Kaifeng is a city where centuries of history breathe through its streets, temples, and ancient architecture. Unlike more commercialized Chinese destinations, Kaifeng offers authentic, hands-on experiences that connect you directly with its past. We particularly love the private city tour for its personalized touch and the chance to uncover secrets with a local guide, as well as the Song Dynasty banquet for a taste of imperial culture. These tours do more than just show you sights; they immerse you in Kaifeng’s stories, flavors, and traditions. Whether you’re interested in history, cuisine, or art, this city offers a range of experiences that make for memorable moments.
If you’re planning your trip, this guide highlights four top options—each with a unique focus—so you can pick the one that best fits your interests, budget, and schedule. From exploring ancient walls and pagodas to enjoying traditional performances, these tours promise an in-depth look at Kaifeng’s character and charm.
Quick Overview
Below you’ll find a summary of the best tours & experiences in Kaifeng. We’ve included a private city exploration, a comprehensive heritage day, a traditional Song Dynasty banquet, and a full-day tour that even extends to Beijing’s famous sites. Each offers a different way to experience Kaifeng’s culture and history, with options for personalized guidance, hands-on crafts, and immersive performances. For more details, click the links to each experience.
- Zhengzhou: Kaifeng Top Sites, Zero Hassle Must-See City Tour
- Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: Museum, Incense Craft and Song Legacy
- Kaifeng Imperial Song Banquet
- All-Inclusive Private Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall & Forbidden City
1. Zhengzhou: Kaifeng Top Sites, Zero Hassle Must-See City Tour
This tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Kaifeng’s highlights with a private guide who personalizes the experience to your interests. For around $222 per person, you get to wander through Song-style Millennium Park, where traditional architecture and tranquil gardens evoke the dynasty’s grandeur. You’ll also explore the ancient City Wall and marvel at the Iron Pagoda, which dates back to the Northern Song period.
What makes this tour stand out is the personal touch—your guide shares insider secrets and stories that you won’t find in guidebooks. The tour includes a delicious steamed dumplings lunch, adding a culinary highlight to your visit. With flexible scheduling and a focus on uncovering Kaifeng’s lesser-known stories, it’s ideal for travelers who want a tailored, no-fuss experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for first-timers or those pressed for time, this tour balances sightseeing with storytelling, making it a rich, hassle-free introduction to Kaifeng.
2. Zhengzhou to Kaifeng: Museum, Incense Craft and Song Legacy
This approximately 10-hour journey dives deep into Kaifeng’s Song Dynasty roots. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts eager to understand the city’s ancient role as a capital. The tour begins at the Kaifeng Museum, where you’ll see relics from the Song era, including shipwreck artifacts and ancient city models. It’s a fascinating look at the city’s past, especially for those interested in maritime trade and urban development.
Next, you’ll participate in a hands-on workshop crafting solid perfume or incense seals, which brings cultural traditions into your own hands. Afterward, you’ll explore Gulou’s bustling street markets, tasting local street foods, and walking through authentic alleys and historic architecture. A visit to the Qingming Riverside theme park offers a living picture of Song Dynasty life, with performances and displays that recreate the era.
This tour’s appeal lies in its interactive workshops and immersive environment, making history tangible. It’s best suited for travelers wanting a full-day, cultural deep dive.
Bottom line: For those who enjoy combining museum visits with craft-making and street-food sampling, this tour offers a well-rounded and engaging experience.
3. Kaifeng Imperial Song Banquet
For a dinner experience that transports you back to the Northern Song Dynasty, this three-hour banquet is a treat. You’ll feast on authentic recipes prepared according to ancient culinary techniques, served in a setting that echoes imperial dining halls. Alongside the meal, you’ll enjoy traditional performances that bring Song stories and music to life.
What makes this banquet unique is the blend of culinary history and entertainment. The performers’ costumes and music evoke the cultural sophistication of Kaifeng’s past, making it more than just dinner. After the meal, you’ll receive a ticket to the Qifeng Ancient Garden, giving you a chance to continue exploring local history on your own.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience combined with a memorable meal. The focus on traditional recipes and performances makes it a standout choice.
Bottom line: Perfect for history lovers craving authentic cuisine and cultural performances, this banquet offers a flavorful glimpse into the Song Dynasty’s elegance.
4. All-Inclusive Private Tour: Mutianyu Great Wall & Forbidden City
Although primarily a Beijing tour, this private experience includes iconic Chinese sights with a logistical twist—priority access and guided tours of the Forbidden City and the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. For $249 per person, it offers a comprehensive day that combines Tiananmen Square, a guided tour of the Forbidden City, and a hiking adventure at the Great Wall.
The highlight is the skip-the-line tickets, allowing more time for exploring rather than waiting in queues. You can choose the cable car or sled ride at the Great Wall for added fun. The tour is perfect for travelers with limited time who want to see China’s most famous landmarks in one day, with expert guidance to enhance understanding.
Although not in Kaifeng, this tour demonstrates the value of private, all-inclusive experiences for those looking to maximize their time and avoid hassles during their travels in China.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers with limited days and a desire for convenience, this tour packs Beijing’s essentials with expert guidance and quick access.
How to Choose
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, budget, and how deep you want your experience to be. If Kaifeng’s architecture and local stories appeal most, the Zhengzhou: Kaifeng Top Sites, Zero Hassle Must-See City Tour offers a personalized approach. For those interested in Song Dynasty artifacts and crafts, the Museum and Heritage Workshop provides a full day of engaging activities.
History lovers who want to live the past through food and performances should consider the Imperial Song Banquet. If your schedule is tight but you still want to see China’s top landmarks, the Beijing-based Mutianyu Great Wall & Forbidden City tour offers a seamless, guided experience.
Consider your interests: for culture with a personal touch, pick the private tour; for hands-on activities, choose the museum and craftsmanship; and for a special evening, the banquet is ideal. Booking early is wise, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure spots on these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
Kaifeng’s tours provide a wide spectrum of ways to connect with the city’s history and culture. Whether you prefer a tailored private exploration, a deep dive into Song Dynasty art and crafts, or a traditional banquet that captures the elegance of an imperial era, there’s an experience waiting for you. For travelers with limited time, the private city tour offers a hassle-free way to see key sights. History enthusiasts will appreciate the museum and craft workshop, while those craving cultural entertainment will find the banquet unforgettable.
No matter which experience you choose, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable journeys—Kaifeng’s treasures are best enjoyed without the rush.