Kaifeng Travel Guide

Kaifeng, historically known as Dongjing and Bianjing (also referred to as Daliang and Bianliang), is a city in China with a rich heritage and historical significance. Abbreviated as Bian, it boasts the titles of “Ancient Capital of Ten Dynasties” and “Metropolis of Seven Dynasties.” Notably, Kaifeng is the only city in the world whose central axis has never changed throughout its history. The unique “city over city” archaeological layers in Kaifeng are unparalleled in the world’s archaeological and urban history, with six ancient cities buried beneath the current one due to repeated flooding by the Yellow River over two millennia.

With over 3,000 years of history and seven dynastic changes, Kaifeng’s legacy is vividly depicted in the famous painting “Along the River During the Qingming Festival,” illustrating the bustling prosperity of Bianjing during the Northern Song Dynasty. The book “Dream of the Eastern Capital” further evokes the grandeur of its imperial past. Today, the grandeur of Kaifeng’s ancient architecture stands in poignant contrast to its modern vibrancy.

In autumn, the city transforms into a golden sea of chrysanthemums, painting the town in rich hues. The ancient buildings take on an even more profound and venerable appearance under the setting sun. At night, the bustling Drum Tower night market offers a lively display of local life and culture. The contemporary city of Kaifeng, with its blend of historical depth and modern dynamism, continues to surprise and captivate visitors.