MileHacker Logo
Xinxiang Travel Resources

Xinxiang Travel Resources

Xinxiang Henan, China Travel Guide

Essential Apps for the Destination

Communication & Payments

  • WeChat (微信, Wēixìn)

    Required for communication, social media, and mobile payments.

  • Alipay (支付宝, Zhīfùbǎo)

    Dominant mobile payment platform, essential for transactions.

  • Didi Chuxing (滴滴出行)

    China's main ride-sharing app, convenient city transport.

  • Baidu Maps / Amap

    Accurate navigation apps, real-time routes.

  • Google Translate

    Download offline Chinese language pack for translatings.

Translation & Booking

  • Pleco

    An excellent Chinese dictionary app.

  • Ctrip (Trip.com)

    Reliable for hotel and flight bookings.

  • Booking.com / Agoda

    Additional platforms for accommodation.

  • Xinhua News Agency

    English-language news on China.

  • China Daily

    Updates on China in English.

Online Resources

Official Tourism Sites

Search for the Henan Provincial Department of Culture plus Tourism website for general information.

Social Media Inspiration

Follow bloggers who travel focusing on Chinese culture and destinations.

Podcasts & Digital Media

Explore broader content about traveling in Henan Province or Central Plains culture.

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

  • General China guidebooks (e.g., Lonely Planet China).
  • Sections on Henan Province and major cities.
  • Purchase local city maps (in Cantonese) at bookstores.
  • Limited specific detail on Xinxiang itself.

Books & Publications

  • Academic texts on Henan Province's history.
  • Fiction set in ancient or modern China.
  • Local newspapers for current events (in Chinese).
  • No specific Xinxiang books for international readers.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers

  • Police: 110
  • Fire: 119
  • Ambulance: 120
  • Traffic Accident: 122

Hospitals & Clinics

  • Xinxiang Central Hospital
  • First Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University
  • Ask hotel staff for recommendations
  • For non-emergency medical advice.

Lost Documents

  • Report loss to local police (110).
  • Obtain a police report.
  • Get in touch with your embassy or consulate.
  • For emergency travel documents.

Further Reading & Exploration

Critical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 110
  • Fire: 119
  • Ambulance: 120
  • Traffic Accident: 122

Embassy / Consulate

  • Communicate with your country's's embassy or consulate.
  • Assistance for lost passports.
  • Help in emergency situations.
  • Consular services in major cities.

Lost Document Steps

  • Report loss to local police (110).
  • Obtain a police report.
  • Contact your embassy immediately.
  • For emergency travel documents.

Documentaries & Films

Regional Context

  • Documentaries on the Yellow River.
  • Films about the Shaolin Temple.
  • Content on Taihang Mountains.

Cultural Background

  • General Chinese history documentaries.
  • Content about Chinese culture.
  • Gain broader context for your visit.

Music & Art

Local Performing Arts

  • Henan Opera (Yuju Opera, 豫剧).
  • Local traditional performance art.
  • Seek live performances for the culture.

Traditional Chinese Music

  • Explore various genres.
  • Prepare your ears for regional sounds.
  • Listen to recordings.

Online Communities & Forums

Expat Forums

  1. Expat forums (e.g., Expat.com).
  2. Limited talks on Henan Province.
  3. Useful for asking specific questions.
  4. Meet other travelers.
  5. Find shared experiences.

Traveler Connections

  1. Lonely Planet forums.
  2. Share travel tips.
  3. Seek advice from experienced travelers.
  4. Discover hidden gems.
  5. Build connections.

Language Learning Resources

Language Learning Apps

Utilize Duolingo, Memrise, HelloChinese for interactive Mandarin lessons.

Audio-Based Learning

Pimsleur delivers audio-based lessons for practical conversational skills.

Online Resources

YouTube features many channels offering free Mandarin lessons and pronunciation.

Phrasebook Recommendation

Consider purchasing a Travel phrasebook. This offers quick access to common phrases and vocabulary without relying on your phone.

Essential Preparations

Required Advance Bookings

Documents & Entry

  • Visa

    This is the most important item for entry.

  • International Flights

    Book to Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO).

  • High-Speed Rail Tickets

    Reserve, especially for popular routes or holidays.

Accommodation & Tours

  • Hotels

    Confirm your main accommodation in Xinxiang and other cities.

  • Major Tours

    Plan specific organized tours (e.g., Shaolin Temple from Zhengzhou).

  • Cultural Etiquette

    Understand Chinese norms (no tipping, dining customs).

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Mandarin Phrases

Familiarize yourself with basic Mandarin greetings and useful phrases.

Mobile Payment Systems

Understand Alipay and WeChat Pay setup for foreigners.

Local Geography

Gain a general sense of Xinxiang's layout and nearby attractions.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Home Security

  • Secure home: lock doors and windows.
  • Set alarms if offered.
  • Arrange for pet sitters.
  • Organize plant watering.

Mail & Contacts

  • Hold mail or ask neighbor to collect.
  • Inform family of itinerary.
  • Share emergency contact information.
  • Keep trusted friends updated.

Chronological Planning Timeline

+ Months Before

  • Apply for Chinese visa (several weeks).
  • Check passport validity (6+ months).
  • Book international flights to CGO.
  • Begin itinerary research.

Month Before

  • Book major accommodations and HSR tickets.
  • Obtain World Nomads travel insurance.
  • Consult health professional for vaccinations.
  • Arrange prescription medications.

Digital Document Backup

Create a digital folder on your phone or cloud storage with scanned copies of your passport, visa, insurance policy, and flight/hotel confirmations. This provides a backup if physical documents are lost.

Xinxiang Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts