Shaolin Temple - Henan's Monastic Heritage
Visitor Fee: The entrance fee to the Shaolin Temple complex was around 150 to 200 CNY (Chinese Yuan) per person for adults. However, please note that ticket prices might change, so it’s advisable to check for the latest information before visiting.
Transportation: The Shaolin Temple is situated on Song Mountain, around 70 km west of Zhengzhou, the capital city of Henan province. To get there, you can:
- Take a domestic flight to Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport (CGO) and then travel by bus or taxi to the Shaolin Temple.
- Take a high-speed train to Zhengzhou East Railway Station and then proceed to the temple by bus or taxi.
- Alternatively, there are buses and direct transportation services available from Zhengzhou to the Shaolin Temple area.
Things to Do: The Shaolin Temple offers visitors a variety of activities and experiences:
- Explore the Temple Complex: The Shaolin Temple itself is a beautiful and historically significant site. Visitors can marvel at the ancient architecture, stunning pagodas, and serene surroundings.
- Witness Kung Fu Performances: Many Kung Fu performances take place within the temple grounds. Shaolin monks demonstrate their impressive martial arts skills and provide insight into the ancient art of Kung Fu.
- Learn Kung Fu: The temple also offers short-term Kung Fu courses for tourists interested in learning the basics of Shaolin Kung Fu. These courses are usually available for varying durations, ranging from a few days to several weeks.
- Visit the Pagoda Forest: The Pagoda Forest is an intriguing collection of ancient stupas and burial mounds of Shaolin monks. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds historical significance.
- Enjoy the Natural Scenery: Song Mountain and the surrounding area boast breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here: People from all over the world visit the Shaolin Temple for several reasons:
- Rich History and Culture: The Shaolin Temple is deeply rooted in Chinese history and Buddhism, attracting visitors interested in cultural heritage and spiritual experiences.
- Martial Arts Tradition: Shaolin Kung Fu’s global popularity draws martial arts enthusiasts who want to witness and learn from the birthplace of this iconic discipline.
- Scenic Beauty: The serene surroundings and picturesque landscapes offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
How Old is This Place: The Shaolin Temple has a long and illustrious history. It was founded in the 5th century during the Northern Wei Dynasty, making it well over 1,500 years old.
Additional Nearby Attractions: When visiting the Shaolin Temple, you can also explore other attractions in the vicinity, such as:
- The Longmen Grottoes: Located in Luoyang, about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car, these are ancient Buddhist cave temples and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The White Horse Temple: Located in Luoyang, this temple is considered the first Buddhist temple in China and is worth a visit for its historical significance.
- Dengfeng City: The nearby city of Dengfeng offers cultural experiences, including the Songyang Academy and the Zhongyue Temple.
List of Activities :
- Temple Sightseeing
- Kung Fu Performances
- Kung Fu Training Courses
- Exploring the Pagoda Forest
- Hiking and Nature Walks in Song Mountain