For a culture-focused trip to Puyang, it is worth exploring the themes found across the wider area: they range from archaeological remains and early state history to old-town architecture, acrobatics and traditional crafts. The wider Puyang area lies in the northeast of Henan Province, on the lower reaches of the Yellow River. When looking for a hotel, it helps to start by deciding what interests you most: would you like to focus mainly on early history, architectural styles or performing arts? This choice can help structure the rest of your travel planning.
Qicheng: Finds spanning many eras
The above-ground remains of the Qicheng Ruins in the wider Puyang area have a perimeter of 1,520 meters and cover an area of 1,440 square meters. Underground, the remains preserve relics from various periods, from the Yangshao culture of more than 6,000 years ago to the Han Dynasty. Qicheng, also known as Longkui City, was an important city of the State of Wei during the Spring and Autumn period. The earliest finds therefore date from long before Qicheng’s later political significance.
Acrobatics and crafts in the wider Puyang area
Puyang’s acrobatics have a long history: they originated during the Spring and Autumn period, flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties, and continued to develop in modern times. In the broader regional context, Puyang is known as a “national historical and cultural city” and the “Home of Chinese Acrobatics.” Traditional crafts in the wider area include black pottery and wheat-straw patchwork; both are known throughout China. The Puyang production “水秀” used a water screen, along with gymnastics, diving, magic and dance. Performances took place underwater, on the water’s surface and in the air.
Old town and cultural sites across the wider area
In the wider Puyang area, Si Pailou, also known as Zhong Xin Ge, stands in the center of Puyang’s old town. The structure was first built during the Ming Dynasty. Four streets there feature numerous buildings and shops in the style of the Ming and Qing dynasties; the area is suitable for shopping and sightseeing. Unlike the archaeological remains, the focus here is on the streetscape and historic buildings.
The Cangjie Mausoleum consists of the Cangjie Tomb, the Cangjie Temple and stone inscriptions. The cultural and scenic area of the Qicheng Ruins also includes a historical exhibition hall and Longgong. Kongzi Houguan is considered to be the place where Confucius lived in the State of Wei for ten years.
Choose accommodation based on your planned destinations
Your choice of specific destinations is key when selecting a hotel. Check the hotel’s location in relation to your planned itinerary before deciding where to stay.
Discover more destinations: Xuchang, Luohe, Jiaozuo, Xinxiang, Luoyang, Kaifeng, Pingdingshan, Anyang.
Return to the main travel overview: Henan.
