Henan is a landlocked province in central China, on the middle Yellow River, that held the capitals of several dynasties. It is home to the Shaolin Temple, the Longmen Grottoes, the Shang dynasty Yin Ruins and Song dynasty Kaifeng, all linked by fast high-speed rail from Zhengzhou.
Best photo spots
Iconic and lesser-known locations worth shooting.
Guoliang Tunnel Windows at Sunrise
The carved windows of the Guoliang Tunnel frame the Taihang cliffs at morning light.
Best time: Around sunrise, 6:00-8:00 AM
Yuntai Tian Waterfall from the Viewing Path
The tall waterfall against red-rock canyon walls, best in high-flow months.
Best time: Morning light, 9:00-11:00 AM
Baligou Canyon Autumn Colour
Red cliffs and autumn foliage across the canyon.
Best time: Early morning and late afternoon
Shaolin Pagoda Forest at Golden Hour
Over 200 brick and stone pagodas of Shaolin abbots on the hillside.
Best time: Late afternoon, 4:00-6:00 PM
Longmen Grottoes Fengxian Buddha at Dusk
The 17 m Vairocana Buddha of the Tang dynasty, a UNESCO site. Admission approx. ¥90 ($13).
Best time: Late afternoon to dusk when the Yi River side is lit
Luoyang Old Town Lijing Gate at Night
The illuminated Lijing Gate and old-town lanes.
Best time: Blue hour and after dark
Kaifeng Iron Pagoda Park
The 13-storey glazed brick pagoda (1049 AD). Admission approx. ¥50 ($7).
Best time: Golden hour and soft morning light
White Horse Temple Courtyards
China's first Buddhist temple, founded in 68 AD, with mature courtyards and pagoda.
Best time: Morning, 8:30-10:30 AM
Yinxu Oracle Bone Site Museum
The Shang dynasty capital site and museum, UNESCO listed. Admission approx. ¥70 ($10).
Best time: Morning light
Red Flag Canal Qingnian Cave
A hand-cut canal on the cliffs of the Taihang, a symbol of 1960s labour.
Best time: Morning and late afternoon
Zhengdong Big Corn Night Skyline
Illuminated skyline over the lake.
Best time: Blue hour and after dark
Jigongshan Sunrise and Cloud Sea
Sunrise and sea of cloud from the summit.
Best time: Pre-dawn to sunrise
Luoyang Wangcheng Park Peony Festival
Peony festival held in April.
Best time: Morning
By subject
Match your shooting interest to Henan's strengths.
Landscape photography
Heritage photography
Urban night photography
Seasonal photography
Best times to shoot
Light, weather, and seasonal considerations.
Photography tips
Make your shots stand out.
Drones are restricted near heritage sites and in scenic areas; check with the site before flying
Tripods are often not permitted inside temple halls
Autumn (October) is the best season for clear air and foliage; the north China plain is hazy in summer
Long queues on public holidays; arrive at opening time for clear frames