Henan is where Chinese civilization began — home to the Shaolin Temple, the Longmen Grottoes, and the ancient capitals of Luoyang and Kaifeng. Four of the Eight Great Ancient Capitals of China are in Henan.
Top Sights in Henan
Longmen Grottoes (Luoyang)
UNESCO site with over 100,000 Buddhist statues carved into limestone cliffs along the Yi River.
Shaolin Temple
The birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Kung Fu — watch monks perform incredible martial arts demonstrations.
White Horse Temple
China's first Buddhist temple (68 AD) — where Buddhism first arrived from India.
Millennium City Park (Kaifeng)
A Song Dynasty-themed park recreating the famous scroll painting "Along the River During Qingming Festival".
Best Time to Visit
April–May and September–October. Spring for Luoyang Peony Festival. Summers are hot, winters cold with occasional snow.
Transportation
High-speed trains connect Zhengzhou-Luoyang-Kaifeng (30 min each). Luoyang and Zhengzhou have airports.
Henan Cuisine
Luoyang Water Banquet (24 courses), Kaifeng Soup Dumplings, Huimian (braised noodles), Spicy Soup (Hu La Tang).
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