Tahe

Luohe is an underrated small food city. Not only is it home to food giants such as Shuanghui and Weilong, it is also the hometown of Xu Shen, the founding figure of Chinese character studies. Prices here are friendly and the pace is relaxed, making it perfect for a light weekend trip centered on walking and eating. Here is a detailed 3-day, 2-night guide for you:

3-Day, 2-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: In the morning, stroll through the Shali River Scenic Area to take in the feel of this waterside city. In the afternoon, visit the Luohe Museum to learn about the city’s food industry and history. In the evening, head to Wenhua Road Night Market, which has relocated to the commercial district, to try all kinds of street snacks.
• Day 2: In the morning, visit Xu Shen Cultural Park to explore Chinese character culture. In the afternoon, go to the Nanjie Village Scenic Area to experience the atmosphere of its red-themed collective economy. In the evening, try Houji pork elbow or the local clay-pot stewed noodles in the city center.
• Day 3: In the morning, choose between the Jiahu Site Museum, for a look into ancient civilization, or Shenzhou Bird Park, which is good for family fun. In the afternoon, buy local specialties at a morning market or old street in the city before heading home.

Must-Visit Attractions

• Xu Shen Cultural Park: A national 4A-rated scenic area and a theme park commemorating Xu Shen, the founding figure of Chinese character studies. The park has a beautiful setting and systematically presents the evolution of Chinese characters as well as the cultural depth of *Shuowen Jiezi*. It is ideal for visitors who enjoy culture and traditional-style architecture. Adult ticket: 30 yuan.
• Shali River Scenic Area: A greenway park built along both banks of the Sha River and Li River, with clear water and shaded trees. There is no need to check in at any specific spot; just take an evening walk by the riverside and enjoy the breeze, experiencing the relaxed charm of Luohe as a “water city.” Open all day and free of charge.
• Nanjie Village: A nationally famous collective-economy village that preserves a strong red-culture character. The village has orderly architecture, and visitors can tour the red culture area and tropical botanical garden, as well as experience the collective dining hall. Suitable for family educational trips and visits with older relatives.
• Shenzhou Bird Park: A large theme park built on the former Kaiyuan Forest Park, home to more than 160 species of rare birds. The park features bird performances and dozens of large amusement facilities. In summer, there is also a water park and live traditional-style performances, making it especially suitable for families with children. Adult ticket: 50 yuan.
• Jiahu Site Museum: A place to explore an ancient civilization from more than 8,000 years ago. It is one of the birthplaces of the world’s earliest musical civilization and brewing civilization, with a rich collection of cultural relics and extremely high historical value.
• Luowan Ancient Town: Focused on nighttime cultural tourism experiences, with brilliant lights after dark, various folk performances, and food stalls. Good for an evening stroll and photos. Free admission.

Must-Try Food Guide

Practical Travel Tips

• Transportation: By high-speed rail, arrive at “Luohe West Railway Station”; the trip from Zhengzhou East to Luohe West takes about 39 minutes. Within the city, taxis or electric scooters are the most convenient. For nearby attractions such as Nanjie Village, driving is recommended.
• Where to Stay: It is recommended to stay near Changjian Plaza on Renmin Road or around the city center, where there are plenty of food options and convenient transportation. Budget hotels cost around 150-200 yuan per night.
• Pitfall Reminders: Wenhua Road Night Market has already relocated, so remember to navigate to “Commercial District Night Market” before going. When drinking hulatang, you can stir it with a wooden spoon, but do not use the porcelain soup spoon for stirring. Prices in Luohe are very low; breakfast for 5-10 yuan per person is enough to leave you very satisfied.