Henan 5 Days 4 Nights Hot Travel Guide: From Budget Trip at 500 RMB to In-depth Tour at 2000 RMB

Henan 5 Days 4 Nights Hot Travel Guide: From Budget Trip at 500 RMB to In-depth Tour at 2000 RMB Fully Adapted Henan hides the code of 5,000 years of Chinese civilization, featuring the solemnity of grotto Buddhist kingdoms and the lively atmosphere of local life. This guide covers the core routes of Zhengzhou, Luoyang, and Kaifeng, balancing money-saving tips with deep experiences, allowing you to enjoy high-quality travel on a budget! Itinerary Planning: Unlock the Essence of Ancient Capitals - Day 1: Zhengzhou · Cultural Appetizer: Upon arrival, head straight to the free Henan Museum. Book in advance to see the Jiahu bone flute and Lady Fuhao’s owl-shaped zun, and understand the roots of Central China in one hour. Have authentic Hui noodles for 20 RMB at Dehua Street for lunch. In the afternoon, take a bus to the Yellow River Scenic Area (30 RMB ticket) to watch the mighty river flow. Stay overnight at a hostel for 50 RMB/night, saving money and worry. - Day 2: Shaolin + Longmen · Double Highlights Check-in: Take an early train to Dengfeng (20 RMB fare). The Shaolin Temple combo ticket is 100 RMB, including a kung fu show. Watching the young monks’ hard qigong is truly impressive. In the afternoon, head to Longmen Grottoes, student tickets are half price at 50 RMB. Focus on the Vairocana Buddha statue. The atmosphere is magical when the lights come on at dusk. Stay in Luoyang old town and visit Lijingmen night market for skewers. - Day 3: Luoyang · Immersed in the Flourishing Tang Dynasty: Visit the free White Horse Temple in the morning, great for photos in the international Buddhist hall area. In the afternoon, check out the Tang Sancai at Luoyang Museum. At dusk, wear Hanfu and stroll through Luoyi Ancient City (free). Enjoy a water banquet set meal for about 30 RMB per person, with peony and swallow’s nest dishes a must-try. - Day 4: Kaifeng · Dream of the Great Song Dynasty: Take a high-speed train to Kaifeng in half an hour (15 RMB fare). The Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden ticket is 120 RMB, watch the Bian River cargo transport show and play Song-style touhu (pitch-pot). Have soup-filled buns for 10 RMB at lunch. In the afternoon, visit the free Longting Park. At night, explore Gulou night market, tasting peanut cake and braised fish all in one stop. - Day 5: Return · Souvenir Wrap-up: In the morning, visit around Zhengzhou’s Erqi Tower, buy Daokou roast chicken and iron stick yam as gifts, then return according to your train schedule. Hot Tips: Double Buff for Saving Money + Avoiding Pitfalls - Transportation: Choose regular trains for intercity travel, city buses cost 2-3 RMB per ride, and shared bikes are more cost-effective for short distances. - Tickets: Student ID gets half price universally. Luoyang ancient capital combo ticket is 100 RMB for 3 attractions. Museums are free on Mondays but require advance booking. - Food: Avoid overpriced restaurants in scenic spots. Health Road in Zhengzhou and Gulou night market in Kaifeng offer local specialties for about 30 RMB per person. - Accommodation: Hostels cost 50-80 RMB/night. Group bookings for homestays average 40 RMB per person. Book at least a week in advance for better prices. The beauty of Henan lies in the millennia of stone carvings and the lively street food stalls. Whether your budget is 500 RMB or 2000 RMB, you can gain a fulfilling experience here. Put on comfortable shoes, carry respect for history and a craving for delicious food, and you’re ready to go! Would you like me to customize a Henan travel schedule based on your travel days and budget?