The 20th anniversary of Zhengzhou-Kaifeng integration in 2025 highlights the dual-city excursions within the "half-hour tourism circle," serving as a vivid snapshot of the high-quality development of Henan. From transportation networks to industrial chains, cultural empowerment to innovation-driven initiatives, the Central Plains are sketching a new development landscape through multidimensional breakthroughs.

Transportation initiatives have paved the way for progress. The Zhengzhou-Kaifeng Intercity Railway offers a 25-minute direct route, while tourism express lines connect major attractions, making cross-city cultural tourism a daily convenience. The opening of the Yellow River Expressway and accelerated construction of Zhengzhou South Station continue to expand the transportation network. Zhongmu's transformation from an agricultural county to the "Top County for Theme Parks" demonstrates how transportation drives resource integration and reflects Henan's innovative "hub + cultural tourism" approach.

Industrial upgrading has solidified the foundation for development. FusionServer leads in national sales, and the super-hard materials cluster has achieved national-level status. Companies like BYD and Yutong are advancing in new energy, aiming for an annual production of 1.4 million new energy vehicles. The simultaneous enhancement of traditional industries and rise of emerging sectors, along with the implementation of "Three Batches" projects, have strengthened the modern industrial system.

Cultural empowerment has revitalized the spiritual core. The sale of 170,000 Zhengzhou-Kaifeng tourism annual passes and vibrant events like the Chrysanthemum Festival and marathon are propelling the ancient Yellow River capital cluster toward world-class tourism destinations. The construction of the Shuanghuaishu Archaeological Site Park and the development of a "Short Drama Creation Capital" harmonize cultural heritage with innovation, infusing development with unique depth.

Improvements in livelihoods reflect the warmth of development. Zhengzhou-Kaifeng integration has made cross-city commutes more convenient than intra-city travel, with 1,459 old residential communities renovated and 1,000 village-level elderly care sites established, ensuring development benefits reach people's lives. From shared cultural tourism to enhanced education and healthcare, Henan is drafting a happiness blueprint with a "people-first" philosophy.

Weaving together transportation networks, industrial chains, cultural veins, and livelihood lines, Zhengzhou and Kaifeng are breaking new ground through integration and painting a new vision with innovation, driving the development of Henan into a new era.

Web editors: Shen Jianqi, Li Siyao