With temperatures dropping steadily, staying at home is too boring, but going out means facing the chilly wind. Where’s a good place to go in this kind of weather? Choose the right spot, and the weather or temperature won’t be an issue. Indoor family-friendly outings, outdoor hot spring trips, and you can also start getting your skiing plans ready—pick the travel style that suits you best. □ Reporter Yang Haixia, Oriental Today
Family Trip: Take the Kids to the Aquarium
As the weather gets colder, there are fewer places suitable for kids to play. Why not take them to some indoor venues? Zhengzhou Aquarium and Kaifeng Tokyo Polar Ocean World are both great choices.
Zhengzhou Aquarium has been open since 2003 and has been in operation for over a decade, beloved by children across the province. The first phase of Zhengzhou Aquarium includes a freshwater biology exhibit, coral reef exhibit, marine mammal performance theater, underwater tunnel, ocean folklore exhibit, ocean restaurant, and souvenir mall. Each area offers a unique scene, showcasing over 800 species of fish and marine life from various ocean regions. Visitors can admire tropical freshwater ornamental fish in the rainforest exhibit, observe shallow-water coral in the coral reef exhibit, and collect shells or weave fishing nets in the ocean folklore exhibit. The most exciting part is the 70-meter-long underwater tunnel, where colorful fish swim all around as you walk through. Kids especially love the performing sea lion star Coco and its companions, who show off their math skills and ball-balancing acts, bringing endless joy.
Kaifeng Tokyo Polar Ocean World is a newer aquarium featuring a polar exhibit, cylindrical tank, shark exhibit, underwater tunnel, marine theater, freshwater fish area, jellyfish palace, coral exhibit, interactive zone, science education center, 5D/7D cinema, and Happy Animal Kingdom. Though located indoors, it offers views of underwater worlds and polar glaciers that kids could watch over and over again.
Cozy Getaway: Time for a Hot Spring Soak
When it comes to essential winter activities, soaking in a hot spring is a must. Enjoying the warmth from deep within the earth in the midst of freezing cold lets you fully appreciate the wonders and gifts of nature.
Henan has many hot spring options, such as the well-known Xuchang Yanling Huadu Hot Spring, Jiangnanchun Hot Spring, Xiangdiwan Hot Spring, Yaoshan Fuquan, Nanyang Lotus Hot Spring, Huanggu Bath Hot Spring, and Huangdi Palace Imperial Hot Spring, among others.
Although there are many hot spring resorts, each has its own specialty, so choosing one that suits you is important. For example, Yanling Huadu Hot Spring is known for its high-quality water and beautiful ecology—soaking here is not only a delightful experience but also a journey for the soul. Yaoshan Fuquan integrates Buddhist culture, offering a serene environment for reflection. Nanyang Lotus Hot Spring covers a vast area with plenty of pool options. Huangdi Palace Imperial Hot Spring is a rising star, newly opened and featuring Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian-style pools for a truly unique experience.
Alternative Option: Start Planning Your Ski Trip
Laojun Mountain has already seen snow—how long until it reaches us? Isn’t it time to prepare your skiing itinerary? Comparing locations, distances, and activities, where should you go skiing this year? Henan has quite a few ski resorts, such as Zhengzhou Songshan Ski Resort, Pingdingshan Yaoshan Ski Resort, Luoyang Luanchuan Funiu Mountain Ski Resort, Taohuayu Ski Resort, Wanxianshan Guoliang Ski Resort, Nanyang Laojieling Ski Resort, Dangyangyu Ski Resort, and Wangwushan Ski Resort. This year, Longquan International Ski Resort was newly built southwest of Zhengzhou. Most ski resorts in Henan are within 300 kilometers of Zhengzhou, each with its own unique features. Longquan International and Songshan Ski Resorts are close to downtown Zhengzhou for easy access; Wanxianshan Guoliang Ski Resort offers beautiful scenery while you ski; Luanchuan Funiu Mountain Ski Resort lets you enjoy ice sculptures and experience the thrill of speed skiing...
Skiing is different from other types of travel, especially for first-timers who need to do their homework. Understanding ski equipment, safety precautions, and the slope levels suited to your skill are all important before deciding which resort to visit. Ensuring both safety and enjoyment will help you get the most out of your trip.