Shaolin Temple (少林寺)
The birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Chinese kung fu — watch monks perform martial arts in the shadow of Songshan Mountain.
Duration
3-4 hours
Cost
¥80 ($11)
Hours
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Booking
No booking needed
Shaolin Temple (少林寺) is one of China's most famous Buddhist temples and the birthplace of both Zen Buddhism (Chan) and Shaolin kung fu. Located at the foot of Songshan Mountain, 90 minutes from Zhengzhou, it has been a center of martial arts and meditation for over 1,500 years.
What to See
Main Hall (大雄宝殿) — The temple's central worship hall, with incense-filled interiors and Buddhist statues.
Forest of Pagodas (塔林) — Over 240 tomb pagodas of monks spanning from the Tang to Qing dynasties. Each pagoda's size and style reflects the monk's status and era.
Martial arts demonstrations — Monks perform kung fu routines several times daily. The demonstrations include bare-hand forms, weapons, and qigong. Included in entry fee.
Cave of the Bodhidharma (达摩洞) — A cave where, according to legend, the founder of Zen Buddhism meditated for nine years. A 30-minute climb from the main temple.
Getting There
- From Zhengzhou: Bus 8 from Zhengzhou Bus Station (¥25/$3.5, 1.5 hours)
- Or take the Zhengzhou-Shaolin Temple direct tourist bus
- High-speed rail to Zhengzhou then transfer to bus
Practical tips
- Arrive early for the morning martial arts demonstration (usually 9:00 or 10:00 AM). The Forest of Pagodas is worth the extra ¥30 if you love history.