Things to do in Dengfeng

Dengfeng · 11.6km from downtown

17.7k reviews

It is said that "all martial arts originate fromShaolinNot only Chinese people who grew up deeply influenced by Shaolin kung fu, but also many international friends visiting Henan will go to see Shaolin temple. It is not only a sacred place for martial arts worldwide, but also the ancestral temple of Zen Buddhism. Striking some classic martial arts poses for photos at Shaolin temple makes the swords and shadows of the martial world seem to flash before your eyes. AboutShaolin TempleTwo keywords 1. The founder of Zen Buddhism The Shaolin Temple is a sacred Buddhist site in China and the ancestral temple of Chan Buddhism. In 527 AD, the renowned Indian monk Bodhidharma (known as the founder of Zen) traveled by sea to southern China, crossed the Yangtze River northward into the Central Plains, and arrived at Shaolin. He meditated and taught dharma in the mountains behind the Shaolin Temple, first advocating the Chan teaching of "mind-to-mind transmission," thereby establishing the temple's revered status as the ancestral home of Chan Buddhism. Nowadays, many visitors come to Shaolin Temple to pray for blessings and peace. The origin of martial arts After the "Thirteen monks with staffs rescued Li Shimin" incident in the early Tang Dynasty, Shaolin Temple became renowned worldwide for its exquisite "Shaolin Kung Fu," and since thenShaolinMonks practicing martial arts has become a common tradition passed down through generations. The Shaolin Temple is the birthplace of Shaolin kung fu, andShaolinThe pai school is a martial arts sect with a wide influence, long history, and numerous boxing styles in the wulin (martial arts world). Since ancient times, it has been regarded as "the foremost martial arts sect in the world" and the supreme authority of martial arts by Chinese people. The Shaolin Temple scenic area - pagoda forest is the burial ground of Shaolin Temple's successive abbots, serene and solemn. You might even catch glimpses of the movie "Shaolin Temple" here. Travel tips What to do? How long to stay? Recommended self-guided tour activities: Half-day tour:Shaolin Temple- Pagoda forest - Chuzu nunnery - Damo cave - Songshan Shaolin scenic area -Songshan Shaolin scenic area - Shaolin temple martial arts hallPerformance The Shaolin Temple complex mainly consists of three parts: the Changzhu Yuan Pagoda Forest, the Chuzu Nunnery, and the Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave. Most visitors traveling to Shaolin Temple from Luoyang or Zhengzhou choose this route. The layout of Shaolin Temple is typical of Han Chinese Buddhist temples, featuring central axis symmetry. After entering the mountain gate, you can walk straight ahead. The temple is not large, and the visit can be completed within an hour. The Shaolin Temple scenic area - pagoda forest is located approx. 400 m west of Shaolin Temple, serving as the burial ground for the temple's eminent monks throughout history. As the Buddhist saying goes: "Saving one life is better than building a seven-story pagoda." Here, you can learn about the life stories of Shaolin Temple's eminent monks across different dynasties. The Chuzu Temple and Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave are also near the Shaolin Temple, accessible by walking. The Chuzu Temple was built by people of the Song Dynasty to commemorate Bodhidharma's wall-gazing meditation, while the Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave is the very place where Patriarch Bodhidharma meditated facing a wall for nine years. 1-day tour:Shaolin Temple-Tallinn-Sanhuangzhai In the morning, follow the half-day tour itinerary to visit Shaolin Temple first, then proceed to the Shaolin Temple attraction - Pagoda Forest. The location is approx. 5 min walking distance from the Shaolin Temple attraction - Pagoda Forest.Shaolin cablewayAfter taking the cable car to Sanhuangzhai station, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the destination on foot.Sanhuangzhai scenic areaPortal. ActivitiesSanhuangzhai scenic areaIt takes at least 3-4 hours to explore the attraction, which features many unique geological views. The Sanhuangzhai cliffside plank walk is a must-see. Walking along the cliffside path with towering cliffs on one side and a sheer drop on the other is both a physical and mental challenge. 2-day tour:Shaolin Temple- Songyang scenic area - Zhongyue scenic area Shaolin Temple andSongyang academy, Mount SongLocated in Dengfeng, visitors with ample time can purchase a combo ticket for all three sites and explore them over two days. On the first day, visitShaolin scenic areaIn the evening, watch the live performance of "Zen Shaolin Music Ceremony", and the next day, head to Songyang, which is far from downtown Dengfeng.Zhongyue scenic area. Where can I see authentic Shaolin kung fu? Nowadays, it is difficult for ordinary visitors to witness the martial arts training of Shaolin monks at Shaolin temple. However, visitors can use the Shaolin temple combo ticket to watch the Shaolin kung fu performance at the Shaolin martial arts hall in Songshan Shaolin scenic area, approx. 700 m east of Shaolin temple. Performance time: The performance time at Songshan Shaolin scenic area - Shaolin temple martial arts hall is subject to the on-site announcement. Each performance lasts 30 minutes. The cost is included in the admission ticket. Where is a good place to stay?There are some farmhouse inns and guesthouses around Shaolin Temple, but the conditions are average. If you're not in a hurry, it's not recommended to stay here. If you need to stay overnight, Dengfeng city center is a good choice, as it offers convenient access to the three major attractions of Songshan Mountain. Shaolin TempleIs vegetarian food available?Since you're visiting Shaolin Temple, don't miss the vegetarian cuisine. The vegetarian restaurant inside Shaolin Temple is called "Huanxidi" and is worth trying. Shaolin story The most stubborn holdout in history: When it comes to stubborn holdouts, they didn't just appear in modern times. As early as the Tang dynasty, the Shaolin Temple emerged as such a case. Emperor Li Yuan of Tang issued an order for its demolition but failed. When Li Shimin came to power, not only was the Shaolin Temple spared from punishment, but it also received generous rewards. Compared to today's holdouts, the Shaolin Temple can be called the most legendary stubborn holdout in history. The origin of the matter was an imperial edict issued by Li Yuan, ordering the demolition of all temples within Henan province, including the Shaolin Temple. After receiving the imperial decree, hundreds of monks at Shaolin Temple refused to comply, standing united and resolute in collective defiance. Li Yuan had no choice, as the Tang dynasty was newly established and could not afford to gain a reputation for cruelty. He tacitly allowed the temple's "retention" but revoked the 4,000 acres of temple land previously granted by the Prince of Qin. Later, when Li Shimin became emperor, he granted Shaolin Temple an additional 4,000 mu of land, permitted the temple to train monk soldiers, lift the prohibition against killing, and consume alcohol and meat. Inside the temple, there is a stele titled "Emperor Taizong of Tang's decree to the Shaolin Temple abbot," which records this historical event. You may want to see it when visiting the Shaolin Temple.

No. 2 of Global Traveller-Picked Attractions in Zhengzhou

Songshan Scenic Area

7

Dengfeng · 6.4km from downtown

2.3k reviews

Songshan Scenic Area is one of the five famous mountains in China. It is composed of Taishi Mountain and Shaoshi Mountain. This area not only boasts magnificent natural landscapes such as Sanhuangzhai and Junji Peak, but also has a number of historical and cultural landmarks such as the world famous Shaolin Temple; the Songyang Academy, one of China's four major Confucian academies; and the Taoist Zhongyue Temple of the Quanzhen School. All of these locations attract many visitors.

Songyang Academy

5.3

Dengfeng · 3.3km from downtown

1.2k reviews

Songyang Academy stands against the backdrop of the steep peak of Songshan Mountain, facing the Shuangxi River. It is surrounded on both sides by mountains and peaks, with ancient cypresses in and around the academy, forming a beautiful scenic environment. After entering the gate, visitors can walk along the central path and enjoy the Qing Dynasty architectural layout of the academy and the many artefacts within. Of particular note are the Tang Dynasty monuments and to “General Cypresses”. The “Wuhou Gold Scroll” in the library building is also a worthy attraction.

No. 1 of Activities in Zhengzhou

Ginkgo Viewing in Zhengzhou

5.1

Ginkgo trees are planted all over the streets and alleys of Zhengzhou. Whenever the autumn breeze blows, the ginkgo forests in Zhengzhou quietly put on golden costumes, as if they were the exquisite brushstrokes of nature, outlining moving pictures in every corner of the city. From ancient streets to modern parks, from quiet campuses to bustling business districts, ginkgo trees are everywhere. They use golden leaves as pens and autumn wind as ink to write Zhengzhou's unique autumn poems. The ginkgo trees in Zhengzhou have also witnessed the transformation of Zhengzhou from an ancient commercial capital to a modern metropolis, and witnessed the prosperity and prosperity of the Central Plains. Under the ginkgo trees, people can feel the precipitation of years and the weight of history, as if they can hear the echo of history ringing softly in their ears.

China · Zhengzhou

Dengfeng · 2.2km from downtown

Zhongyue Temple

5.1

4.7/5

769 reviews

Zhongyue Temple, formerly known as "Tai Shi Temple", is a place for worshiping the god of Taishi Mountain and was built in the Qin Dynasty. Zhongyue Temple adopts the traditional axis-symmetrical architectural style. Memorial archways, Yaoshen Pavilion, Chongsheng Gate and other buildings are arranged in sequence on the central axis. The main building of the Zhongyue Temple - Junji Hall, is also known as Zhongyue Hall. The letters on the horizontal tablet of the main hall are written by Qing Emperor Xianfeng. In the ceiling of the hall is a caisson, exquisitely carved and gorgeously decorated. There are towering old trees in the scenic area. Among them hundreds are ancient cypresses and many were planted before the Han dynasty. This is also a major feature of the Zhongyue Temple.

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Songshan Shaolin Scenic Area

Sanhuangzhai Scenic Spot

5

Dengfeng · 9.9km from downtown

410 reviews

Sanhuang Village is a natural cottage hanging on the mountainside of Shaoshi Mountain. It is famous for its strange peak, dangerous road, unique stone and beautiful landscapes. It is a rare natural landscape in the north of China. The inner forest is flourishing, with a wide variety of types, complete geological types, ancient rock ages and unique configuration. In a limited range, it can see a variety of geomorphologys of five geologic time scales, such as Proterozoic and Cenozoic, and is called "Natural Geological Museum".

Songshan Shaolin Cableway

4.9

Dengfeng · 11.5km from downtown

51 reviews

The Songshan Shaolin Cable Car is located in the Shaolin Scenic Area of Zhengzhou, Henan Province. Spanning 2,823m with an elevation difference of 453m, this Austrian-made cable car system features 8-person cabins and serves as the primary transport to the Sanhuangzhai scenic area.

No. 8 of Activities in Henan

Wellness & Martial Arts Experiences at Shaolin Temple

Wellness & Martial Arts Experiences at Shaolin Temple

4.7

Immersive Zen martial arts training. Learn basic kung fu from warrior monks and participate in the temple's daily Zen meditation routine. Free from the feel of commercial performances, you can cultivate both movement and stillness within the atmosphere of an ancient temple and gain insight into the core of Shaolin martial arts and spiritual cultivation. This is a rare and meditative experience.

China · Dengfeng

Taishi Mountain

4.6

Dengfeng · 4.3km from downtown

168 reviews

Songshan Mountain has two peaks, Taishi Mountain and Shaoshi Mountain. Taishi is the eastern peak of Songshan Mountain. According to legend, the King of Yu's wife Tushan was born here. There is a temple dedicated to her in the foothills of Taishi Mountain, giving the peak its name. Taishi Mountain is steep and the landscape is verdant with lush green trees. Climbing towards the summit, Shaoshi Mountain rises to the west, the magnificent Yellow River flows to the north and magnificent natural landscape enchants in all directions.

Shaolin Temple Wushu Training Center

4.4

Dengfeng · 11.3km from downtown

146 reviews

The Shaolin Temple Martial Arts Hall is found in the east of Shaolin Temple in Songshan. It is the location for Shaolin Kungfu performances, particularly the 18th martial arts performances at the same time, especially exciting. The Shaolin Temple Martial Arts Hall is a large-scale Shaolin Kungfu performance complex jointly invested by the National Tourism Administration and the Henan Provincial People's Government. It is also a large-scale base for bringing students from overseas and cultivating Shaolin Kungfu professionals. It is a very unique tourist location in the Songshan Scenic Area.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Songshan Scenic Area

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Shaolin Zen Music Ritual

5.4

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Dengfeng · 7.6km from downtown

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6D5N • Zhengzhou + Kaifeng + Luoyang + Unique Henan Land of Dramas + Millennium City Park + Shaolin Temple

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Pure sightseeing with zero shopping, VIP independent private tour, 24-hour complimentary transfers, exclusive branded vehicle, dedicated driver throughout the journey, and 24/7 online butler service. | As the saying goes, the history of Henan spans half the pages of China's past. To walk through three millennia of civilization in six days is truly the most enchanting gateway to understanding China. | Enjoy 24-hour online concierge service, with the empty-leg fee included.

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2D1N • Millennium City Park + Shaolin Temple + Drum Tower Night Market + Longmen Grottoes

Enjoy a premium private tour with a dedicated vehicle and local guide. With seamless Zhengzhou transfers and no forced shopping, you control the pace for ultimate privacy and flexibility. | Unwind in selected 4-diamond hotels that blend modern luxury with local charm, ensuring premium bedding and top-tier comfort to recharge you each night. | Step into history at Millennium City Park, savor authentic bites at Drum Tower Night Market, learn legendary Shaolin Kung Fu, and marvel at the breathtaking Longmen Grottoes.

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Luoyang Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes Day Tour(Optional Group Tour)

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Zhengzhou Departure: Songshan Shaolin Scenic + Martial Arts Hall + Pagoda Forest + Sanhuang Village Group Day Tour

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Luoyang Private Day Tour to Longmen Grottoes & Shaolin Temple

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1-Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple & Songyang Academy from Luoyang

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1-Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple & Songyang Academy from Luoyang

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Songshan Shaolin Scenic Area + Longmen Grottoes 1-day tour | Premium 8/15-person small group + door-to-door pickup and drop-off

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Luoyang Day Trip to Songshan Shaolin Scenic - Visit the Birthplace of Zen Buddhism and the Ancient Temple with a Millennium of History!

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Luoyang Palace Banquet • A Feast Through the Centuries [Yingtianmen Branch] (Immersive Imperial Feast + Audiovisual Extravaganza + Ancient-style Music and Dance)

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Luoyang Tang dynasty palace feast - enjoy 12 exquisite dishes while watching a performance - Yingtian grand banquet

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Luoyang Yanle | Ancient Costume Makeover, 360° Holographic Show & Heluo Royal Banquet

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Luoyang Wu Huang Feast: Immerse in the Splendor of the Wuzhou Era

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Luoyang grand harmony • Yingtian feast (immersive experience of an emperor + palace delicacies)

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Luoyang Empress Wu Feast Dingdingmen | Tang Hanfu, Palace Show & Luoyang Water Banquet

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Luoyang palace banquet show | Immerse in the legendary life of empress Wu Zetian while tasting thirteen imperial dishes from the Tang Dynasty - Emperor Wu feast (Xigong branch)

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Luoyang - Royal noble dining show - Immersive experience - Chinese ancient ethnic dance and music - Specialty cuisine + Hanfu/stage performance - Optional hanfu dressing experience

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Luoyang Tour to Songshan Shaolin Scenic Including 2-Hour Kung Fu Lesson with Master

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Songshan Shaolin Scenic+Longmen Grottoes1-day Tour

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[Departing from Zhengzhou] One-day tour to Songshan Shaolin Scenic Area · Sanhuang Village (Mount Song, the central sacred mountain, and its Zen martial peaks)

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Exclusive Zhengzhou Private Excursion: Shaolin Temple with Kungfu Immersion and Activities

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5D4N • Henan + Xi'an - Shaolin Temple, Longmen Grottoes, White Horse Temple, Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum, Xi'an City Wall

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In just five days, from the "Holy City" of Luoyang to the "Capital City" of Xi'an, you'll experience both excellent value for money and a profound sense of history.Including empty run fee · Select 4-star hotels with high ratings throughout the journey. They are conveniently located and ensure a deep sleep. · Different combinations of family, friends, or teams all have their own dedicated vehicles. The space is flexible and can be adjusted as needed,Including empty run fee

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6D5N • Shaanxi + Henan+Terracotta Warriors+Longmen Grottoes+Shaolin Temple

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6D5N • Zhengzhou + Kaifeng + Luoyang + Unique Henan Land of Dramas + Millennium City Park + Shaolin Temple

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5D4N • Tour Henan's Four Great Ancient Capitals and Unveil the Cliff-Hanging Road of Wanxian and the Yuntai Waterscape

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Official signature tours with top-rated guides, great value, and 24/7 concierge service. · Visit cliff-hanging road, Film Village, Qingming Park, Longmen Caves & Yuntai Mt. · Enjoy local snacks and wholesome farmhouse food from two ancient capitals in Henan.

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Dengfeng Today's weatherOvercast 7-17℃

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Fuxi Mountain Tourist Area

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