Zhengzhou 郑州 — Central China Transport Hub & Ancient City
Zhenghou is Henan's capital and China's railway center. The Henan Museum houses one of China's greatest artifact collections, and it's the gateway to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes.
130,000+ artifacts spanning 8,000 years. Shang bronzes, jade carvings, and ancient astronomical instruments. Free entry.
Hours: 9:00–17:30 (closed Mon)
Admission: Free
Birthplace of Chan Buddhism and Shaolin Kung Fu (495 AD). Pagoda Forest has 243 tomb pagodas. UNESCO World Heritage.
Hours: 7:30–18:00
Admission: ¥80