Overview
Kaifeng is a prefecture-level city in central Henan Province, situated on the southern bank of the Yellow River. It served as the imperial capital during the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127 CE), a period widely regarded as one of the high points of Chinese urban civilisation. The famous painted scroll Along the River During the Qingming Festival — one of the most studied artworks in Chinese history — depicts the city's commercial bustle during that era.
Despite repeated flooding over the centuries, the city retains a rich layer of historical sites, traditional streetscapes and a distinctive local food culture. It is also historically significant as the home of one of China's oldest Jewish communities, the Kaifeng Jews, whose presence dates back roughly a thousand years.
Kaifeng is smaller and less internationally visited than Xi'an or Luoyang, which means crowds are lighter and the atmosphere more local. Travellers looking for authentic Song-era history without the tourist polish of larger heritage cities will find it rewarding.
Before You Go
Visas
Most international visitors require a visa to enter China. Visa rules, exemption lists and permitted durations change periodically. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section and consult the official Chinese immigration authority or your nearest Chinese embassy or consulate well in advance of travel.
Health
No specific vaccinations are mandated for entry into China from most countries, but routine immunisations should be up to date. Tap water in Kaifeng is not considered safe to drink; bottled or boiled water is the norm. Pharmacies are available throughout the city.
Connectivity
China's internet filtering means many commonly used international apps and websites are inaccessible without a VPN. Consider researching and setting up a VPN before you arrive in China, as downloading one once inside the country can be difficult. Local navigation apps such as Baidu Maps and ride-hailing apps such as Didi are useful and work without a VPN.
Payment
Cash is still accepted widely, but mobile payment platforms (Alipay and WeChat Pay) dominate in Kaifeng. International visitors can now link some foreign cards to Alipay — verify current options before departure. ATMs that accept foreign cards exist but are not ubiquitous; withdraw cash in a larger city if uncertain.
Getting There
By Air
Kaifeng does not have a major commercial airport. The nearest well-served airport is Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO), located roughly 60–70 km west of the city. Zhengzhou has flights from major Chinese cities and a number of international destinations. From the airport, travellers can reach Kaifeng by high-speed rail (via Zhengzhou East station) or by road.
By High-Speed Rail
Kaifeng North station is served by high-speed rail on the Xuzhou–Lanzhou corridor, connecting the city to Zhengzhou in under 30 minutes and to cities such as Xi'an, Zhengzhou and further east. The conventional Kaifeng railway station also handles slower regional trains. Verify current schedules and book tickets on the official 12306 platform or through a registered agent.
By Road
Long-distance buses connect Kaifeng to Zhengzhou, Luoyang and other Henan cities. Journey times and operator details should be confirmed locally or through Henan's intercity bus network.
Getting Around
Kaifeng's historic core is compact enough for walking, particularly around Millennium City Park and the old city lanes. This is one of the city's practical advantages over larger Chinese destinations.
Local buses cover most of the city, though route information is primarily in Chinese. The Didi app (China's dominant ride-hailing platform) functions in Kaifeng and is a practical option for longer journeys or when carrying luggage. Registered taxis are also available; confirm that the meter is running or agree a fare before setting off.
Electric tricycle taxis (known locally as san lun che) operate in some areas and offer a low-cost short-hop option, though fares should be agreed in advance. Bicycles and e-bike rentals are available through some guesthouses and from docking stations around the city.
Things to See & Do
Millennium City Park (清明上河园)
This large theme park recreates the Northern Song Dynasty streetscape depicted in the Qingming scroll. It features costumed performances, period architecture and artisan demonstrations. Admission fees and opening hours apply — verify on the official park site or at the gate.
Iron Pagoda (铁塔)
Built in 1049 CE during the Song Dynasty, the Iron Pagoda is not actually iron — its name comes from the dark glazed tiles that give it a metallic sheen. It stands 13 storeys and roughly 55 metres tall and is one of the city's most recognisable landmarks.
Po Pagoda (繁塔)
Older than the Iron Pagoda and substantially squat in comparison, the Po Pagoda dates to 977 CE and features distinctive Buddhist brick carvings across its exterior. The surrounding garden is a pleasant spot.
Xiangguo Monastery (大相国寺)
Originally founded in 555 CE, repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt, Xiangguo Monastery is an active Buddhist site with notable architecture and a carved rotunda housing a four-faced Guanyin statue. Hours and admission vary; verify locally.
Kaifeng Jewish History Memorial Centre
The small museum and related sites document the remarkable history of the Kaifeng Jewish community, which largely assimilated over centuries. It is modest in scale but historically significant. Access and opening status should be confirmed before visiting.
Old City Lanes and Night Market
Kaifeng's most atmospheric evening experience is its night market, centred around Gulou (Drum Tower) Square. Hawker stalls, local snacks and a lively crowd make it a practical window into everyday city life. The market is informal and conditions change seasonally.
Food & Drink
Kaifeng has a distinctive culinary identity within Henan Province. The city is particularly known for its street food and night-market culture, which is considered among the liveliest in central China.
Things to Try
- Tang Bao (汤包) — soup-filled steamed buns; Kaifeng's version is locally famous and worth seeking out
- Five-spice roasted melon seeds — a local snack sold from street stalls
- Fried spicy skewers and grilled meats — common at night market stalls
- Mung bean paste cakes (绿豆糕) — a traditional sweet associated with the city
- Carp dishes — given proximity to the Yellow River, freshwater fish appear frequently on menus
Most restaurants around the historic core post picture menus or have staff accustomed to pointing at dishes. Vegetarian options exist but may be limited in smaller local eateries — clarify your requirements. Alcohol is widely available; Henan produces its own baijiu spirits as well as local beers.
Shopping
Shopping in Kaifeng is most interesting for traditional crafts rather than modern retail. Look for:
- Song brocade and embroidery — textile traditions associated with the imperial Song period
- Wooden combs and lacquerware — sold in craft shops near major tourist sites
- Calligraphy supplies and rubbings — shops near heritage sites often sell ink rubbings taken from stone carvings
- Night market goods — snacks, dried goods and casual souvenirs are abundant around Gulou Square
Bargaining is acceptable in informal markets but not in fixed-price shops. Keep purchases of antiques in perspective — authentic antiques require export permits, and most items sold as antiques in tourist areas are reproductions.
Practical Information
Emergency Numbers
China's standard emergency numbers are: Police 110, Ambulance 120, Fire 119. Carry your accommodation address written in Chinese characters in case you need to communicate your location.
Medical Care
Kaifeng has public hospitals. For serious medical issues, Zhengzhou, roughly an hour away, has larger tertiary hospitals. Comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation is strongly recommended.
Communication
Very little English signage exists outside major tourist sites. A translation app (downloaded for offline use before arrival) is a practical tool. Learning a handful of Mandarin phrases or carrying a phrasebook is advisable.
SIM Cards
Chinese SIM cards from operators such as China Mobile, China Unicom or China Telecom require passport registration. They can be purchased at the operator's stores or at airports. Note that a Chinese SIM does not bypass the country's internet filtering.
Safety
Kaifeng is generally considered a low-risk destination for travellers. Petty theft exists, as in any city, and standard precautions apply: keep valuables out of sight, use inside pockets in crowded market areas, and do not leave bags unattended.
Traffic behaviour can be unpredictable — electric scooters and e-bikes often operate silently and may not yield to pedestrians even at crossings. Stay alert when walking near roads.
The Yellow River, while not directly in the city, occasionally causes flooding in the broader region during heavy summer rainfall. Check weather and local advisories if visiting between June and August.
Maintain awareness of local regulations around photography at sensitive sites (military, government buildings). As in all of China, be respectful and measured in public political discussion.
Local Culture & Etiquette
Kaifeng holds deep significance in Chinese historical memory as the apex of Song Dynasty cosmopolitan life. Locals take visible pride in this heritage, and visitors who show curiosity and respect for it are generally received warmly.
The city has a notable Muslim Hui community concentrated in certain districts, where mosques, halal restaurants and a distinct neighbourhood character are present. This community has deep roots in the city and adds a layer of cultural diversity worth appreciating respectfully.
As an active Buddhist site, Xiangguo Monastery has its own codes of behaviour — dress modestly, speak quietly and do not photograph worshippers without clear consent.
Tipping is not a standard practice in Kaifeng or in China generally and may occasionally cause confusion. Graciousness and patience in navigating the language gap are more universally valued than monetary gestures.
