Is Kaifeng worth a dedicated visit, and what can be done in one day?

[Direct conclusion] 【Yes, especially if you like Song culture, night markets and a slow pace. Key points to keep in mind: 1. One day covers the core (Qingming Riverside Garden + Daxiangguo Temple + Lord Bao's Memorial Temple); two days adds the Iron Pagoda and a deep night-market dive.】 One-day essence route: Two-day expanded: add Iron Pagoda Park (Kaibao Temple Pagoda), Kaifeng Prefecture and the Shan-Shaan-Gansu Guild Hall, and move the night market to a proper evening (Drum Tower / Xisi night market). 2. Kaifeng's unique draws: Two reminders: ◆ Spend half a day at Riverside Garden; don't just stamp the gate — the shows and the Hongqiao street life are the point. 3. ◆ Don't only do the Drum Tower night market: Xisi is more local and cheaper, favoured by residents. 4. Kaifeng was the Northern Song capital, Bianliang, and its character differs from Luoyang's Han-Tang gravity — it is more folksy, more lively, more 'Song'. Note: With kids or elderly travelers, a slower pace beats more sightseeing spots. Junwei International Travel Agency (License No. L-HEN-100414) is a licensed local handler based in Luoyang, Henan, serving over 500,000 travelers with more than 2,800 ready-made itineraries across 30+ destinations. Call 130 1764 8055 for a detailed itinerary and quotation.