The City God Temple in Zhengzhou (郑州城隍庙), also known as Chenghuang Temple, traces its origins back to the early Ming Dynasty, with a significant reconstruction undertaken in the 14th year of the Hongzhi era during the Qing Dynasty in 1501. Over the centuries, it has undergone several renovations and restorations, making it the most complete and largest ancient architectural complex preserved in Henan Province. One of the temple’s most vibrant traditions is its annual temple fair, held on the 18th day of the third lunar month. During this event, a myriad of folk crafts and local delicacies converge at the temple, attracting throngs of visitors and creating a lively atmosphere.
The deity worshipped at the Zhengzhou City God Temple is Ji Xin, a prominent general under Emperor Liu Bang, the founder of the Han Dynasty. During the Chu-Han Contention, when Liu Bang was besieged by Xiang Yu, the King of Chu, in Xingyang City, General Ji Xin devised a plan to feign surrender, allowing Liu Bang to escape. However, Ji Xin was captured by Xiang Yu and burned to death in anger. This act of loyalty deeply moved the people of Zhengzhou, leading to Ji Xin being revered as the City God of Zhengzhou.
The architectural layout of the City God Temple follows a traditional northern-facing orientation. Its main structures include the mountain gate, front hall, music tower, main hall, and sleeping quarters, all covered with glazed tiles and adorned with intricately carved eaves and flying rafters. The music tower, reaching a height of 15 meters, is a double-layered, gable-roofed building featuring elaborate relief carvings of dragons, phoenixes, lotus flowers, and lions, creating a dynamic and vivid scene.
The main hall of the temple is adorned with impressive architectural details, including roof ridge beasts, rolling dragons, and depictions of the Eight Immortals crossing the sea, as well as scenes of pine trees, cypresses, human figures, and birds and beasts, all meticulously carved and harmoniously arranged to bring the structure to life.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | Normal days: Free Temple Fair: 10 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 9.00 – 17.00; Last admission: 16.50 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0371-66341775 |
Location and Transportation
The City God Temple is located at No. 4 Shangcheng Road, Guancheng Hui Autonomous District, Zhengzhou City, Henan Province, China. Visitors can easily reach the temple by taking various bus routes within the city. Options include Bus Routes 2, 52, 58, 61, 65, 727, B17, and Y801, which all stop at Zhengzhou City God Temple Station.
