Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou

Zhengzhou , China

Independent Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou

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(3 reviews)

8h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a comfortable private vehicle operated by a courteous friendly driver from your Zhengzhou city hotel to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes on this private independent tour. You will have the maximum freedom to enjoy historical sites at your own pace. Your driver will take you to the attractions, assistant you with the entrance fee, and waiting for you at the parking lot. There is no factory and shopping stops during the tour. The use of the driver service is 8-10 hours.

Available options

Private Transfer

Your driver will pick you up at 8:00am in your Zhengzhou hotel's lobby by holding your name sign, you also can choose your preferred pick up time and put in the "Special Requirement" when make booking<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Zhengzhou city hotel pickup and drop off

Entrance Fee

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your driver will hold your name sign waiting for you in the lobby of your Zhengzhou hotel or accommodation at prearranged time. Then heading directly to Shaolin Temple, it will take about 1.5 hours. Sit back and enjoy the sceneries along the way.

Your driver will purchase your entrance fee, and waiting for you at the parking lot, after your independent tour of Shaolin Temple finished, please find your driver at where he dropped you off.

Shaolin Temple is the birthplace of Chinese Zen Buddhism and Shaolin Martial Arts. The whole complex can be thought of as three major sights within the compound.

Area One--The Kung Fu Performance

After you enter the complex, you will see the Kung Fu performance hall. If you arrive early in the morning, you’ll see students of all ages practicing outside. The Kung Fu performance amazing and is not to be missed.

Area Two--Shaolin Temple

Shaolin Temple embraces many exciting attractions, such as the Hall of Heavenly Kings (Tianwangdian), the Mahavira Hall (Daxiongbaodian), the Pagoda Forest, the Dharma Cave and the Martial Art Training Center.

Area Three--The Pagoda Forest

The Pagoda Forest is another half-kilometer walk through a wooded path, It is a concentration of tomb pagodas for eminent monks and abbots of the temple. A rough count shows more than 240 tomb pagodas of various sizes from the Tang, Song, Jin, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties (618-1911), making it the biggest pagoda forest in China.

Stop 3

After meet your driver again, heading directly to Longmen Grottoes. Your driver will purchase your ticket, then spend some time to explore the attractions. When your self guided tour finished, you can choose to be transferred back to your hotel in Zhengzhou or finish in Luoyang.
Please note this is only a private transfer service, meal or tour guide are not included. You may have a Chinese speaking driver, but they know exactly where to pick you up and where to drop you off. Guest can use their phone to call translator if need during the ride.

What's not included

Gratuities

Battery bus inside the attractions

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Important notes

• The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
• Each traveler is allowed a maximum of 1 suitcase and 1 carry-on bag. Oversized or excessive luggage (e.g. surfboards, golf clubs or bikes) may have certain restrictions, please inquire with the operator prior to travel to confirm if your excess luggage is acceptable
• The tour is about 10 hours, if you want to extend the tour, please pay 15USD to your driver for each extra hour

About Zhengzhou

Zhengzhou is the capital of Henan Province and a major transportation hub in Northwest China. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and as the birthplace of Henan opera, it offers a blend of ancient and modern attractions. The city is also famous for its delicious street food and the nearby Shaolin Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Top Attractions

Shaolin Temple

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Shaolin Kung Fu. The temple is famous for its rich history, cultural significance, and martial arts traditions.

Historical/Cultural Half day to full day ¥100 (including entrance and performance)

Zhengzhou Henan Museum

One of the largest museums in China, showcasing a vast collection of historical artifacts and cultural relics from Henan Province.

Museum 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Yellow River Scenic Area

A scenic area along the Yellow River, offering beautiful views, historical sites, and recreational activities.

Nature/Historical Half day ¥50 (entrance fee)

Zhengzhou Erqi Memorial Tower

A landmark tower commemorating the workers and soldiers who died during the May 30th Movement in 1925. The tower is a symbol of Zhengzhou and a significant historical site.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Zhengzhou City Wall

A well-preserved ancient city wall dating back to the Tang Dynasty. The wall offers a glimpse into Zhengzhou's rich history and architectural heritage.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bian Bing (Henan Spring Roll)

A thin, crispy crepe made from wheat flour, filled with ingredients like egg, scallions, and hoisin sauce. It is a popular street food snack in Zhengzhou.

Street Food Contains gluten and eggs

Lao Zheng Tou (Old Zheng Head)

A popular street food consisting of a steamed bun filled with minced pork, scallions, and spices. It is named after the city's nickname, 'Zheng.'

Street Food Contains gluten and pork

Lu Rou (Braised Pork)

A slow-cooked pork dish braised in a savory sauce made from soy sauce, sugar, and spices. It is a staple of Henan cuisine and is often served with steamed buns or noodles.

Main Course Contains gluten and pork

Biang Biang Noodles

Hand-pulled noodles known for their thick, chewy texture and bold, spicy flavor. The name 'Biang Biang' comes from the sound made when the noodles are pulled.

Main Course Contains gluten and may contain meat or seafood

Popular Activities

Hiking in Songshan Mountain Exploring the Yellow River Scenic Area Tea tasting at local tea houses Strolling along the Zhengzhou City Wall Visiting the Henan Museum Attending a Henan opera performance Boat rides along the Yellow River Swimming in local pools and water parks

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October)

These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and pleasant weather, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is also less crowded during these periods.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Renminbi (RMB) (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8 (China Standard Time)

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Zhengzhou is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, as with any destination, it is essential to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or deserted areas
• Use reputable taxis and public transport

Getting there

By air

Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport • 37 km from city center

By train

Zhengzhou Railway Station, Zhengzhou East Railway Station

By bus

Zhengzhou Long-Distance Bus Station, Zhengzhou East Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient, clean, and air-conditioned. It is the best way to navigate the city, especially during peak hours.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Erqi District Jinshui District Guancheng District Zhongyuan District

Day trips

Shaolin Temple

70 km from Zhengzhou • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Shaolin Kung Fu. The temple offers a glimpse into China's rich history and cultural heritage.

Songshan Mountain

75 km from Zhengzhou • Full day

A sacred mountain and UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance. The mountain is home to several temples, including the Shaolin Temple.

Gongyi

30 km from Zhengzhou • Half day to full day

A small city near Zhengzhou, known for its scenic areas along the Yellow River and historical sites.

Festivals

Zhengzhou International Peony Festival • April to May (annual) Henan Taishang Festival • September to October (annual) Chinese New Year • January or February (annual, based on the lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Use the metro system for efficient and affordable transportation around the city
Try local street food and snacks for an authentic culinary experience
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Carry a portable fan or umbrella during summer months to stay cool and comfortable