Things to do in Zhumadian
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Top 10 attractions in Zhumadian
Caiming Park
Located on Caiming Road in Shangcai County, the park reflects the county's historical and cultural heritage, emphasizes the natural ecological environment, meets the requirements for cultural relic protection, and serves as an open, comprehensive park for citizens' leisure and entertainment.Shangcai · 798m from downtown
Qingchuan Pavilion
Qingchuan Pavilion is located on Hanyang's Tortoise Mountain and faces the Yangtze River, across the river from the Yellow Crane Tower. Qingchuan Pavilion was built in the Ming Dynasty and was named after the Tang Dynasty poet Cui Wei. The pavilion as it exists today was rebuilt in the 1980s according to historical photos. The scenic area consists of three main buildings: Qingchuan Pavilion, Wuhan Dayu's Palace, and Tiemenguan. There are also a number of other attractions such as various stone tablets and monuments, decorated archways, and cloisters, all rich in classical Chinese charm. It is very pleasant to climb up to the pavilion, feel the wind from the river, and enjoy the view of the river. The classical architecture and the greenery here complement each other perfectly, and the beautiful scenery has caused this to become a popular spot for wedding pictures in Wuhan.China · Wuhan
Luoyang Museum
The Luoyang Museum was established in 1958 and fully opened to the public on April 16, 2011. It is a comprehensive museum integrating cultural relic collection, exhibition display, and social education. Its collections span the long history of Luoyang as an ancient capital of thirteen dynasties. The main building stands like a giant ding (ritual vessel), symbolizing the "establishment of the capital in Luoyang." Its solemn and majestic facade itself serves as a popular photo backdrop. The large-scale permanent exhibition "Heluo civilization" unfolds along the timeline of prehistoric times, the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, the Han and Wei dynasties, the Sui and Tang dynasties, and the Five Dynasties and Northern Song period, connecting thousands of years of Luoyang's capital history into a complete viewing experience. The treasure hall on the second floor rotates displays of representative artifacts from the collection, including the Cao Wei white jade cup, the Northern Wei clay Buddha face sculpture, and the vividly expressive Northern Wei painted pottery figurine of two women holding hands, affectionately called the "best friends figurine" by visitors, all worth pausing to admire. In the Tang tri-color ceramics hall, the rare and majestic black-glazed tri-color horse and the massive Eastern Han stone artifacts are equally popular. The palace artifacts hall displays Qing Dynasty imperial artifacts transferred from the Forbidden City, including a golden nanmu wood tower carved from a single log and adorned with gilded miniature Buddhas, exuding royal grandeur. The stone carving hall is rustic and imposing, while the Wang Xiu peony art exhibition brings Luoyang peonies into paintings, each showcasing a unique blend of strength and delicacy. You can start your visit from the "Heluo civilization" exhibition and stone carving hall on the first floor, then proceed to the second floor to explore the treasure hall, Tang tri-color glazed pottery hall, and imperial artifacts hall in detail. The treasure hall features rotating exhibitions, and the specific exhibits are subject to the on-site display. A thorough visit typically takes two to three hours, so it is recommended to allocate sufficient time. Luoyang Museum consistently organizes flexible and diverse temporary exhibitions, continuously providing the public with new cultural offerings. It has introduced exotic-themed exhibitions such as "Civilizations of Qin-Han and Rome," "Norwegian style painting exhibition," "African cultural relics and art exhibition," as well as independently curated large-scale temporary exhibitions like "The starting point of the Silk Road - the Silk Road and Luoyang" and "The hub of the Grand Canal - the Grand Canal and Luoyang," enriching the exhibition content and ensuring visitors always find something new. Adhering to its mission of reaching out, Luoyang Museum has independently or collaboratively held cultural relic exchange exhibitions in over 20 countries and regions, including the United States, France, Japan, South Korea, Italy, Belgium, Sweden, and Australia, generating positive impacts both domestically and internationally. Luoyang Museum adheres to the organic integration of collection preservation, scientific research, and social education for balanced development. Practicing a people-oriented service philosophy, it enhances integration and interaction with society while excelling in exhibition reception and educational promotion. The museum actively recruits volunteers passionate about museum education, establishes cooperative units, and extends its reach to communities, schools, rural areas, and military camps to expand its coverage and influence. Additionally, it hosts monthly traditional culture lectures to disseminate heritage knowledge and cultivate museum audiences, achieving remarkable results. Luoyang Museum boasts a team of professionals with high academic standards. It has published numerous works and collections, with over 1,000 papers and representative publications including: "Han tombs at Shaogou in Luoyang," "Luoyang tri-colored glazed pottery of the Tang dynasty," "Bronze mirrors unearthed in Luoyang," "Han dynasty murals in Luoyang," "A collection of essays commemorating the 40th anniversary of Luoyang Museum," "Cultural treasures of Luoyang," "The charm of Luoyang—highlights of archaeological achievements in the Heluo region," "A history of the ancient capital Luoyang," "Research on Western Zhou bronze ware," "Heluo civilization," and more, all widely recognized by society and academia. In the era of promoting cultural development and prosperity, Luoyang Museum is bound to play an even greater role in the construction of socialist spiritual civilization.China · Luoyang
Henan Museum
Located in the city of Zhengzhou, Henan Museum has a rich collection of exhibits displaying Henan's 5,000-year history and offering a window into traditional Henanese culture. The museum has eight exhibition halls that can be visited in chronological order. The collection includes several national treasures, including the lotus crane vase, cloud copper chest, Saohao vase, Jiahu bone flute, Wushu copper plate and more. Be sure to visit them all.China · Zhengzhou
Wudang Mountains
The Wudang Mountains are located in Shiyan, northwestern Hubei province. Its main peak, Tianzhu Peak, stands at an elevation of over 1,600 m. Legend has it that Emperor Zhenwu cultivated and ascended to immortality here, while Taoist Zhang Sanfeng further synthesized the essence of martial arts during the late Yuan and early Ming dynasties, making this the birthplace of Wudang martial arts. During the Yongle era of the Ming dynasty, the imperial court launched the monumental project of "constructing the Forbidden City in the north and building the Wudang Mountains in the south." The mountain temples were built according to royal standards, with their layout unfolding layer by layer following the mythological narrative of Zhenwu's spiritual cultivation. The palaces blend harmoniously with the peaks, cliffs, and streams, creating an ethereal and mystical atmosphere befitting a sacred mountain. The attractions unfold along the mountain terrain from the base to the summit, connecting key areas like Taizi Slope, Zixiao Palace, Nanyan Palace, and Taihe Palace. At Taizi Slope, the undulating Nine-bend Yellow River Wall follows the mountain contours, while Wuyun Tower's "one pillar supporting twelve beams" remains an architectural marvel. Zixiao Palace, a well-preserved imperial Taoist temple, features the stately Zixiao Hall with its double-eaved, nine-ridged roof. Nanyan Palace clings dramatically to a cliff face, offering vertiginous views of the valley below. Ascending the stone-paved ancient path to Tianzhu Peak's summit reveals the gilded bronze Golden Hall—the architectural masterpiece of the entire complex. As the birthplace of Wudang martial arts, this place attracts enthusiasts from home and abroad who come to seek masters and practice martial arts. The Taizi Slope on the mountain and the Xuantian Yuxu Palace at the foot serve as daily training grounds for practitioners. If you happen to encounter Taoist priests or students demonstrating Wudang boxing techniques, take a moment to quietly observe and appreciate the centuries-old martial arts heritage. A two-day visit is recommended: On the first day, enter from the mountain gate to visit Taizi slope and Zixiao palace, then stay overnight near Wuyaling. On the second morning, first visit Nanyan palace, then ascend to the golden summit before hiking down or taking the cableway at Qiongtai. After exiting the mountain gate, you may also visit Xuantian Yuxu palace. The attraction's shuttle buses connect all major core attractions, allowing flexible combinations of hiking and riding. Most dining and lodging options are concentrated around Nanyan, convenient for rest during the climb. From late October to November each year, when the forests are ablaze with color and red leaves cover the mountains, it's the perfect time to enjoy the fall scenery in the mountains.China · Danjiangkou
Boshan Lake
Boshan Lake Scenic Area is located 40 kilometers south of Zhumadian City. Around the lake, surrounded by mountains, looming peaks, vertical and horizontal canyons, pines and green bamboos, lakes and mountains, the scenery is changeable in one day, and the four seasons are different. The lake is meandering for nearly 40 kilometers. The lake surface is vast and vast, and the water and sky meet. From west to east, it is like a dragon playing with pearls. Therefore, it is also called "Dragon Lake". Boshan Lake consists of four parts: Langling Scenic Spot, Dam Scenic Spot, Dongda Mountain Scenic Spot and Jiuzigou Scenic Spot. There are more than 30 famous scenic spots such as the God Camel Playing in the Water, the Tiger Roaring in the Sky, the Lake Island, the Wild Boar Ridge, the Golden Pheasant Peak, the General Wall, the Dagou Lake, the Cuizhu Stream, and the Monkey Cliff. The Boshan Lake Scenic Area has rich cultural connotations. Ming Taizu Zhu Yuanzhang once threw his army and stationed in Boshan, and slept on the foil (thin) at night. He wrote "Boshan" by the emperor's imperial pen; the ancient Yu passed by here, cured the flood, dredged the Qintou River, and benefited the people. The Temple of King Yu still exists to this day; Jiang Taigong assisted King Cheng in destroying Shang and Zhou after he descended from the Diaoyutai Mountain in Boshan and established the Zhou Dynasty; there is also the well-preserved Great Wall of Chu on the mountain, winding for hundreds of kilometers; Bawangtai and Tunbin Cave Monuments such as the Tomb of the Three Kings and the Tomb of the Three Kings have been lying quietly in the jungle for more than a thousand years; modern artists have discerning eyes and treasures, and the crew of CCTV's "Journey to the West" and "Long March Drama" have all used this location as a location.Queshan · 20.2 km from downtown
Leizu Park
Leizu Cultural Park is located west of the intersection of Xiping Avenue and National Highway 107 in Xiping County. It covers approx. 500 mu and is a large-scale cultural venue that integrates functions such as Leizu worship, sightseeing, cultural experience, and leisure activities for citizens.Xiping · 3.6 km from downtown
Tongshanhu Forest Park
Known as the "Central Plains' Great Forest," Tongshan Lake Scenic Area consists of Tongshan Lake National Forest Park and Tongshan Lake National Wetland Park. The ancient, towering trees form a dense canopy, creating a natural oxygen bar with exceptionally high negative oxygen ion levels—ideal for fitness and wellness. It serves as a breeding base for loblolly pine mother trees, renowned as "golden seeds." Nestled at the foot of Tongshan Mountain, the lake has a storage capacity of 133 million cubic meters. Its crystal-clear, unpolluted waters reflect the surrounding mountains, while its islands resemble floating boats, rivaling the scenic beauty of southern China. A paradise for birds, it embodies the poetic tranquility of "moonlight filtering through pines, clear springs flowing over stones." The elusive Tongshan Lake Monster adds an air of mystery, making it one of China's top four legendary water creature sites. The lake's signature dish, fresh silver carp soup, won gold at Henan's First Food Expo. Key attractions include Bird Island, Cactus Island, Buddha's Foot Stone Island, and Pine Bay Fishing Spot. Dubbed one of "Henan's Ten Most Beautiful Lakes" and the "Beidaihe of Central Plains," it's a must-visit destination.Biyang · 17.2 km from downtown
Kaifeng Fu (Kaifeng Palace)
During the Northern Song dynasty, Kaifeng Fu (Kaifeng Palace) was where Bao Zheng, the renowned "Justice Bao," served as the prefect. The original Kaifeng Fu of the Song dynasty was long destroyed by floods. What travelers see today is a recently reconstructed artificial ancient-style attraction. The gate of Kaifeng Fu (Kaifeng Palace) faces south, and travelers enter the attraction from here to begin their visit. The attraction is centered on buildings such as the main hall, conference hall, and Meihua hall, flanked by Kaifeng Fu-Tianqing temple, Mingli courtyard, Kaifeng Fu-Qianlong palace, Qingxin tower,Prison, Yingwu Tower, Yinbin Hall, and other halls of various sizes. Each hall is relatively small in scale. Travelers can follow the attraction map to visit the attractions along the central axis before exploring some attractions on both sides. Travelers can view the interior scenes of a Northern Song government office in the main hall and council chamber along the central axis. In the plum blossom hall in the northern part of the attraction, there are recreated scenes of Judge Bao adjudicating cases while "sitting southward in the yamen," complete with wax figures. West of the main gate, the view includes a prison office, Kaifeng Fu (Kaifeng Palace)-prison temple, death row cells, and gendered prison cells—all arranged with sculptures, torture devices, and scenes reflecting the penal administration of the Northern Song period. In the Qianlong hall and Qingxin tower east of the central axis, travelers can see statues of emperors Taizong, Zhenzong, and Qinzong of the Song dynasty, along with biographical introductions of all Kaifeng magistrates from the Northern Song era. Travelers can also watch many historical reenactment performances when visiting the attraction, such as "Yamen opening ceremony" and "Judge Bao presiding over a case".China · Kaifeng
Songshan Shaolin Scenic Area
It is said that "all martial arts originate fromShaolinNot only Chinese people who grew up deeply influenced by Shaolin kung fu, but also many international friends visiting Henan will go to see Shaolin temple. It is not only a sacred place for martial arts worldwide, but also the ancestral temple of Zen Buddhism. Striking some classic martial arts poses for photos at Shaolin temple makes the swords and shadows of the martial world seem to flash before your eyes. AboutShaolin TempleTwo keywords 1. The founder of Zen Buddhism The Shaolin Temple is a sacred Buddhist site in China and the ancestral temple of Chan Buddhism. In 527 AD, the renowned Indian monk Bodhidharma (known as the founder of Zen) traveled by sea to southern China, crossed the Yangtze River northward into the Central Plains, and arrived at Shaolin. He meditated and taught dharma in the mountains behind the Shaolin Temple, first advocating the Chan teaching of "mind-to-mind transmission," thereby establishing the temple's revered status as the ancestral home of Chan Buddhism. Nowadays, many visitors come to Shaolin Temple to pray for blessings and peace. The origin of martial arts After the "Thirteen monks with staffs rescued Li Shimin" incident in the early Tang Dynasty, Shaolin Temple became renowned worldwide for its exquisite "Shaolin Kung Fu," and since thenShaolinMonks practicing martial arts has become a common tradition passed down through generations. The Shaolin Temple is the birthplace of Shaolin kung fu, andShaolinThe pai school is a martial arts sect with a wide influence, long history, and numerous boxing styles in the wulin (martial arts world). Since ancient times, it has been regarded as "the foremost martial arts sect in the world" and the supreme authority of martial arts by Chinese people. The Shaolin Temple scenic area - pagoda forest is the burial ground of Shaolin Temple's successive abbots, serene and solemn. You might even catch glimpses of the movie "Shaolin Temple" here. Travel tips What to do? How long to stay? Recommended self-guided tour activities: Half-day tour:Shaolin Temple- Pagoda forest - Chuzu nunnery - Damo cave - Songshan Shaolin scenic area -Songshan Shaolin scenic area - Shaolin temple martial arts hallPerformance The Shaolin Temple complex mainly consists of three parts: the Changzhu Yuan Pagoda Forest, the Chuzu Nunnery, and the Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave. Most visitors traveling to Shaolin Temple from Luoyang or Zhengzhou choose this route. The layout of Shaolin Temple is typical of Han Chinese Buddhist temples, featuring central axis symmetry. After entering the mountain gate, you can walk straight ahead. The temple is not large, and the visit can be completed within an hour. The Shaolin Temple scenic area - pagoda forest is located approx. 400 m west of Shaolin Temple, serving as the burial ground for the temple's eminent monks throughout history. As the Buddhist saying goes: "Saving one life is better than building a seven-story pagoda." Here, you can learn about the life stories of Shaolin Temple's eminent monks across different dynasties. The Chuzu Temple and Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave are also near the Shaolin Temple, accessible by walking. The Chuzu Temple was built by people of the Song Dynasty to commemorate Bodhidharma's wall-gazing meditation, while the Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave is the very place where Patriarch Bodhidharma meditated facing a wall for nine years. 1-day tour:Shaolin Temple-Tallinn-Sanhuangzhai In the morning, follow the half-day tour itinerary to visit Shaolin Temple first, then proceed to the Shaolin Temple attraction - Pagoda Forest. The location is approx. 5 min walking distance from the Shaolin Temple attraction - Pagoda Forest.Shaolin cablewayAfter taking the cable car to Sanhuangzhai station, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the destination on foot.Sanhuangzhai scenic areaPortal. ActivitiesSanhuangzhai scenic areaIt takes at least 3-4 hours to explore the attraction, which features many unique geological views. The Sanhuangzhai cliffside plank walk is a must-see. Walking along the cliffside path with towering cliffs on one side and a sheer drop on the other is both a physical and mental challenge. 2-day tour:Shaolin Temple- Songyang scenic area - Zhongyue scenic area Shaolin Temple andSongyang academy, Mount SongLocated in Dengfeng, visitors with ample time can purchase a combo ticket for all three sites and explore them over two days. On the first day, visitShaolin scenic areaIn the evening, watch the live performance of "Zen Shaolin Music Ceremony", and the next day, head to Songyang, which is far from downtown Dengfeng.Zhongyue scenic area. Where can I see authentic Shaolin kung fu? Nowadays, it is difficult for ordinary visitors to witness the martial arts training of Shaolin monks at Shaolin temple. However, visitors can use the Shaolin temple combo ticket to watch the Shaolin kung fu performance at the Shaolin martial arts hall in Songshan Shaolin scenic area, approx. 700 m east of Shaolin temple. Performance time: The performance time at Songshan Shaolin scenic area - Shaolin temple martial arts hall is subject to the on-site announcement. Each performance lasts 30 minutes. The cost is included in the admission ticket. Where is a good place to stay?There are some farmhouse inns and guesthouses around Shaolin Temple, but the conditions are average. If you're not in a hurry, it's not recommended to stay here. If you need to stay overnight, Dengfeng city center is a good choice, as it offers convenient access to the three major attractions of Songshan Mountain. Shaolin TempleIs vegetarian food available?Since you're visiting Shaolin Temple, don't miss the vegetarian cuisine. The vegetarian restaurant inside Shaolin Temple is called "Huanxidi" and is worth trying. Shaolin story The most stubborn holdout in history: When it comes to stubborn holdouts, they didn't just appear in modern times. As early as the Tang dynasty, the Shaolin Temple emerged as such a case. Emperor Li Yuan of Tang issued an order for its demolition but failed. When Li Shimin came to power, not only was the Shaolin Temple spared from punishment, but it also received generous rewards. Compared to today's holdouts, the Shaolin Temple can be called the most legendary stubborn holdout in history. The origin of the matter was an imperial edict issued by Li Yuan, ordering the demolition of all temples within Henan province, including the Shaolin Temple. After receiving the imperial decree, hundreds of monks at Shaolin Temple refused to comply, standing united and resolute in collective defiance. Li Yuan had no choice, as the Tang dynasty was newly established and could not afford to gain a reputation for cruelty. He tacitly allowed the temple's "retention" but revoked the 4,000 acres of temple land previously granted by the Prince of Qin. Later, when Li Shimin became emperor, he granted Shaolin Temple an additional 4,000 mu of land, permitted the temple to train monk soldiers, lift the prohibition against killing, and consume alcohol and meat. Inside the temple, there is a stele titled "Emperor Taizong of Tang's decree to the Shaolin Temple abbot," which records this historical event. You may want to see it when visiting the Shaolin Temple.China · Dengfeng
Free things to do in Zhumadian
What travelers say about Zhumadian
一袭青衫³January 18, 2025
4.0
Cai Ming Garden is a theme park located in Shangcai County, Henan Province, named in memory of Li Si. The scenery is rather ordinary during the day, but at night, under the light, the unique charm of the thousand-year-old county is more prominent. The New Year is approaching, and people returning home can bring a rich atmosphere to it.
Caiming Park
沅大王September 30, 2026
5.0
The scenic area is filled with the fragrance of osmanthus blossoms. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Yangtze River Bridge and the Yellow Crane Tower. At the very top, watching the ships on the Yangtze and the cars and trains on the bridge, with the breeze blowing, is very pleasant, and it's not too crowded. The scenic area isn't large; a leisurely hour is about right to appreciate the scenery.
Qingchuan Pavilion and Guishan Scenic Area are directly connected by the Iron Gate Pass, which leads to the West Gate of Guishan. Climbing the mountain and enjoying the breeze and osmanthus fragrance is a wonderful experience.
Qingchuan Pavilion
M25***53October 19, 2026
5.0
There was a slight unpleasantness with the merchant's customer service when making the reservation, as I had booked a guided tour of the Longmen Grottoes, but the merchant's page description was incorrect and I requested a refund, which they refused. I only got a refund after contacting the platform's customer service. Because of this unpleasant experience, I didn't have high expectations for the tour. However, once inside the museum, Mr. Pei's explanation was truly dedicated, and he was a very kind person; it was clear he genuinely loved the experience. Special praise! 👍 He made up for the merchant's shortcomings! 👍
Luoyang Museum
_We***24October 21, 2026
5.0
A huge thank you to our guide today, Ms. Feng Ping. Her solid historical knowledge allowed her to vividly and clearly explain the historical stories behind the Shang and Zhou dynasties' ritual systems, diverse cultures, and the custom of "clinking cups and exchanging toasts." The entire three-hour tour was incredibly rich in content.
The overall logic was excellent. The opening provided a general overview of the museum, and the content flowed smoothly between the exhibition halls. Her pacing was superb, bringing the profound Central Plains civilization to life. I felt so fortunate to have met Ms. Feng Ping; she's a perfect museum guide in China!
Henan Museum
139***86October 24, 2026
5.0
The overall environment of Wudang Mountain Scenic Area is excellent. The area is very clean and well-managed, deserving of the 5A rating. The weather wasn't great this time; it was foggy. I'll definitely come back again next time.
Wudang Mountains
ljswg168January 1, 2023
2.0
The water surface is wide, the water is clear, there are green mountains and trees, and the natural scenery is beautiful.
Boshan Lake
有态度的拍拍February 1, 2021
4.0
Tongshan Lake Forest Park is rich in animal and plant resources, which are extremely rare in Henan Province. It is known as the "plant specimen bank" of Henan Province. The forest park integrates mountains, rocks, forests, water and cultural landscapes, and is characterized by "majestic, strange, beautiful, luxuriant and secluded", combining northern style with Jiangnan flavor.
Tongshanhu Forest Park
宝多多_越October 24, 2026
4.0
Kaifeng Prefecture felt like a completely artificial tourist attraction. All the replica ancient buildings were too new, and the exhibits inside were too outdated, especially the clothing in the glass cases of the tallest building – the dust was so thick, and there weren't any bright lights; elderly people were practically feeling their way around inside. The shows weren't particularly interesting either. I much preferred the interactive experience with the NPCs at Qingming Riverside Park. I guess I'll only be interested in that place when I'm older!
Kaifeng Fu (Kaifeng Palace)
ivka89.October 24, 2026
5.0
Shaolin is phenomenal, kung fu performance is amazing. No need to see the bridge it is nothing special we spent 4 km upstairs in one direction. Songshan scenery is amazing too
Songshan Shaolin Scenic Area
