Spring Outing Season: 8-Day Comprehensive Tour of Henan from Chongqing - Shaolin Temple, Longmen Grottoes, Hongqi Canal, Laojun Mountain

Welcome to the enchanting city of Zhengzhou, where your journey into the heart of Henan's rich cultural heritage begins. This morning, we will greet you with a warm reception and set off on a scenic drive to the legendary city of Dengfeng.

Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the spiritual and martial legacy of the Shaolin Temple, the cradle of Chinese Zen Buddhism and the birthplace of Shaolin martial arts. The temple has also been the iconic backdrop for the renowned film "Shaolin Temple," further cementing its place in history.

After a fulfilling lunch, we will continue our cultural exploration by heading to the ancient city of Luoyang. Here, marvel at the Longmen Grottoes, a treasure trove of Chinese cave art, housing over 100,000 statues and more than 2,300 niches, each telling a story of the past.

As the day unfolds, we will take you to the ancient ferry crossing of Luoyi, where the Luoyi Ancient City brings to life the grandeur of Luoyang's ancient charm. This cultural heritage street is a testament to the city's rich history and offers a vibrant experience that combines sightseeing, entertainment, dining, and accommodation in a comprehensive cultural tourism park.

Alternatively, for those captivated by the beauty of nature, a visit to the Luoyang Peony Garden awaits, where you can witness the majestic allure of the peony, the king of flowers, as it blooms and captivates the capital city.

As the day draws to a close, indulge in the flavors of the imperial capital with a variety of local delicacies at your leisure. After a day filled with wonder and discovery, retire to the comfort of your hotel, ready to embrace the next chapter of your Henan adventure.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the 5A-rated Laojun Mountain Scenic Area, a sanctuary of Taoist culture. Marvel at the ancient and charming Taoist temples and the world's tallest bronze statue of Laozi, the revered philosopher. Laojun Mountain is also recognized as a National Geological Park and National Forest Park.

After a sumptuous lunch, board an imported Austrian high-speed cable car to reach the Zhongtianmen, where you can ascend 518 steps along the Shengcai Path or stroll along the shaded walkway. Continue your journey to explore the Ten-Mile Gallery, a breathtaking landscape where each step reveals a new scene, transforming with every movement, as picturesque as a painting, hence the name "Ten-Mile Gallery."

After a satisfying dinner, retire to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the globally renowned Yuntai Mountain, one of the first batch of World Geo-Parks. Immerse yourself in the essence of nature's beauty at the Hongshi Gorge, acclaimed as the most extraordinary gorge in China, where you'll marvel at the unique stones and cascading waterfalls unlike any other.

Following a sumptuous lunch, proceed to explore the enchanting Tanfu Gorge, where you'll encounter the Slimming Stone, Lover's Waterfall, the distinctive "Y" shaped waterfall, and the majestic Dragon and Phoenix Wall, each a spectacle of nature's artistry.

Next, venture into the Quanfu Gorge, home to the Five Elders Peak and the Whispering Spring, among other breathtaking sights. Be sure not to miss the grand finale of the day - the Yuntai Skyfall, the largest waterfall in the country, a majestic display of nature's power and grace.

Conclude your day with a delectable dinner, followed by a comfortable night's stay at a carefully selected hotel, ensuring a restful retreat after a day filled with awe-inspiring experiences.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the National AAAA-rated scenic area and National Geopark, the renowned summer retreat, leisure paradise, and film shooting location, **Wanxian Mountain and Guoliang Village**. Board the scenic area bus to traverse the "world's most perilous and unique" cliff-hanging road, also known as the **Guoliang Tunnel**. This remarkable cliff corridor was hand-carved by the entire village of Guoliang over a span of 5 years without the aid of any mechanical tools.

Upon arrival, discover the village of **Guoliang** nestled deep within the Taihang Mountains, perched on a cliff over 1700 meters above sea level. The village's dramatic terrain and breathtaking scenery are renowned for its extraordinary waterscapes and cliff canyons, earning it the moniker "Pearl of the Taihang".

Next, explore the tranquil mountain village of **Nanping**. From a tourist's perspective, Nanping is a scenic spot; from a village governance perspective, it is a well-organized administrative village. After a day of exploration, retire to the hotel for a restful night's stay.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to one of China's most beautiful canyons, the 5A-rated Taihang Grand Canyon. Explore the enchanting Peach Blossom Valley, where peach blossoms bloom even in the coldest of winters, and marvel at the breathtaking views of Feilong Gorge, Huanglong Pool, Jiulian Waterfall, Hanzhu, Erlong Xi Zhu, and the Taihang Ice Mountain.

Next, venture to the ethereal Taihang Sky Road, where the azure sky and white clouds envelop the cliffs, and stone houses with lush fruit trees and autumn crops create a harmonious blend of nature and human habitation.

After a lunch break at your leisure, proceed to the 5A-rated Hongqi Canal, an engineering marvel and one of the world's eight wonders, known as the "Man-made River." Visit the water distribution hub, Fen Shui Yuan, and then explore the Youth Cave, a crucial part of the main canal, where you can learn about the construction process of the Hongqi Canal through an exhibition.

Conclude your day with a sumptuous dinner before retiring to your hotel for a restful night.

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a journey to Kaifeng, the ancient capital of seven dynasties. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Northern Song Dynasty at the prestigious 4A-rated Kaifeng Government Office, where you can witness the welcoming ceremony of Bao Zheng, a legendary judge, and enjoy the enchanting performances of Song Dynasty music and dance, gaining insights into the official culture of the era.

Next, explore the charming Xiaosong City, where the entire business district is dominated by wooden ancient-style architecture. The winding corridors, flowing streams, pavilions, and the melodious traditional opera performances on the stage transport you back to the simple yet elegant Northern Song period.

Finally, continue your trip to Zhengzhou, Henan, and board the train to return to your cozy home, carrying with you the memories of a truly enriching and culturally immersive experience.

Welcome back to the starting point of your journey today! For our esteemed high-speed train passengers, we will arrange for your departure according to your train schedule, ensuring a smooth and comfortable return to the warmth of your home.