Kaifeng Government Office
Kaifeng Government Office, also known as the "Song Dynasty Capital Administrative Complex," is a historically significant site located in Kaifeng City, Henan Province. As the capital of the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127 CE), it served as the political and administrative heart of ancient China, housing imperial courts, bureaucratic offices, and cultural institutions. The complex, though partially reconstructed, retains architectural elements from the Song era, including symmetrical layouts, stone carvings, and traditional roof designs. Designated a provincial cultural heritage site, it offers visitors a glimpse into China’s medieval governance and urban planning.
Historical Overview
Established in 960 CE by Emperor Taizu of the Song Dynasty, Kaifeng (then called Bianjing) became one of the world’s most populous cities, with the government office as its core. The complex witnessed pivotal events, including Emperor Huizong’s artistic patronage, the Jurchen invasion in 1127, and Marco Polo’s 13th-century descriptions of its grandeur. In the 1980s, archaeological excavations uncovered foundations of the original administrative halls, leading to partial reconstructions. Today, it combines historical education with cultural exhibitions, showcasing Song Dynasty artifacts and bureaucratic practices.
Structural Layout
The site is divided into three zones:
- Administrative Core: Replicas of the Central Government Office (Zhongshu Sheng) and military headquarters (Shumi Yuan).
- Cultural District: Features the Kaifeng Museum and Song Dynasty Calligraphy Gallery.
- Ceremonial Space: Includes the reconstructed Dragon Pavilion (Longting) and Bell Tower, used for imperial announcements.
Key structures include the Hall of Supreme Harmony (Taihedian), modeled after Beijing’s Forbidden City, and the Stone Carving Gallery, displaying 1,000-year-old relics.
Major Attractions
- Dragon Pavilion: A 12-meter-high wooden structure with dragon motifs, used for emperor-led ceremonies.
- Song Dynasty Bell: A 6-ton bronze bell cast in 1010 CE, still rung daily.
- Bureaucratic Exhibition Hall: Interactive displays on Song-era governance, including wax figures of officials.
- Ancient City Wall: A 1.5km section of the original 10th-century ramparts.
- Calligraphy Gallery: Showcases works by Song scholars like Su Shi and Huang Tingjian.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (1.5–2 hours):
Entrance → Dragon Pavilion → Central Government Office Replica → Song Dynasty Bell → Exit.
Highlights: Ceremonial architecture and bureaucratic history. - Cultural Route (3–4 hours):
Entrance → Calligraphy Gallery → Bureaucratic Exhibition Hall → Ancient City Wall → Kaifeng Museum → Exit.
Highlights: Art, governance, and urban defense insights. - Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
Entrance → Guided Tour (All Zones) → Workshop (Seal Carving Demo) → Traditional Tea House → Exit.
Highlights: In-depth exploration and hands-on activities.
Ticket Purchase
- Online: Book via WeChat mini-program or platforms like Ctrip.
- On-Site: Tickets sold at the entrance; guided tours require reservation.
- Prices:
- Entrance: ¥40 (adults), ¥20 (students/seniors).
- Guided Tour: ¥30 (additional).
- Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and military personnel.
Transportation
- By Subway: Line 1 to Xiangguosi Station (Exit D), then taxi (¥15–20).
- By Bus: Routes 1, 31, or 39 to "Kaifeng Government Office Stop."
- By Taxi: Direct from Kaifeng Railway Station (¥25–30).
- Self-Drive: Navigate to "Kaifeng Government Office Scenic Area" via Jinming Avenue.
Best Time & Tips
- Peak Seasons: April–May (peony festival), September–October (autumn foliage).
- Avoid Crowds: Visit early (8:30 AM opening) or on weekdays.
- Essentials:
- Wear comfortable shoes (uneven stone paths).
- Bring a notebook for calligraphy workshops.
- Photography allowed (no flash in galleries).
- Prohibited: Food, drinks, and large bags.
What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Daniel Dorothea
Canada
Reviewed on April 29,2025
Shopping on Nanjing Road in Shanghai was just amazing! It's truly the "First Commercial Street of China", where tradition and modernity blend perfectly. You can find awesome souvenirs and experience the trendy vibes in cool stores. The neon lights at night are just spectacular, shining bright like Times Square in New York. The food here is incredible too. I had a feast for my taste buds. Shanghai, I'll definitely be back!
Destination(s):
Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2024
Elvis Eva
Canada
Reviewed on June 20,2025
As a solo traveler from Canada, I was nervous about navigating China alone—but this 11-day tour was PERFECT! From hiking the Great Wall at sunrise (Day 3) to gasping at the Terracotta Army (Day 5), every day delivered ‘pinch-me’ moments. The real showstopper? Zhangjiajie’s Avatar Mountains (Day 7)! Our guide made the stone pillars come alive with stories.
Massive thanks for handling all logistics—bullet train tickets, entry passes, car! And the 4-star hotels surprised me.
Destination(s):
Beijing Xian Zhangjiajie Shanghai
Date of
Experience:
June 02,2025
Simon
America
Reviewed on May 29,2025
Our 2-day Zhangjiajie tour was beyond spectacular! As someone who’s visited Beijing and Shanghai for work, this trip revealed China’s wild, magical heart. Day 1 in Zhangjiajie National Forest Park felt like stepping onto Pandora—I’m a huge Avatar fan, and Yuanjiajie’s floating peaks left me breathless. The misty pillars and lush valleys like pure movie magic!
Then came Fenghuang Ancient Town, we eat dinner beside the thundering waterfall. It seems Unreal! The night views of stilt houses glowing over the river were straight from a fairy tale.
For fellow Avatar lovers and adventure seekers: Don’t miss this bucket-list experience! 10/10 would return.
A Well-Traveled Film Buff, May 2025
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
May 08,2025
