Kaifeng Henan, China Travel Guide
Kaifeng experiences distinct seasons, each offering an unique atmosphere for travelers.
The climate varies from mild springs to hot, humid summers, pleasant autumns, and cold winters. This guide has an overview of each season.
Entry into China needs careful planning, specifically regarding visa requirements. Most foreign visitors, including citizens from the US, EU, UK, Canada, and Australia, need a Tourist Visa (L Visa).
The application process submission of documents to a Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Start your application well in advance of your travel dates.
Spring & Autumn
Mild weather, pleasant for outdoor activities, festivals.
Larger crowds, higher prices. Booking ahead is advisable.
March, June, November
Fewer crowds than peak season, reasonable prices for lodging and flights.
Chilly March, hot June, cooler November.
Summer & Winter
Lowest prices for flights and accommodations, fewest crowds at attractions.
Very hot and humid summer, cold with potential for snow and icy conditions in winter.
The application process submission of documents to a Chinese Embassy or A consulate in your home nation. Start your application well in advance of your travel dates.
You will need: application form, valid passport, recent photo, proof of itinerary (flights, hotels), letter of invitation (if visiting family/friends), and proof of financial means.
Accurate and truthful completion.
AT least six months of validity, 2+ blank pages.
48mm x 33mm, full face, light background.
Round-trip tickets, confirmed hotels.
Bank statements.
The currency used is Renminbi (RMB), otherwise known as Chinese Yuan (CNY), symbolized by ¥. Banknotes come in ¥1, ¥5, ¥10, ¥20, ¥50, ¥100, with coins in ¥0.1, ¥0.5, ¥1.
Accommodation (Hostel dorm/basic guesthouse: ¥60-¥150. Mid-range hotel: ¥200-¥450. Luxury hotel: ¥500-¥1500+).
Mobile payment applications are widely used and favored in China. Setting them up before your trip simplifies daily transactions.
Your well-being in Kaifeng matters.
No vaccinations are for entry into China, unless you arrive from a yellow fever endemic area without proof of shots.
However, several vaccinations are often recommended. Consult a travel doctor for specific advice.
Kaifeng, like many Chinese cities, can experience periods of poor air quality. Monitoring air quality indices (AQI) is advisable.
Wear an N95 mask if sensitive or during high pollution days.
Monitor AQI with a local app.
Summer (July-August) can bring heatstroke and dehydration due to high temperatures and humidity.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Seek shade during the hottest parts of the day and wear light, breathable clothing.
Winter (December-February) temperatures drop, increasing the risk of cold and respiratory illness.
Dress in layers to stay warm.
Avoid overly crowded indoor spaces if you are prone to illness.
| Service | Details | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Hospitals | Kaifeng First People's Hospital, Kaifeng Authentic Chinese Medicine Hospital. | For more specialized care, consider hospitals in nearby Zhengzhou. |
| Pharmacies | Commonly available. | Most pharmacists may not speak English. Carry a list of generic names for medications. |
| Emergency Services | Ambulance: 120, Police: 110, Fire: 119. | Keep contact details for your country's embassy readily available. |
Stay alert to your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and markets.
Keep valuables secure and out of sight to deter pickpockets.
Politly decline unsolicited invitations for "tea ceremonies" or "art student" engagements.
Risks: Flooding during summer monsoon, dust storms in spring.
While Kaifeng is near the Yellow River, extensive flood control measures are in place. However, heavy rainfall can still cause local flooding.
Dust storms typically less severe in Henan than in more northern or western regions of China. Stay updated on local weather forecasts.
Always prioritize official local advisories.
Ensure your routine vaccinations (MMR, DTaP, Varicella, Polio, Flu) are up to date before your trip.
Consult a travel doctor for specific recommendations like Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Je, and Rabies, depending on your travel style and duration.
No mandatory vaccination for entry unless arriving from a yellow fever endemic area without proof.
Having an emergency plan in place medical situations less stressful. Your preparedness can make a difference.
To minimize the risk of gastrointestinal issues, adhere to strict food and water personal hygiene routines throughout your trip.
Always drink bottled or purified water. Tap water in Kaifeng is generally not safe for direct consumption.
Choose reputable restaurants and street food vendors that appear clean and have a high turnover of customers.
Ensure all food is cooked thoroughly and served hot. Avoid raw salads or unpeeled fruits unless from a trusted establishment.
