Henan – the land of Shaolin kung fu
scroll 525 centimetres long and 25.5 centimetres wide, depicting in detail people of different social standing, busy markets, hardships of urban life, buildings and technological practices of those times. The painting and the whole period of prosperity in Northern Song came to life with the establishment of the Millennium City Park on the west bank of Dragon Pavilion Lake in the heart of Kaifeng.
Not only has this Cultural Theme Park or Grand Cultural Garden come alive through its buildings and other structures but also through the re-enactment of scenes, peculiar to that period, by hundreds of actors.
One of the must-see places in China, the Millennium City Park excites visitors by allowing them to vicariously relive the Song Dynasty.
A well-known feature of the park is the Rainbow Bridge which lies across the Bianhe River. It is one of the Ten Chinese Ancient Bridges as well as the body image of the Millennium City Park. There performances are held at every corner for visitors to enjoy.
Whether it’s the historical stories of Chinese figures such as the renowned Song Dynasty officer, Lord Bao Zheng (Justice Bao), China’s most celebrated general, Yue Fei, or just folk amusement such as the spitting of fire, visitors would find these unique vestiges of ancient China nothing short of amazing and enlightening.
Apart from that, visitors can relive the past in an exciting way by participating in ceremonial activities such as a traditional Chinese wedding.
Henan has never failed to enlighten visitors with the rich history of China and some of its historical figures and their works which include the Memorial Temple of Lord Bao where visitors can learn about the incorruptible government officer and his deeds, the Grand Xiangguo Temple, historically one of the most famous of its kind situated in Central Kiafeng, the White Horse Temple as well as the International Temple Zone.
A visit to Henan will not be complete without trying out the local cuisine. Some of the famous dishes include Kaifeng Steamed Stuffed Buns, Chinese Wild Yams and Carp on Noodles.
Indeed, if there is one mustgo place in China, it is Henan Province. Often regarded as the cradle of Chinese civilisation, Henan plays an important role in the history of China, bringing forth the unique Chinese characteristics and cultures that Chinese people around the world continue to practise today.