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Where to Stay in Kaifeng

Where to Stay in Kaifeng

Kaifeng Henan, China Travel Guide

Kaifeng Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Limited options, often small, family-run guesthouses for frugal travelers. Find options on Hostelworld.

  • Budget Hotels

    Major Chinese budget chains (Hanting, Home Inn, Jinjiang Inn) offer clean, basic, affordable rooms.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    A good selection of local 3-4 star hotels and some international chains. Explore options on Booking.com or Agoda.

  • Luxury Hotels

    A few 5-star international brand hotels and high-end domestic options. Check IHG Hotels for premium stays.

Specialized Lodging Options

  • Unique Local Accommodation

    Traditional guesthouses, often converted from historical courtyard homes, offer a distinctive cultural experience within the ancient city area.

  • Vacation Rentals and Apartments

    Few choices, but available through Chinese platforms like Tujia or Xiaozhu. Also explore options on Vrbo.

  • Homestay and Community-Based Tourism

    Formal homestays are less common; smaller guesthouses or family-run inns provide a like personal interaction. Consider TrustedHousesitters for unique stays.

  • Camping and Outdoor Accommodation

    Not available within Kaifeng city. Seek these activities in surrounding rural areas or national parks in Henan Province.

Kaifeng Neighborhood Guide

Kaifeng offers distinct areas, each with its own character.

City Center Drum Tower Square

Benefits
  • Central location
  • Walkable to major attractions
  • Numerous dining options (street food, restaurants)
  • Lively nightlife around the night market
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, especially at night
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Accommodation prices might be higher

Longting District Dragon Pavilion

Benefits
  • Proximity to Dragon Pavilion and Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden
  • Scenic and tranquil environment
  • Beautiful lake views and green spaces
  • Quieter ambiance away from main roads
Considerations
  • Potentially fewer budget dining choices
  • Can feel very touristy during the day

Wuyi Square/Railway Station Area

Benefits
  • Very practical for train travelers
  • More budget-friendly accommodation options
  • Transportation hub
Considerations
  • Less atmospheric than the old city center
  • Further from main historical sites
  • More reliance on public transport or taxis

Considerations

Safety

All central areas of Kaifeng are generally safe for tourists. Apply standard precautions against petty theft, especially in crowded markets and around train stations.

Proximity to Attractions and Noise

City Center: Excellent for walking. Longting District: Ideal for immediate attractions. Railway Station Area: Best for train connections. City Center areas can be lively and noisy.

Booking Strategies

Careful planning for accommodation can enhance your visit to Kaifeng.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (Spring/Autumn & Major Holidays): Book 1-3 months in advance. Prices rise during Chinese national holidays (e.g., Chinese New Year, May Day, Liberation Day).
  • Shoulder Season: Booking a few weeks in advance is usually adequate.
  • Low Season: Excellent prices appear a few days or even a week ahead of arriving.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • International Platforms: Booking.com and Agoda are reliable.
  • Local Platforms: Ctrip (Trip.com), Qunar, eLong, and Fliggy often list more domestic hotels and may provide better deals.
  • For unique vacation rentals, explore Vrbo.

Important Notes

Negotiation Customs
  • Walk-in rates at budget guesthouses might be negotiable during off-peak season, especially for longer stays.
  • Major chain hotels and higher-end establishments generally possess fixed rates.
Deposit and Cancellation Policies
  • Standard deposit and cancellation policies apply.
  • Always check specific terms on your chosen booking platform.
  • Many Chinese hotels may request full payment upon check-in.
  • Prices increase during Chinese federal holidays and peak tourist seasons.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

Peak Seasons

Accommodation prices rise significantly during Chinese national holidays and peak tourist seasons.

Off-Peak

Better deals and more availability are typically found outside major public holiday periods.

Planning

Schedule your visit around these periods to align with your budget and travel preferences.

Kaifeng Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some accommodation types appropriate for various travel styles and budgets.

Top Picks by Budget

Budget-Friendly

Consider local budget chain hotels like Hanting Hotel, Home Inn, or Jinjiang Inn. Small local guesthouses also provide affordable stays.

  • Hanting Hotel
  • Home Inn
  • Jinjiang Inn
Mid-Range Options

Holiday Inn Express Kaifeng City Center, Atour Hotel, and Kaifeng Hotel offer comfortable stays with excellent amenities.

  • Holiday Inn Express Kaifeng City Center
  • Atour Hotel
  • Kaifeng Hotel

Luxury Choices

Premium Stays

The New Century Grand Hotel Kaifeng and Pullman Kaifeng feature high-end services plus widespread facilities.

  • The New Century Grand Hotel Kaifeng
  • Pullman Kaifeng
Unique Cultural Stays

Seek out traditional guesthouses or boutique hotels within renovated historical buildings in the old city for a distinctive ambiance and connection to Kaifeng's past.

  • Classic Guesthouses
  • Boutique Hotels in Old City

Family-Friendly Options

  • Spacious Rooms

    Look for hotels offering larger rooms or suites for families.

  • Recreational Facilities

    Properties with swimming pools or green spaces are ideal for families traveling with children.

  • Amenities

    Some accommodations offer amenities suitable for young travelers.

  • Kid-friendly environments

    Hotels near parks or with family-oriented services are beneficial.

Solo & Long-Stay Accommodations

  • Solo Traveler Options

    Hostels (if available) or budget chain accommodations offer secure and affordable options for solo travelers, serving as a comfortable base.

  • Long-Stay Considerations

    Serviced apartment rentals are less common. Mid-range hotels may offer discounts for extended stays; inquire directly if you plan a longer visit.

  • Centrally Located

    Opt for accommodations near public transport or attractions to simplify extended explorations.

  • Connectivity

    Ensure reliable internet for long-term stays or remote work needs.

Planning Your Stay

Check Guest Reviews

Reading recent guest reviews can give you a better sense of a property's quality and suitability for your travel plans.

  • Insights into cleanliness
  • Feedback on service quality
  • Details on room comfort
  • Location convenience
Consider Your Itinerary

Choose accommodation that complements your planned activities, whether it's proximity to historical sites or easy access to night markets.

  • Optimal location for sightseeing
  • Access to public transportation
  • Alignment with your budget
  • Availability for your travel dates

Additional Accommodation Tips

Local Registration

Foreign visitors often require police registration at their accommodation. Hotels usually handle this; for rentals, confirm the procedure.

Wi-Fi Availability

Most hotels provide free Wi-Fi. Check reviews or property descriptions for details on connectivity quality.

Language Barrier

Staff at budget hotels may have restricted English. Consider translation apps for smoother communication.

Where to Stay in Kaifeng. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation