https://ae.trip.com/moments/detail/kaifeng-165-131017510
Matthew GonzalezUnited States

First Time in Kaifeng? Just Copy This Travel Guide

"Qi trees and rosy clouds adorn the Five Phoenix Tower, Yimen has been an imperial city since ancient times." Kaifeng, an ancient capital with a thousand years of history, is like a thick history book with every page filled with stories. April, with its spring breeze through willows🌿 and blooming flowers🌸, is the perfect time to head to Kaifeng for an exciting 48-hour journey. 📍Day 1: Stroll Through Ancient Ruins, Savor Historical Changes 1️⃣ Millennium City Park Stepping into Millennium City Park feels like traveling back to the prosperous Northern Song Dynasty. In April's warm sunshine, the park's pavilions, towers, and bridges are built according to the "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" painting, exuding ancient charm. Walking around, staff in period costumes bustle about, recreating the prosperity of ancient Bianjing: crowded taverns and teahouses, amazing street performers, and vendors calling out their wares😃. Take a boat ride on the Bian River, with sparkling waters and willows swaying on both banks, as if you're inside the painting. 📸Photo Tips: Stand on Rainbow Bridge with the Bian River, boats, and ancient buildings as backdrop. Wear elegant Song Dynasty costume, hold a folding fan, and pose like ancient people enjoying spring scenery. Capture these historical moments with a serene expression😃. Or sit on a riverside stone bench with flowing water and spring flowers in the background, smile at the camera for a shot full of life and ancient charm. 2️⃣ Kaifeng Prefecture Next to Millennium City Park stands the solemn Kaifeng Prefecture. With red walls and green tiles, the government office displays the plaque "Justice as Clear as a Mirror." Inside, you can imagine Judge Bao delivering fair judgments. Live performances throughout the grounds recreate historical scenes, inspiring respect for incorruptible officials like Bao Zheng and ancient legal culture. 3️⃣ Drum Tower Night Market (Evening) The Drum Tower Night Market comes alive in the evening. Here you'll find Kaifeng's special delicacies, with tantalizing aromas of soup dumplings and stir-fried bean jelly. Sit at a time-honored food stall, bite into a soup dumpling to release the savory broth, then try the hot stir-fried bean jelly - smooth and chewy, every bite filled with Kaifeng's flavors😋. Browse while eating, pick up some Song Dynasty-themed souvenirs, and experience the city's vibrant atmosphere. 📍Day 2: Explore Lakes and Mountains, Enjoy Spring's Energy 1️⃣ Dragon Pavilion Park Head to Dragon Pavilion Park in the morning. In April, the lake waters are emerald green, surrounded by flowers. Walk along the lakeside under swaying willows, see the magnificent Dragon Pavilion reflected in the water like a fairyland. Climb the pavilion for a panoramic view of Kaifeng, with the Iron Pagoda and Fan Tower visible in the distance, experiencing the blend of history and nature. 📸Photo Tips: In the square before the Dragon Pavilion, with the majestic pavilion and blooming flowers as backdrop, wear casual sportswear and make a heart shape with your hands for a fun moment; or stand by the lake with clear waters and ancient buildings in the background, spread your arms to capture an embrace with nature, showing vitality and wonder at the beautiful scenery. 2️⃣ Iron Pagoda Park (Special Spring Beauty) After Dragon Pavilion Park, visit Iron Pagoda Park. In April, the park is full of green trees, with the Iron Pagoda soaring into the clouds, standing firm despite centuries of weathering. Up close, you can see the exquisite craftsmanship, with intricate patterns on the glazed bricks. Under spring sunshine, the pagoda creates a unique scene against the fresh greenery. 3️⃣ Kaifeng City Center (Dinner) Return to city center in the evening. With bright lights everywhere, head to Xisi Night Market or other food streets filled with more delicacies like almond tea and carp with flour. Find a popular stall, enjoy the food, and reminisce about your Kaifeng journey while savoring these flavors, perfectly concluding your 48 hours😃. 🏨【Accommodation Recommendations】 Stay in Longting or Gulou District, close to Millennium City Park and Drum Tower Night Market for convenient travel and constant immersion in the ancient city's charm. Various accommodation options available, from characteristic guesthouses to comfortable hotels, meeting different needs. 🚗【Transportation Tips】 Kaifeng is easily accessible by high-speed rail or bus from nearby cities. Within the city, buses and taxis make reaching attractions convenient; sightseeing vehicles and boats available within scenic areas. 💬【Final Thoughts】 April in Kaifeng offers profound historical culture, charming natural scenery, and mouthwatering cuisine. Step into this city humming a tune, and these 48 hours will surely enchant you. Come start your journey to explore the ancient charm of Bianjing!
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*Created by local travelers and translated by AI.
Posted: Apr 10, 2025
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