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Kaifeng · 开封

Kaifeng Travel Guide

Song dynasty capital — night markets and ancient parks

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History & cultureFood city

Overview

What it is

Kaifeng was capital of the Northern Song dynasty (960–1127), one of the world's largest cities at the time.

How to plan

The Qingming River Park recreates the famous painting. Night markets are legendary—Kaifeng is called 'China's Night Market Capital.'

When to go

Best time: April–May, September–November. Climate: Continental — cold winters, hot summers.

Best for

Best for first-time China travelers who want sights, food, and bookable experiences sequenced into one workable Kaifeng trip.

Practical

Best timeApril–May, September–November
ClimateContinental — cold winters, hot summers
BasicsUTC+8 · CNY (¥) · Mandarin
Sights4
Food3
Experiences—

Tips

Getting around

Small city—walkable in center.

Navigation

Didi cheap.

Pay

Metro, stalls, and rides mostly take Alipay or WeChat. Set up Alipay with a foreign card before you land.

Show this

Show the Chinese name “开封” to drivers and staff. It beats a long English explanation.

Location & how to go

Kaifeng, China

MetroSmall city—walkable in center. Didi cheap. High-speed rail to Zhengzhou (30min), Luoyang (1h). No metro yet.
BusCity buses serve the area, but routes change. Use Amap/Baidu for the live stop and last bus near Kaifeng.
Taxi / DidiDidi or a licensed taxi is the simplest door-to-door. Set destination to “开封” and pay in-app with Alipay/WeChat.

Top sights

Tickets, duration, and transport notes — ready for your trip cart.

Local food

Kaifeng hotels, transfers & popular bookings

Book tickets, transfers, and popular tours via partners first — then request deeper local experiences through ChinaPie.

Book Kaifeng hotels →Partner link — same price for youBook airport transfer →Book train tickets →

Disclosure: Some links are affiliate links. ChinaPie may earn a commission on eligible bookings at no extra cost to you.

Prices shown are planning references only. Actual rates fluctuate with season, holidays, demand, and partner promotions — the price at checkout on the booking site is authoritative.

Kaifeng travel FAQs

Is Kaifeng safe for tourists?

Yes for typical tourist areas. Keep phones and bags secure on metro and in crowded night spots; use licensed taxis or Didi.

Do I need a visa to visit Kaifeng?

Depends on your passport. Check ChinaPie Plan & Prep → Visa for 30-day visa-free and 240-hour transit options before booking.

Can I use Alipay in Kaifeng?

Yes—foreigners can set up Alipay with passport + international card. See /prep/alipay-setup for the step-by-step guide.

Which countries are visa-free for China in 2026?

China offers unilateral visa-free entry to 40+ countries including France, Germany, UK, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Belgium, Austria, Ireland, Portugal, Greece, and more. Stay: up to 30 days. IMPORTANT: US passport holders are NOT on the unilateral visa-free list and need a visa. Check latest list at China Immigration official site before travel.

Do US citizens need a visa for China?

Yes. US passport holders need a visa to enter mainland China. The 10-year multiple-entry tourist visa (L visa) is common: $185 fee, processing 3-5 business days. You can also use the 240-hour transit visa-free if transiting to a third country. Apply at Chinese embassy/consulate or via authorized visa agencies. Many travel blogs incorrectly say US is visa-free — this is false.

Can I use my foreign credit card in China?

Major hotels, international restaurants, and large malls accept Visa/Mastercard. But most small shops, street food, taxis, and local experiences only accept Alipay or WeChat Pay. Link your foreign card to Alipay (Tour Card) for daily use. Carry some cash (¥500-1000) as backup.

Is China safe for foreign tourists?

China is consistently ranked among the safest countries for tourists. Violent crime against foreigners is extremely rare. Common issues: pickpocketing in crowded areas (train stations, metro), taxi scams at airports, and fake goods at markets. Normal precautions apply: keep valuables secure, use licensed taxis/Didi, don't accept unsolicited tours. Women traveling solo generally feel very safe even at night.

What is the 240-hour transit visa-free policy?

Citizens of 54 countries can transit through China visa-free for up to 240 hours (10 days) if they have a valid visa for a third country and a connecting flight ticket. You must enter and exit through designated ports (Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, etc.). You can travel within the province/municipality of entry. Perfect for combining a China experience with a trip to Japan, Korea, or Southeast Asia.

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