Things to do in Dancheng
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Top 10 attractions in Dancheng
Taihao Fuxiling Mausoleum Cultural Tourism Area
Taihao Fuxiling Cultural Tourism Area is located in Huaiyang District, Zhoukou City, Henan Province. It is a national AAAAA-level scenic spot. It consists of two core areas, Taihao Tomb and Longhu Scenic Area, with a total area of about 5 square kilometers. Taihao Mausoleum is a large mausoleum built to worship Taihao Fuxi, the "head of the Three Emperors". First built in the Spring and Autumn Period, added in the Tang and Song Dynasties, and completed in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, it is a rare large-scale palace-style ancient building complex that integrates mausoleums and temples. It is an isolated example of the palace-style ancient architectural complex among Chinese imperial mausoleums and temples. It is an important manifestation of ancestral culture and a specimen for the study of creation culture and Yixue culture. On the first and fifteenth day of every lunar month, especially between February 2 and March 3 of the lunar calendar, millions of people from all over the world flock here to search for their roots and pay homage to their ancestors. There is also a pruning park in the mausoleum area featuring the art of pine and cypress sculptures. There are more than 200 kinds of pine and cypress shapes in the park, which is praised as a "wonder in the world" by tourists and garden experts at home and abroad. The unique shapes, variety and scale of pine and cypress prunings are rare in the country. Longhu is a national wetland park, a national water conservancy scenic spot, an inland freshwater lake surrounding the city, and a natural ecological lake. It is known as the "Pearl of the Central Plains" and the "Inland Wonder". There are many national key protected bird species resting and overwintering here. The scenery of Longhu Lake is beautiful, with flowers in spring and lotus in summer, cattails in autumn and snow in winter. It is suitable to visit in all seasons. At the same time, lakeside trails, bird watching platforms, lotus gardens, waterfront squares, water Cruise, water bicycles and other projects have been built to meet the needs of tourists for water recreation. From July to September every year, tens of thousands of tourists come here This is a lotus reward.Zhoukou · 27.8 km from Dancheng
Longmen Grottoes
One of the four major grottoes of China and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Longmen Grottoes are a trove of 1000 years of Buddhist art treasures. Bounded by the Yi River, the caverns are divided into two sections at East Hill and West Hill. The caverns at East Hill contain mostly Tang dynasty (618-907) works, while the caverns at West Hill were cut out during the Northern, Sui, and Tang dynasties and contain the carvings that are most representative of the site. The Buddha and bodhisattva sculptures that inhabit the caverns are carved into an endless variety of poses and expressions of mercy and kindness, while the caves themselves lend a stately and dignified atmosphere. The artistry of these sculptures is truly a priceless inheritance of Buddhist art.China · Luoyang
Millennium City Park
Millennium City Park is located by the Longting Lake in Kaifeng, a large-scale historical and cultural theme park that faithfully recreates the Northern Song Dynasty's capital based on the famous painting "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" by artist Zhang Zeduan, following the original layout at a 1:1 scale. The park is divided into two sections by the Shuangting Bridge: the southern area recreates the bustling urban life of Bianjing, with taverns, teahouses, pawnshops, and artisan workshops lining the streets, where peddlers with shoulder poles and shouting shop assistants move about; while the northern area features imperial gardens, with lakeside halls and quadrangular courtyards standing by the water. Staff and vendors throughout the park wear Song-style attire, accompanied by ancient music and the rhythmic sounds of bells and drums, creating the illusion of "stepping into a painting and traveling back a thousand years in a single day." The architecture here offers visually striking highlights: the Rainbow Bridge spanning the Bian River replicates the famous bridge from ancient paintings, arching like a rainbow—watching grain barges pass beneath recreates the painting's ambiance. Fuyun Pavilion towers above all other structures with its crimson facade and golden-roofed eaves, offering panoramic garden views. The reconstructed Shangshan Gate mirrors Kaifeng's Northern Song dynasty city gates, standing majestic with resplendent paintings as the garden's most imposing structure. Waterside pavilions like Shuixin Xie, Double Pavilion Bridge, and Nine Dragons Bridge dot the emerald waters in picturesque harmony. The daytime highlight is the scattered live performances throughout the park: "Judge Bao inspecting the Bian River grain transport" unfolds on the water by Rainbow Bridge, "Squire Wang's daughter seeking a husband" brings the embroidered ball tossing matchmaking to the streets, and "Yue Fei unhorsing Prince Xiao Liang" stirs up dust with galloping hooves in the drill ground. Folk performances like cockfighting, stilt walking, cuju (ancient football), and pan drumming are interspersed throughout. Families with children can visit Fun Garden and Great Song Games to try archery, dart throwing, rope climbing, and hoop diving—experiencing every Song dynasty game from a thousand years ago—or dress in period costumes at Square Courtyard to take mock imperial exams. Street-side workshops showcase folk crafts like Bian embroidery, Zhuxian Town woodblock prints, official kiln porcelain, and dough figurines, where visitors can watch artisans at work. The park takes on a different face after nightfall: red lanterns light up one after another, and the streets are ablaze with lights, making it seem like a completely different place from daytime. The large-scale water show "Northern Song Dynasty: Splendid Dreams of Dongjing" is performed on Jinglong Lake. The entire show is connected by eight classic Song Dynasty poems and a scroll of "Along the River During the Qingming Festival," transporting the audience back to Dongjing of the Northern Song Dynasty a thousand years ago. The performance lasts approx. 70 minutes, and many travelers specifically reserve their itinerary for the evening to wait for this show. After the performance, you might as well climb the Shangshan Gate tower to overlook the park scenery and the night view of Kaifeng under the lights. Dining in the park is also convenient: the snack street and night market around the Dongjing food area gather Kaifeng snacks like soup dumplings and mutton pancake, perfect for eating while strolling; for a proper sit-down meal, head to Sunyang Restaurant, a recreation of the "main shop" depicted in paintings, and try traditional Henan dishes such as soup dumplings and carp with noodles.China · Kaifeng
Song Du Huangcheng Cultural Tourism Resort
Song Du Huangcheng Cultural Tourism Resort is located in the northern part of the old city of Kaifeng, precisely on the site of the imperial palace of the Northern Song Dynasty's Dongjing city. The millennium-old central axis of Kaifeng runs through this area, making it the core zone of the royal culture of the Song Dynasty. Here, you can find the Song-style imperial architecture of the Longting attraction, the tales of the Yang Family Generals at Tianbo Yang's residence, and the calligraphic steles of Han Yuan Stele Forest. The Shuanglong Lane historical and cultural block, 960 Cultural and Creative Park, and Qisheng Corner have transformed old streets and courtyards into Song-style blocks perfect for leisurely exploration. The resort also connects a series of Song culture attractions: Wansui Mountain Great Song Martial Arts City stages year-round martial arts live shows and intangible cultural heritage iron fireworks, while historic sites like the Iron Pagoda, Kaifeng city wall, Zhouqiao and Bian River ruins, Shanshangan Guild Hall, Yanqing Taoist Temple, and Fan Pagoda are scattered across the old city, along with niche spots like the underground wartime grain storage. These places are hard to cover in one day, so we recommend focusing on two or three key sites. After dark, a different experience awaits as the attractions light up in unison. Boarding a painted pleasure boat on the Great Song Imperial River to watch the illuminated pavilions and towers sway with the rippling water is a popular nightlife option here.China · Kaifeng
Wansuishan Martial Arts City
Wansui Mountain Martial Arts City is located in the Wansui Mountain tourist area in the northwest of Kaifeng city. It is a large tourist area built with the background of Song Dynasty culture and martial arts culture. There are antique and charming Song Dynasty garden streets and alleys in the scenic area. There are wonderful martial arts and ancient costume performances all year round, as well as rich entertainment facilities. It is a good place for relaxation and entertainment Souvenir Kaifeng, Zhengzhou and other places. When visiting the Wansui Mountain Martial Arts City, the first thing you feel is the beautiful scenery of the scenic spot. The entire martial arts city has created the atmosphere of the Song Dynasty, including the Wansui Temple, which reproduces the glory of the thousand-year-old ancient temple in the Song Dynasty, the Dragon Altar that embodies the spirit of Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism, the intact ancient city wall ruins of the Ming and Qing Dynasties that have been preserved in the world, and one of the largest man-made streams and waterfalls in China. Many landscapes such as "Jiulong Waterfall" are very eye-catching. What's rare is that there is also a very large forest and green space in the scenic area, which is quiet and quiet. There are flowers in bloom every suitable season, which is very suitable for photography. After that, tourists will notice the unique martial arts features in the scenic spot. There are 36 martial arts-themed plays performed here year round (about 60 per day), such as "Cross Slope", "Wu Song Drunk Beats Chiang Menshen", "Wild Boar Forest" and so on. The themed drama is quite exciting and must not be missed when you come here; and interactive performances such as "Martial Arts Film and Television Experience Hall", "Wu Zhuangyuan" and "Li Kui's Case" can also allow tourists to participate in martial arts stories, which is full of fun. There are also many elements of martial arts in the architectural design of the scenic spot, such as the martial arts road with large weapons such as the "Yitian Sword" and the "Bawang Sword", the "Knight's Picture" of the Song Dynasty Martial Arts Hall, the "Sword Altar" on the cross slope, and the "Sword Altar" on the cross slope. Xianzhuang, Wulin venue and other places are unique. In addition, during the Spring Festival every year, Wansui Mountain holds a large-scale temple fair, with grand performances, rich snacks, dazzling handicrafts and unique entertainment activities. The atmosphere is warm and it has become one of the most popular temple fairs in the Central Plains. one.China · Kaifeng
Henan Museum
Located in the city of Zhengzhou, Henan Museum has a rich collection of exhibits displaying Henan's 5,000-year history and offering a window into traditional Henanese culture. The museum has eight exhibition halls that can be visited in chronological order. The collection includes several national treasures, including the lotus crane vase, cloud copper chest, Saohao vase, Jiahu bone flute, Wushu copper plate and more. Be sure to visit them all.China · Zhengzhou
Eight Spring Gap
Baquan Gorge is in Qiaoshang Town, Huguan County, Changzhi City. It is a high-quality scenic spot that elicits magnificent and rich connotations of the essence of the natural beauty of Taihang Mountain. There are springs at the back of the gorge, as well as two springs in the middle. Altogether, it there are eight springs, giving it name Baquanxia (8 springs).China · Huguan
Kaifeng Fu (Kaifeng Palace)
During the Northern Song dynasty, Kaifeng Fu (Kaifeng Palace) was where Bao Zheng, the renowned "Justice Bao," served as the prefect. The original Kaifeng Fu of the Song dynasty was long destroyed by floods. What travelers see today is a recently reconstructed artificial ancient-style attraction. The gate of Kaifeng Fu (Kaifeng Palace) faces south, and travelers enter the attraction from here to begin their visit. The attraction is centered on buildings such as the main hall, conference hall, and Meihua hall, flanked by Kaifeng Fu-Tianqing temple, Mingli courtyard, Kaifeng Fu-Qianlong palace, Qingxin tower,Prison, Yingwu Tower, Yinbin Hall, and other halls of various sizes. Each hall is relatively small in scale. Travelers can follow the attraction map to visit the attractions along the central axis before exploring some attractions on both sides. Travelers can view the interior scenes of a Northern Song government office in the main hall and council chamber along the central axis. In the plum blossom hall in the northern part of the attraction, there are recreated scenes of Judge Bao adjudicating cases while "sitting southward in the yamen," complete with wax figures. West of the main gate, the view includes a prison office, Kaifeng Fu (Kaifeng Palace)-prison temple, death row cells, and gendered prison cells—all arranged with sculptures, torture devices, and scenes reflecting the penal administration of the Northern Song period. In the Qianlong hall and Qingxin tower east of the central axis, travelers can see statues of emperors Taizong, Zhenzong, and Qinzong of the Song dynasty, along with biographical introductions of all Kaifeng magistrates from the Northern Song era. Travelers can also watch many historical reenactment performances when visiting the attraction, such as "Yamen opening ceremony" and "Judge Bao presiding over a case".China · Kaifeng
Songshan Shaolin Scenic Area
It is said that "all martial arts originate fromShaolinNot only Chinese people who grew up deeply influenced by Shaolin kung fu, but also many international friends visiting Henan will go to see Shaolin temple. It is not only a sacred place for martial arts worldwide, but also the ancestral temple of Zen Buddhism. Striking some classic martial arts poses for photos at Shaolin temple makes the swords and shadows of the martial world seem to flash before your eyes. AboutShaolin TempleTwo keywords 1. The founder of Zen Buddhism The Shaolin Temple is a sacred Buddhist site in China and the ancestral temple of Chan Buddhism. In 527 AD, the renowned Indian monk Bodhidharma (known as the founder of Zen) traveled by sea to southern China, crossed the Yangtze River northward into the Central Plains, and arrived at Shaolin. He meditated and taught dharma in the mountains behind the Shaolin Temple, first advocating the Chan teaching of "mind-to-mind transmission," thereby establishing the temple's revered status as the ancestral home of Chan Buddhism. Nowadays, many visitors come to Shaolin Temple to pray for blessings and peace. The origin of martial arts After the "Thirteen monks with staffs rescued Li Shimin" incident in the early Tang Dynasty, Shaolin Temple became renowned worldwide for its exquisite "Shaolin Kung Fu," and since thenShaolinMonks practicing martial arts has become a common tradition passed down through generations. The Shaolin Temple is the birthplace of Shaolin kung fu, andShaolinThe pai school is a martial arts sect with a wide influence, long history, and numerous boxing styles in the wulin (martial arts world). Since ancient times, it has been regarded as "the foremost martial arts sect in the world" and the supreme authority of martial arts by Chinese people. The Shaolin Temple scenic area - pagoda forest is the burial ground of Shaolin Temple's successive abbots, serene and solemn. You might even catch glimpses of the movie "Shaolin Temple" here. Travel tips What to do? How long to stay? Recommended self-guided tour activities: Half-day tour:Shaolin Temple- Pagoda forest - Chuzu nunnery - Damo cave - Songshan Shaolin scenic area -Songshan Shaolin scenic area - Shaolin temple martial arts hallPerformance The Shaolin Temple complex mainly consists of three parts: the Changzhu Yuan Pagoda Forest, the Chuzu Nunnery, and the Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave. Most visitors traveling to Shaolin Temple from Luoyang or Zhengzhou choose this route. The layout of Shaolin Temple is typical of Han Chinese Buddhist temples, featuring central axis symmetry. After entering the mountain gate, you can walk straight ahead. The temple is not large, and the visit can be completed within an hour. The Shaolin Temple scenic area - pagoda forest is located approx. 400 m west of Shaolin Temple, serving as the burial ground for the temple's eminent monks throughout history. As the Buddhist saying goes: "Saving one life is better than building a seven-story pagoda." Here, you can learn about the life stories of Shaolin Temple's eminent monks across different dynasties. The Chuzu Temple and Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave are also near the Shaolin Temple, accessible by walking. The Chuzu Temple was built by people of the Song Dynasty to commemorate Bodhidharma's wall-gazing meditation, while the Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave is the very place where Patriarch Bodhidharma meditated facing a wall for nine years. 1-day tour:Shaolin Temple-Tallinn-Sanhuangzhai In the morning, follow the half-day tour itinerary to visit Shaolin Temple first, then proceed to the Shaolin Temple attraction - Pagoda Forest. The location is approx. 5 min walking distance from the Shaolin Temple attraction - Pagoda Forest.Shaolin cablewayAfter taking the cable car to Sanhuangzhai station, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the destination on foot.Sanhuangzhai scenic areaPortal. ActivitiesSanhuangzhai scenic areaIt takes at least 3-4 hours to explore the attraction, which features many unique geological views. The Sanhuangzhai cliffside plank walk is a must-see. Walking along the cliffside path with towering cliffs on one side and a sheer drop on the other is both a physical and mental challenge. 2-day tour:Shaolin Temple- Songyang scenic area - Zhongyue scenic area Shaolin Temple andSongyang academy, Mount SongLocated in Dengfeng, visitors with ample time can purchase a combo ticket for all three sites and explore them over two days. On the first day, visitShaolin scenic areaIn the evening, watch the live performance of "Zen Shaolin Music Ceremony", and the next day, head to Songyang, which is far from downtown Dengfeng.Zhongyue scenic area. Where can I see authentic Shaolin kung fu? Nowadays, it is difficult for ordinary visitors to witness the martial arts training of Shaolin monks at Shaolin temple. However, visitors can use the Shaolin temple combo ticket to watch the Shaolin kung fu performance at the Shaolin martial arts hall in Songshan Shaolin scenic area, approx. 700 m east of Shaolin temple. Performance time: The performance time at Songshan Shaolin scenic area - Shaolin temple martial arts hall is subject to the on-site announcement. Each performance lasts 30 minutes. The cost is included in the admission ticket. Where is a good place to stay?There are some farmhouse inns and guesthouses around Shaolin Temple, but the conditions are average. If you're not in a hurry, it's not recommended to stay here. If you need to stay overnight, Dengfeng city center is a good choice, as it offers convenient access to the three major attractions of Songshan Mountain. Shaolin TempleIs vegetarian food available?Since you're visiting Shaolin Temple, don't miss the vegetarian cuisine. The vegetarian restaurant inside Shaolin Temple is called "Huanxidi" and is worth trying. Shaolin story The most stubborn holdout in history: When it comes to stubborn holdouts, they didn't just appear in modern times. As early as the Tang dynasty, the Shaolin Temple emerged as such a case. Emperor Li Yuan of Tang issued an order for its demolition but failed. When Li Shimin came to power, not only was the Shaolin Temple spared from punishment, but it also received generous rewards. Compared to today's holdouts, the Shaolin Temple can be called the most legendary stubborn holdout in history. The origin of the matter was an imperial edict issued by Li Yuan, ordering the demolition of all temples within Henan province, including the Shaolin Temple. After receiving the imperial decree, hundreds of monks at Shaolin Temple refused to comply, standing united and resolute in collective defiance. Li Yuan had no choice, as the Tang dynasty was newly established and could not afford to gain a reputation for cruelty. He tacitly allowed the temple's "retention" but revoked the 4,000 acres of temple land previously granted by the Prince of Qin. Later, when Li Shimin became emperor, he granted Shaolin Temple an additional 4,000 mu of land, permitted the temple to train monk soldiers, lift the prohibition against killing, and consume alcohol and meat. Inside the temple, there is a stele titled "Emperor Taizong of Tang's decree to the Shaolin Temple abbot," which records this historical event. You may want to see it when visiting the Shaolin Temple.China · Dengfeng
Qufu's Temple and Cemetery of Confucius and Kong Family Mansion
The Temple of Confucius, Kong Family Mansion, and Cemetery of Confucius represent holy land memorialized throughout the history of China. The Temple of Confucius was built from the remains of Confucius's old residence and is a famous place for making offerings to the scholar. The scale of the Kong Family Mansion is second in China only to the Forbidden City, and it served for hundreds of years as the long-term residence of Confucius's descendants. The Cemetery of Confucius is the burial site of Confucius and his descendants.China · Qufu
Experiences you can't miss in Dancheng
Featured Day tours in Dancheng
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Free things to do in Dancheng
Taihao Fuxiling Mausoleum Cultural Tourism Area
Zhoukou · 27.8 km from DanchengLongmen Grottoes
China · LuoyangImmediate access, Book now for today, Cancel anytimeMillennium City Park
China · KaifengImmediate access, Book now for today, Cancel anytimeSong Du Huangcheng Cultural Tourism Resort
China · KaifengWansuishan Martial Arts City
China · KaifengImmediate access, Book now for today, Cancel anytime
Unique Henan Land of Dramas
China · ZhongmuBook now for tomorrowHenan Museum
China · ZhengzhouEight Spring Gap
China · HuguanKaifeng Fu (Kaifeng Palace)
China · KaifengImmediate access, Book now for today, Cancel anytimeSongshan Shaolin Scenic Area
China · DengfengBook now for tomorrow, Cancel anytime
What travelers say about Dancheng
M43***4324 August 2026
5.0
The environment inside is excellent, and there's even a unique garden called Duxiu Garden. The restrooms are also very clean. Offering incense at Taihao Mausoleum is free, which is better than many other tourist attractions, some of which charge exorbitant prices for incense.
Taihao Fuxiling Mausoleum Cultural Tourism Area
Kieran W22 October 2026
5.0
You definitely need at least half a day for this place. It’s amazing! So much to see and everything is fascinating. Wonderful experience!
Longmen Grottoes
盼望明天19 October 2026
5.0
Pavilions stand by the water, green trees surround the streets, and houses stretch endlessly. Without excessive hustle and bustle, it is a vivid scene of bustling city life unfolding from the scroll of "Along the River During the Qingming Festival" right before our eyes, with the gentle smoke of cooking fires and the charm of ancient times.
Millennium City Park
M55***2018 August 2026
5.0
It's very worthwhile, but it's also very crowded, which might slightly detract from the overall experience. However, the people are incredibly welcoming, and there are many beautiful spots for taking photos. The food is also affordable and inexpensive, which kids enjoy. I'll definitely go back when it's less crowded.
Song Du Huangcheng Cultural Tourism Resort
楊小肥16 October 2026
5.0
It was really fun! Even though it was outside the National Day holiday, it was still quite crowded. The NPC interactions were great. The iron flower display is a must-see. The music and parade at night were especially exciting. It's a place I would definitely fly back to.
Wansuishan Martial Arts City
_We***2421 October 2026
5.0
A huge thank you to our guide today, Ms. Feng Ping. Her solid historical knowledge allowed her to vividly and clearly explain the historical stories behind the Shang and Zhou dynasties' ritual systems, diverse cultures, and the custom of "clinking cups and exchanging toasts." The entire three-hour tour was incredibly rich in content.
The overall logic was excellent. The opening provided a general overview of the museum, and the content flowed smoothly between the exhibition halls. Her pacing was superb, bringing the profound Central Plains civilization to life. I felt so fortunate to have met Ms. Feng Ping; she's a perfect museum guide in China!
Henan Museum
Anonymous user21 October 2026
5.0
The scenery was beautiful, truly deserving of its 5A scenic area rating. The all-inclusive ticket includes three attractions: Baquan Gorge, Qinglong Gorge, and Hongdou Gorge. Due to the cloudy and rainy afternoon, we didn't visit Hongdou Gorge, only Baquan Gorge and Qinglong Gorge. Route A is more reasonably designed and felt better than Route B, as there was no need to queue for the cable car. I plan to visit Hongdou Gorge again sometime.
Eight Spring Gap
Anonymous user19 October 2026
5.0
The architecture is magnificent. Climbing Qingxin Tower at sunset offers a panoramic view of Bao Gong Lake, which is incredibly photogenic (although my photography skills are quite limited). There weren't many people. Because of limited time, I didn't get to see many worthwhile places, watch any shows, or participate in any scripted tours, which is a real shame. I'll definitely make the most of it next time. Oh, and I actually found a miniature Fu Hao owl-shaped bronze vessel in a very dark room in the west wing of Gongkui Tower.
Kaifeng Fu (Kaifeng Palace)
Anonymous user19 October 2026
4.0
We took the Shaolin cable car up to Shuce Cliff, walked a little further, and then turned back after hearing that the Liantian Plank Road was still a long way off. We visited Shaolin Temple and the Pagoda Forest before leaving, saving our energy for Laojun Mountain the next day.
Songshan Shaolin Scenic Area
皮勒恩谢逖20 October 2026
5.0
The combined ticket for the Three Confucian Sites is valid for two days and includes the Temple of Confucius, the Confucius Mansion, and the Cemetery of Confucius—three World Heritage sites, making it highly valuable. The ancient architecture of the Temple of Confucius is magnificent, the dragon-carved stone pillars of the Dacheng Hall are truly awe-inspiring, and the ancient cypress trees and inscriptions are steeped in history. A guided tour is highly recommended; otherwise, it's easy to rush through the exhibits. It's suitable for study tours and for quietly immersing oneself in Confucian culture, making it well worth a special trip.
Qufu's Temple and Cemetery of Confucius and Kong Family Mansion
