renmin (People’s) Park is a great place to watch locals dance and play.
What is the Fuxi Mountain Grand Canyon? A scenic hiking area outside the city with glass bridges.
Can I visit the Shang Dynasty Ruins? Yes, parts of the 3,500-year-old city walls are still visible.
Is there a “Movie Town”? Yes, Jianye Movie Town is a 1930s-style film set theme park.
Are museums open on Mondays? Most are closed on Mondays.
Is there nightlife? Yes, mostly KTV bars and clubs in the Jinshui District.
What is the Fu Tower? A steel TV tower offering 360-degree views and a glass walkway.
Are there temples in the city? The City God Temple (Chenghuang Miao) is worth a quick visit.
Is it worth going to Anyang from here? Yes, for the Yin Ruins (UNESCO site), about 1.5 hours by train.
Can I visit a tea house? Yes, Henan has a rich tea culture; look for tea houses in the CBD.
Practical Tips & Miscellaneous
What should I wear? Casual is fine; wear comfortable shoes for the Shaolin Temple.
Do I need a passport to travel? Yes, you need it for trains, hotels, and most ticketed attractions.
How is the internet? Fast, but censored. Use a roaming SIM or VPN.
Are there public toilets? Yes, but they are mostly squat toilets; bring your own tissues.
Can I use a credit card? Only in 5-star hotels or luxury malls.
Is there a lot of walking? Yes, Chinese cities and attractions are massive.
How do I find a doctor? Ask your hotel for the nearest “International Clinic” or major hospital.
What is the “Hukou” system? Not relevant to travelers, but it’s a common topic of conversation regarding the city’s growth.
Can I take photos? Yes, except for military sites or inside certain museum galleries.
Is there a mall for shopping? The Grand Emporium (David Plaza) is the most famous for luxury.
What is the weather like in summer? Very hot and humid (often 35°C+).
Are there many expats? A small but tight-knit community, mostly teachers and engineers.
Can I buy a SIM card? Yes, at the airport or China Unicom/Mobile stores with your passport.
What is “Guanxi”? The Chinese concept of social networking/connections.
Are there mosquitoes? Yes, in the summer and near the river.
How do I say “Thank you”? “Xie xie” (Sheh-sheh).
Can I use Google Maps? It is inaccurate in China. Use Apple Maps or Amap (Gaode).
Is the city loud? Yes, it’s a typical Chinese city with construction and traffic noise.
Should I bring a gift for locals? Small tokens from your home country are appreciated if you are meeting friends.
What is the #1 tip for Zhengzhou? Get out of the city center to see the history (Shaolin/Yellow River), but stay in the CBD for comfort.