Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou

Zhengzhou , China

Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou

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About this experience

Take a private tour to two top attractions in Henan Province of China: Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes.

Shaolin Temple is the birthplace of Martial Arts and Chan Buddhism. Longmen Grottoes are some of the finest examples of Chinese Buddhist art, one of the three most famous Grottoes in China.

A nice lunch in Shaolin Temple, entrance fees and private transfers are all inclusive.

Available options

Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Licensed Professional guide

Bottled water

Lunch at Shaolin Temple

Entrance fee

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Your friendly tour guide and driver will pick you up from your downtown hotel in Zhengzhou and start your exciting day-tour. Transferred by an air-conditioned and comfort private vehicle to your first stop, Shaolin Temple (about 1.5 hours driving), which locates in Dengfeng County, Henan province. It was originally built in 495 in the Northern Wei Dynasty (368-534). 32 years later, an Indian monk named Bodhidharma arrived in Shaolin Monastery and from that time on, the temple was expended gradually with increased monks and greatly boosted reputation. It is reputed to be 'the Number One Temple under Heaven'.

Accompanied by your tour guide, you will visit Shanmen Hall, Hall of Heavenly Kings,Thousand-Buddha Hall, Pagoda Forest and etc, watch a real Kungfu performed by Shaolin monks, enjoy a tasty lunch in the Temple.

Stop 2

Afterwards, heading to the next stop, Longmen Grottoes (another 1.5 hours driving).

A Buddhist cave complex located 13 kilometers south of Luoyang in Henan province, form some of the most significant and exquisite representations of ancient Chinese stone art. The grottoes were excavated and carved with Buddhist subjects over the period from 493 AD to 1127 AD. The Longmen Grottoes refer to the over 1,400 grottoes and caves dispersed over the Longmen Mountain and Xiang Mountain standing across the Yi River, housing no less than 100,000 Buddhist statues, 2,500 tablets and stelae and other religious-related items.

After the tour is finished, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Zhengzhou or Luoyang.

What's not included

Hotel accommodation

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Lunch will be in a vegetarian restaurant in Shaolin Temple. If you don't like vegetarian food, your tour guide will recommend another local restaurant outside of the Temple.

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

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