Zhongyuan Tower (中原福塔), also known as the “Henan Radio and Television Tower,” stands proudly at a height of 268 meters, with its mast antenna soaring to 120 meters, resulting in a total elevation of 388 meters. It comprises four main sections: the tower base, tower body, tower top, and mast. The tower base takes the form of a ding, symbolizing the central position of Henan Province. The tower body resembles the ancient musical instrument combination known as “Bian Nao Qi Ming,” representing the communication and broadcasting functions of Zhongyuan Tower. Viewed from above, the tower resembles a blooming plum blossom, symbolizing the blossoming of prosperity and blessings upon the central plains. From the ground, it appears as a rotating, upward-reaching, gracefully dancing frozen fireworks display.
Among the world’s completed all-steel structure television towers, Zhongyuan Tower holds the distinction of being the tallest, surpassing similar structures such as the Tokyo Tower in Japan (333 meters) and the Eiffel Tower in France (321 meters). Its imposing stature not only serves as a beacon of communication but also stands as a testament to human engineering and architectural prowess, representing the spirit of progress and innovation in Henan Province and beyond.
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Basic Information
Estimated Length of Tour | 1 hour |
Ticket Price | Admission (Obswervation decks): 120 RMB Admission + Entertainment: 288 RMB |
Opening Hours | 9.30 -19.00; Last admission: 18.30 (8th October – 30th April) 9.30 – 22.00; Last admission: 21.30 (1st May – 7th October) |
Telephone Number | 0086-0371-60609199 0086-0371-60609299 |
Location and Transportation
Zhongyuan Tower is located at 1206 Hanghai East Road, Guancheng Hui Autonomous District, Zhengzhou City, Henan Province, China. To get there, you can choose one of the following ways:
Bus: Take bus 42, 129, 165, 168, 727, B17, G86, S163, S169, S211, Y12, Y63, or Y73, and get off at Hanghai Stadium Stop (航海体育场站).
Metro: The closest metro station is Zhongyuan Futa (中原福塔) on line 5. After getting out of the station from Exit C, you will see the tower right in front of you.
Highlights of Zhongyuan Tower
Panoramic Mural
One of the most striking features of Zhongyuan Tower is its panoramic mural, “Jinxiu Zhongyuan,” which spans across the third and fourth levels of the tower base. This mural, created by thirteen renowned artists and professors from the Lu Xun Academy of Fine Arts over five years, showcases the famous landscapes and scenic spots of eighteen prefecture-level cities in Henan Province. Standing at 20 meters tall and stretching 175 meters in length, this 360-degree panoramic artwork encapsulates over 100 major tourist attractions across the province. Utilizing state-of-the-art audiovisual technology, the mural is accompanied by sound and light effects, enhancing the immersive experience for visitors. Showtimes are scheduled at 10:30 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, and 6:00 PM, each lasting for half an hour.
Observation Decks
The tower boasts indoor and outdoor observation decks, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The indoor observation deck on the 97th floor, situated approximately 251 meters above ground level, provides visitors with an opportunity for high-altitude sightseeing and showcases a display of souvenirs related to Zhongyuan Tower. Here, guests can view the names of 76 cities worldwide marked on the glass windows, indicating their respective directions, along with the distance in straight-line air miles from the tower to each city.
The outdoor observation decks span from the 99th to the 101st floors, with platforms on the upper, middle, and lower levels. The highest point, at an elevation of 268 meters, offers panoramic vistas in all directions. To the north, visitors can admire the captivating skyline of the Zhengzhou Central Business District, while the western view encompasses the historical charm of landmarks such as the Erqi Memorial Tower in downtown Zhengzhou. To the south lies the uniquely shaped Henan Stadium and the picturesque rural scenery, while the eastern vantage point reveals the modern allure of the Economic and Technological Development Zone.
Entertainment Features
Stroll in the Clouds: Experience the thrill and romance of walking in the clouds on the Skywalk, a circular pathway suspended at a vertigo-inducing height of 281 meters above ground level. Stretching 106 meters in total length and 2.6 meters in width, it is the world’s longest urban high-altitude transparent walkway without guardrails on a steel tower. Each step is an exhilarating adventure, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the sensation of strolling amidst the clouds.
Sky Slide: Take a thrilling ride on the outdoor glass slide, spanning 37 meters in length and seamlessly connecting to the Skywalk platform. Enjoy panoramic views as you swiftly traverse through the steel and glass skyline, offering an unobstructed perspective of the urban landscape from high above. This adrenaline-pumping experience provides visitors with an exhilarating descent from the heights of Zhongyuan Tower.