Zhaoling District Travel

Zhaoling District, Luohe City, Henan Province — the hometown of Xu Shen, the Sage of Chinese Characters, boasts numerous historical relics such as Zhaoling Ancient City, integrating Central Plains culture with Shahe River scenery. This 2-day 1-night itinerary takes you to experience the charm of Chinese character culture and the customs of ancient Luohe.

2000+
Years of City-Building History
2
National-Level Cultural Relic Protection Units
10+
Cultural Attractions
15+
Local Specialties
Panoramic View of Xu Shen Cultural Park Memorial Archway
Xu Shen Cultural Park - Hometown of the Sage of Chinese Characters
A cultural park themed on Xu Shen, the philologist of the Eastern Han Dynasty, showcasing the history of Chinese character development and the cultural value of "Shuowen Jiezi (Explaining and Analyzing Characters)"

2-Day 1-Night Cultural Exploration Tour of Zhaoling District

Explore the origin of Chinese characters, visit the relics of ancient Luohe, admire the beautiful scenery of Shahe River, taste the flavors of Central Plains, and experience the cultural heritage of south-central Henan

Itinerary Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Xu Shen Cultural Park, Zhaoling Ancient City, Shahe River Scenic Area, Huashentai Xingguo Temple
Suitable For
Culture Enthusiasts, Family Travelers, History Researchers
Per Capita Budget
¥500-¥800
01
Exploring the Sage of Chinese Characters
Xu Shen Cultural Park · Chinese Character Museum · Shahe River at Dusk
Itinerary Highlights

Visit Xu Shen Cultural Park in the morning to systematically understand the evolution history of Chinese characters; tour Luohe Branch of China Character Museum in the afternoon; stroll along the Shahe River in the evening to enjoy the sunset glow.

Attraction Arrangement
Xu Shen Cultural Park
A national 4A-level scenic spot, centered on the tomb of Xu Shen, a philologist of the Eastern Han Dynasty, including buildings such as the Character Sage Hall, Shuzhong Hall, and Shuowen Hall, showcasing the cultural essence of "Shuowen Jiezi".
China Character Museum (Luohe Branch)
A thematic museum established based on Xu Shen's cultural resources, collecting more than 300 pieces of various character cultural relics, with an interactive experience area where you can participate in activities such as Chinese character rubbing.
Shahe River (Zhaoling Section) Scenic Area
The core landscape belt of the Shahe River flowing through Zhaoling, with riverside trails, water-friendly platforms and cultural squares, is a good place for citizens to relax and enjoy the river view.
Practical Information
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Hotels in Zhaoling Urban Area
  • Homestays around Xu Shen Cultural Park
  • Scenic Hotels along Shahe River
Food Recommendations
  • Luohe Sesame Candy
  • Zhaoling Braised Dishes
  • Egg Stuffed Pancake
  • Oil Spiral Bun
Travel Tips
  • It is recommended to hire a tour guide for Xu Shen Cultural Park (¥50)
  • Pay attention to sun protection along the Shahe River in summer
  • You can experience the cruise ship project in the evening (18:00-20:00)
02
Tracking Ancient Luohe
Zhaoling Ancient City · Xingguo Temple · Folk Custom Experience
Itinerary Highlights

Visit the ruins of Zhaoling Ancient City in the early morning to learn about the history of the Zhaoling Alliance during the Spring and Autumn Period; visit the thousand-year-old Huashentai Xingguo Temple in the morning; experience local folk handicrafts in the afternoon and buy special souvenirs.

Attraction Arrangement
Zhaoling Ancient City
A national key cultural relic protection unit, an important city site during the Spring and Autumn Period, with existing rammed earth city wall relics. It is the site of the "Zhaoling Alliance", witnessing the history of the alliance of feudal lords in the Central Plains.
Huashentai Xingguo Temple
An ancient temple built in the Eastern Han Dynasty, with an existing Ming Dynasty main hall and a thousand-year-old cypress tree. Named after the legend of "Huashentai (Incarnation Platform)", the temple preserves many stone tablets from past dynasties.
Zhaoling Folk Culture Park
A park showcasing the folk culture of Luohe area, where you can experience traditional handicrafts such as paper-cutting and clay sculpture, and watch folk opera performances.
Practical Information
Transportation Guide
  • Taxi from Zhaoling urban area to the ancient city ruins takes about 15 minutes
  • There are tourist shuttle buses between attractions (depart on the hour)
  • Folk Culture Park is reachable on foot
Ticket Information
  • Xu Shen Cultural Park: ¥40
  • Zhaoling Ancient City: Free (registration required)
  • Xingguo Temple: ¥10
  • Folk Culture Park: ¥20
Travel Tips
  • Most of the ancient city ruins are outdoor areas, it is recommended to wear comfortable sports shoes
  • Photography is prohibited in Xingguo Temple
  • Experience projects in Folk Culture Park need to be booked in advance

Must-Try Foods in Zhaoling District

Luohe Sesame Candy

A traditional snack in Zhaoling District, made from sesame and maltose, with a crispy and sweet taste. It has a history of over a hundred years and is a must-have food for local festivals.

Zhaoling Braised Dishes

A representative of braised dishes in southern Henan, made by stewing local seasonal vegetables with meat over low heat, featuring rich soup and abundant nutrition.

Egg Stuffed Pancake

A characteristic breakfast on the streets of Luohe. Egg liquid is poured into a pancake that is half-cooked, fried until golden, and then spread with special sauce, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Oil Spiral Bun

A traditional pasta in Zhaoling. The dough is made into a spiral shape through multiple processes, with distinct layers after baking. It can be eaten directly or with vegetables, with a strong wheat aroma.

Travel Tips for Zhaoling District
Best Travel Time
  • Spring (March-May): Pleasant climate, suitable for outdoor tours
  • Autumn (September-November): Clear and crisp weather, concentrated cultural activities
  • Winter (December-February): Can experience characteristic folk festivals
Must-Try Foods
  • Luohe Sesame Candy (recommended from time-honored shops)
  • Zhaoling Eight Bowls
  • Egg Stuffed Pancake (street breakfast stalls)
  • Shahe River Boiled Fish
  • Oil Spiral Bun with Meat
Budget Reference
  • Tickets: About ¥70
  • Accommodation: ¥120-200 per night
  • Catering: ¥60-100 per day
  • Transportation: About ¥50
  • Total: ¥500-800
Frequently Asked Questions
  • Tour guide service at Xu Shen Cultural Park? → Can book a human guide or rent an audio guide (¥20)
  • Recommended visiting time for Zhaoling Ancient City? → 1-1.5 hours
  • Where to buy authentic Luohe Sesame Candy? → Traditional pastry shops on Zhaoling Old Street
  • Transportation between attractions? → Take a taxi in urban area or tourist shuttle bus