Zhengzhou 4-Day Tour: Henan Only Show & Shaolin Temple

Gather in the morning and depart for Only Henan, follow the tour guide to visit the main attractions, allowing ample time for photos and rest; enjoy a local specialty meal at noon, and check into the hotel in the evening to recharge for the next day’s itinerary.

Attraction Introduction: One of the highlights of the itinerary is Only Henan. ‘Only Henan·Theatrical Fantasy City’ is located in Zhongmu, Zhengzhou. It is a giant theatrical settlement made of rammed earth. Through more than twenty theaters and nearly a hundred performances, it showcases the hardships, harvests, and resilience of Central Plains civilization. The main performances such as ‘Fantasy City,’ ‘Train Station,’ and ‘Lijia Village’ have excellent reputations, while the smaller theaters are each uniquely creative, with the imagery of wheat waves running throughout. It has become a phenomenal cultural and tourism landmark of Henan. This is not a traditional scenic spot, but an immersive cultural experience. My understanding is that you must reserve a whole day, first schedule the main performances, then intersperse visits to the smaller theaters; book tickets in advance through official channels and check the performance schedule carefully, as popular shows often sell out.

Friendly Tips: The canyon water-walk sections are slippery, so be sure to wear anti-slip river trekking shoes or sports shoes, and protect valuable items such as mobile phones from water. Visitors generally report that young people enjoy the immersive experience at Theatrical Fantasy City, but tickets are expensive and it is time-consuming; it is recommended to focus on the main theaters and reserve at least half a day. According to actual conditions, joining a tour is most disappointing when rushed; listening to guided explanations is the essence, and the cultural stories behind each attraction are often more memorable than photos. Ask the guide immediately if something is unclear.

Gather in the morning and set off for Shaolin Temple. Follow the tour guide to visit the main attractions, leaving plenty of time for photos and rest. At noon, enjoy a local specialty meal. In the evening, check in to the hotel to rest and recharge for the next day's itinerary.

Attraction Introduction: Today's itinerary includes Shaolin Temple attractions. Shaolin Temple is located at the foot of Shaoshi Mountain's Five-Ru Peaks in Dengfeng Mount Song. It was first built in the 19th year of the Taihe period of the Northern Wei Dynasty (495 AD). It is both the ancestral temple of Chan Buddhism and the birthplace of Shaolin martial arts, with a history of more than 1,500 years. The main highlights are concentrated in three areas: Changzhu Courtyard, aligned along the central axis, includes the Mountain Gate, Hall of Heavenly Kings, Mahavira Hall, Sutra Library, and Lixue Pavilion, with halls and ancient steles lined up sequentially; the Pagoda Forest is the largest ancient pagoda complex still existing in China, with over 200 brick and stone tomb pagodas from the Tang to Qing dynasties, each corresponding to a high-ranking monk; the Dharma Cave on the Five-Ru Peaks is said to be the place where Bodhidharma meditated facing the wall for nine years. The Martial Arts Hall performs Shaolin martial arts shows at fixed times every day, showcasing real skills in fist techniques, weapons, and qigong. My understanding is that you should first follow the guide along the central axis of the temple and then explore it more freely; please remain quiet and walk around the pagodas in Pagoda Forest; for the martial arts performance, entering 15 minutes early helps secure a good seat.

Friendly Tips: The temple has many stone steps and thresholds, so avoid stepping on them. When worshiping, follow the order and avoid pushing. Visitors generally report that the martial arts show is most popular with families, while the Pagoda Forest and Chuzuan Temple are often overlooked. Note that commercialization in the scenic area is significant—check prices first for vegetarian meals and surrounding expenses. In practice, to eat authentically, go deeper into the alleys, as the queues at the main entrance are long and the taste is average. For local specialties, ask the price first and compare; local supermarkets often sell more authentic products.

Assemble in the morning and depart for Guoliang Village, follow the tour guide to visit the main attractions, allowing plenty of time for taking photos and resting; enjoy local specialty cuisine at noon, check in to the hotel in the evening, and recharge for the next day's itinerary.

Attraction Introduction: A highlight of the trip arranged in the itinerary is Guoliang Village. Guoliang Village is hidden on a sheer cliff deep in the Taihang Mountains and is famous for its "Cliff-Hanging Road"—in the 1970s, villagers, aiming to open a passage to the outside world, spent over five years cutting a tunnel about 1,300 meters long into the cliff with no large machinery, which is considered a miracle of the "contemporary Foolish Old Man." Today, this cliff-hanging road is the most hardcore check-in spot in the Taihang Mountains, and walking along it offers a bird's-eye view of the deep chasms and canyon villages. Guoliang Village is also called the "Chinese Film and Television Village" because several movies and TV dramas were shot there. My advice is to allow enough time when walking on the cliff-hanging road, look around and take photos, mind your footing and incoming vehicles; the best light is in the early morning or late afternoon, while noon light is rather flat. Wear anti-slip shoes and don’t get too close to the cliff.

Tips: The ancient town has a dazzling array of specialties—taste before buying, compare prices, and shop wisely. Visitors generally report that the cliff-side stone village connects to the cliff-hanging road, and the film shooting locations carry a storytelling feel; note that lodging and food in the village are simple, so keep expectations low for more enjoyment. Based on actual conditions, manage your energy—do the highlight activities in the morning when you’re fresh, slow down in the afternoon, don’t overexert on the first day, or you’ll feel exhausted for the following days.

Transfer to the station/airport per your departure, ending a pleasant journey.

Friendly tips: Pack the night before and keep ID, power bank and souvenirs together; allow extra time for the station/airport; bring your ID and stay with your guide, noting the meeting time and place. Traveler feedback — Return-day travelers remind: pack ID and souvenirs the night before; allow extra time. Practical note — Return-day tip: pack ID, power bank and souvenirs the night before; allow extra time—mountain roads are unpredictable.