A Local's Guide to Visiting Zhengzhou in April-May

Hey everyone! Let me tell you something - Zhengzhou is truly a hidden gem of a city with countless delicious foods and amazing places to explore! I've put together a detailed Zhengzhou city walk guide to help make your trip more enjoyable and satisfying! ### Itinerary - **Day 1**: We have a packed first day planned. Start your morning at Daguanyin Temple, where you'll find a peaceful atmosphere and majestic architecture. Every carving and Buddha statue seems to tell an ancient story, bringing instant tranquility to your mind. Next, visit Zhengzhou Aquarium, which is like a magical underwater world with colorful fish swimming all around you, plus delightful dolphin and seal shows that transport you to a fairytale setting. In the afternoon, explore Henan Museum, a national-level museum housing countless historical artifacts from ancient bronze wares to exquisite ceramics, showcasing the wisdom of our ancestors. End your day at Zhengzhou Zoo, where you can see adorable giant pandas, majestic lions and tigers, and other lovely animals - perfect for families with children. - **Day 2**: Begin at Zhengzhou Memory Oil Factory, which preserves many industrial-era relics and has been transformed into an artistic space with creative shops and art exhibitions - perfect for photos. Then head to Ruiguang Creative Factory, a creative park combining art, culture, and entertainment, featuring interesting studios, cafes, and restaurants where you can stroll and soak in the artistic atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit Erqi Memorial Tower, Zhengzhou's landmark built to commemorate the Beijing-Hankou Railway workers' strike. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city. Finally, explore Fumin Li, a place full of old Zhengzhou charm with local snacks and traditional architecture where you can taste local delicacies and experience old Zhengzhou's essence. - **Day 3**: Start at Financial Island, featuring unique architecture surrounded by sparkling lake waters - perfect for walks and photography. Next, visit London Bridge, modeled after London's Tower Bridge, offering a taste of British architecture. Then head to Zhengzhou Forest, an urban oasis with lush trees and fresh air - ideal for relaxation. End at the Big Corn Building, Zhengzhou's new landmark that's especially spectacular when lit up at night, surrounded by shopping malls and restaurants for dining and shopping. ### Packing Guide - **Documents**: Don't forget essential documents. Your ID card is mandatory for transportation and hotel check-in; bring your student ID for discounts at attractions; bank cards for transactions; and some cash for emergencies. - **Electronics**: Essential items include chargers and power banks to keep your phone charged for capturing memorable moments. Pack headphones for entertainment during travel. Don't forget your camera if you enjoy photography. - **Clothing**: Pack weather-appropriate clothing, including enough underwear and socks. Bring pajamas for comfortable sleep. Zhengzhou's weather can be unpredictable, so pack rain gear just in case. Comfortable walking shoes are crucial for city exploration. - **Toiletries**: Pack essentials like toothbrush, toothpaste, facial cleanser, and skincare products. Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash are convenient to carry. Don't forget sunscreen, especially in summer. Include towels and makeup to stay fresh and presentable. - **Medicine**: Prepare a basic medical kit with common medications like cold medicine and pain relievers in case of illness during your trip. ### Transportation Guide - **Air**: Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport is about 25km from downtown. Access options include subway, airport shuttle buses, and taxis. The subway is convenient and offers city views; airport buses serve major downtown locations; taxis provide flexible door-to-door service. - **Train**: Zhengzhou Station and Zhengzhou East Station are the main railway stations. Zhengzhou Station is centrally located near shopping and dining. Zhengzhou East Station is a high-speed rail hub connecting to major cities nationwide. - **Long-distance Bus**: Multiple bus stations including Zhengzhou Central Station and Zhengzhou North Passenger Station offer inter-city services. - **Subway**: Zhengzhou's five subway lines cover major areas. Fares start at 2 yuan, based on distance. - **Bus**: Extensive bus network covers the city, with fares around 1-2 yuan. Many routes accept mobile payments. ### Food Guide - **Henan Cuisine Recommendations**: Don't miss Zhengzhou's signature dishes. Huimian noodles feature chewy noodles in rich broth with tender lamb. Hulatang soup, a cultural heritage dish, offers a spicy kick with gluten, noodles, and peanuts. Yellow River carp is a must-try local classic. - **Local Snacks**: Try Zhengzhou's diverse snacks like crispy Zhengzhou pancakes, soft Menbing, crispy You Mou Tou, meat-filled boxes, pan-fried buns, sweet rice cakes, and refreshing Liangpi noodles. - **Night Market Food**: Visit Jiankang Road Night Market for Korean-style cold noodles, various skewers, refreshing bean jelly, and snow flake dessert. Erqi Square Night Market offers soup dumplings, lamb skewers, and candied hawthorns. - **Desserts and Drinks**: Try traditional peanut cake and rich almond tea. - **Food Streets**: Explore Dehua Street for restaurants and street food, Agricultural Science Road Bar Street for dining and nightlife, and areas like Moli District, State Cotton Factory No.4, and Shunhe Road Food Street for local specialties. Save this guide, everyone! You're sure to have an unforgettable journey in Zhengzhou!