Shaolin Temple And Songyue Temple Pagoda

Zhengzhou , China

Shaolin Temple And Songyue Temple Pagoda

Active

(1 reviews)

7h - 9h

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

Instant_then_manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

1. Pure sightseeing tour; No tourist traps.
2. The best utilization of time; Visiting Shaolin Temple and the Songue Temple Pagoda in 1 day
3. Licensed English Speaking Guides and tour vehicles
4.Free drop-off for visitors at Dengfeng Bus Station，catch the bus to Luoyang

Available options

Shaolin Temple And Songyue Temple Pagoda

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Lunch

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Songshan Shaolin scenery site is world famous tourist attraction and in the first group of 5A national scenery sites. It has unique natural sceneries and rich cultural landscape. Major cultural scenery sites, focusing in an area of 2.18 m2 include Shaolin temple, world’s first temple and origin of Zen and Shaolin Kongfu, China’s most intact and largest existing group of pagodas, China’s earliest stone temple Shaoshique, Kongfu gallery, Bodhidharma Cave, Zhuzuan, Erzuan, Shifang Zen temple, and Ganlutai observation. Natural sceneries are mostly located in Sanhuangzhai village of Shaoshishan Mt., which has experienced the three greatest mountain making movements of Songyang, Zhongyuan and Shaolin Mountains with best representative site at Songshan world geological park. Other representative sites include Monkey Watching Sky, Yunfenghuxiao, sunset and Shaoshi in autumn.

The Shaolin Pagoda Forest, burial site of Shaolin's eminent monks, gets its name from its dense pagodas. Per Buddhist traditions, disciples built pagodas of varying sizes for deceased monks—scale reflecting their achievements, status, knowledge, reputation, and standing—resulting in numerous different-sized pagodas. China's largest existing stupa group, it has 228 stone stupas from seven dynasties (Tang, Five Dynasties, Song, Jin, Yuan, Ming, Qing), plus 3 modern pagodas and 14 stone sculptures. Their shapes, decorations, construction, and carving techniques record architectural styles of their eras, showing stupa art evolution since the Tang and Sino-foreign Buddhist exchanges. Hailed as an "ancient pagoda art museum," it offers tangible materials for researching ancient Chinese architecture, sculpture, and religion.

Songyue Temple Pagoda, in Songyue Temple, is the most significant remaining structure (with Daxiongbaodian, Jialandian, Liuzudian) and of high architectural/tourism value. Built in 520–524 AD (Northern Wei Emperor Xiaoming’s reign), over 1,400 years old, it is China’s oldest existing pagoda and the earliest in Songshan. Integrating geology, geometry, physics and chemistry, it’s a rare ancient architectural relic, listed in 1961 as first-batch national key cultural relics. 40 meters tall with 15 floors, it has underground palace, base, body and top decorations. Its lower half is robust, middle narrow with gentle eaves—sturdy yet light. As China’s first pagoda with parabolic outline, it influenced pagoda architecture for a millennium.

What's not included

Dinner

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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