Kaifeng, China: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Kaifeng, China? If you're planning to go to Kaifeng, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Kaifeng, China

Based on the climate and weather in Kaifeng, China, the best time to go is May. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Kaifeng, China

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Kaifeng, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Kaifeng, China by month

January

If you are traveling to Kaifeng in January, you will notice that it is brisk. Daytime temperatures are in the low 40s F (single digits C). There is frost nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you are traveling to Kaifeng in February, you will notice that it is brisk. Expect it to rain or snow once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about two thirds of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you vacation in Kaifeng during March, you will probably find that it is relatively cool. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain sometimes. There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to pick the correct kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

April in Kaifeng is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you vacation in Kaifeng during May, you may see that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Check that you choose the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you visit Kaifeng during June, you are likely to find that it is really hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Be sure to get the right type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Kaifeng is really hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to get the right kind. A lot of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

In August, Kaifeng is really hot. Temperatures routinely are in the high 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Kaifeng, with several of the days of the month having rain. Additionally, it is breezy.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Kaifeng is warm. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Take care to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Kaifeng is mild. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to get the right type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November for Kaifeng is chilly. Temperatures average in the 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day. There is frost a bit less than half of the time. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Make sure to choose the correct kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December in Kaifeng can be brisk. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 20s F (single digits below 0 C). There is frost most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, China has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Kaifeng. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, C and I. Ensure that you find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

Synagogues often have dress requirements. At The Site of Kaifeng Synagogue:

If you visit the New Kaifeng Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Kaifeng, China

Kaifeng, located in the central Henan province of China, is a historical and cultural hub that offers a plethora of fascinating tourist attractions. The city, which was once the capital of the Northern Song Dynasty, boasts a rich and diverse cultural heritage. From ancient architecture to tasty local cuisine, Kaifeng combines past, present, and future in a mesmerizing blend of old and new.

1. Iron Pagoda

The Iron Pagoda is a 55-meter tall Buddhist pagoda built during the Song Dynasty. It is known for its unique design, which is in the shape of an octagon. It is made of bricks and iron, hence the name "Iron Pagoda". It is considered one of the most spectacular architectural achievements of the Song Dynasty and is a must-visit attraction in Kaifeng.

2. Kaifeng City Wall

The Kaifeng City Wall was built in the Northern Song Dynasty to protect the city from invasion. Among the four ancient city walls of China, it is the only one with a circumference of 9 kilometers still intact. Visitors can climb up the top of the wall and appreciate the rustic charm and stunning views of the city below.

3. Dragon Pavilion Park

The Dragon Pavilion Park is a beautiful park set amidst a picturesque lake and gardens. Established in the Ming Dynasty, the park is known for its magnificent pavilions, pavilion gates, bridges, and arched gates. Offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, it is an ideal place to relax and unwind.

4. Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden

The Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden is a renowned scenic spot that depicts the bustling street life of Kaifeng during the Northern Song Dynasty. It features various architectural styles, shops, restaurants, and bridges, providing a realistic and immersive portrayal of daily life in ancient China.

5. Kaifeng Museum

The Kaifeng Museum is located in the former office of the Northern Song Imperial Palace. The museum showcases the town's ancient relics, including porcelain, bronze, commemorative stamps, and calligraphy works of famous historical figures. It is a perfect place to explore and learn the rich history of Kaifeng.

6. Dragon Pavilion

The Dragon Pavilion situated in the heart of the city is a historic landmark. Built during the Northern Song Dynasty, the pavilion's architectural design features the unique characteristics of ancient Chinese imperial buildings. Today, the pavilion serves as a cultural center where folk art performances, exhibitions, and traditional festivities take place.

7. Henan Museum of Cultural History

Located in Zhengzhou, the capital city of Henan Province, the Henan Museum of Cultural History is a highly engaging museum. The museum showcases ancient artifacts spanning the Neolithic period to the Qing Dynasty. Visitors can learn the culture, history, and civilization of Henan province.

In conclusion, Kaifeng, with its rich history and cultural heritage, is one of China's most fascinating cities. The above mentioned tourist attractions are some of the most significant and popular ones that attract visitors from all over the world, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in China.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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