Things To Do
in Kaiwen

Freshly made la mian or knife-cut noodles served in rich broths with local seasonings — widely available in small restaurants and breakfast stalls.

Must-Try!

Soft mantou and meat or vegetable-filled baozi from morning vendors and local bakeries; great to try at neighborhood markets.

Hearty, slow-cooked meat dishes reflecting Henan comfort cuisine; common in mid-range eateries and family restaurants.

Regional pastries, sesame cakes and sugar-coated snacks found at tea houses and street vendors around historic districts.

The riverside/old-street night market is where you’ll find grilled skewers, fried snacks, buns, sugar-coated fruit and small desserts — ideal for sampling many small plates.

Small alleyway clusters near temples and markets where locals grab breakfast — perfect for baozi, soy milk and noodle soups.

A simple 'nǐ hǎo' (hello) goes a long way. Show polite respect to elders and keep a low volume in temples and solemn sites.

Queuing can be informal in busy markets; be patient and polite. Avoid loud confrontation — a calm approach is best when disputes arise.

Ask permission before photographing individuals in close-up, especially inside temples or private areas. Respect signs that prohibit photos.

If invited to a local home, bringing a small gift is appreciated. When dining, try a bit of each dish and accept offers from hosts to show appreciation.

Tipping is not customary in most local settings; small tips for exceptional service in higher-end hotels or guided tours are appreciated but not expected. For porters or private drivers a small cash tip is fine.

Mobile payments (WeChat Pay and Alipay) dominate local transactions; cash (RMB) is still widely accepted for markets and small vendors. Credit cards work at larger hotels and restaurants, but many small shops accept only UnionPay or mobile apps — carry some cash.

Mild temperatures and blossoming trees make spring a pleasant time to visit; occasional rain means carrying a light umbrella. It’s a popular period for cultural festivals and comfortable sightseeing.

Hot and humid summers with temperatures that can be high; afternoons are best spent indoors or in riverside shaded areas. Expect more tourists during holiday weeks and stay hydrated.

Clear skies and cool, comfortable weather — widely considered the best time for outdoor sightseeing and hiking day trips. Autumn colors appear in nearby hills and parks.

Winters are cold and dry, with occasional frost; heavy snow is uncommon but temperatures can dip below freezing. Some outdoor attractions remain open but dress warmly.

The main international gateway for Henan province; about 1–1.5 hours by car or shuttle to Kaiwen depending on traffic. Offers domestic and international routes and good ground-transport links (bus, taxi, private transfer).

A secondary airport serving the broader region; further away and with fewer international connections but useful for some domestic flights and access to nearby cultural sites.

Vegetarian options are available but limited in small street stalls. Look for noodle soups with vegetable broth, tofu dishes and vegetable buns; in restaurants, ask for '素' (sù) dishes or point to vegetables on the menu. Carry a translation card noting common ingredients to avoid (meat broths, lard).

Full allergen awareness can be limited; bring translations for key allergies. Halal food is less common than in larger cities — seek out designated Muslim eateries or ask hotel staff for recommendations.