How to Plan Your Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou

Are you visiting Zhengzhou and looking for a way to learn more about Chinese art and culture? Look no further than a private full-day tour of two Henan Province highlights: the Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes. This tour is an easy and comfortable way to visit these attractions while learning about the birthplace of Chan Buddhism and martial arts and viewing some of the finest existing examples of Chinese Buddhist art.

Overview

Your tour will begin with a pickup from your centrally located Zhengzhou hotel at 8:00 AM. From there, you’ll travel in a comfortable private vehicle to your first destination: the Shaolin Temple. This temple is not only a center of Buddhism, but is also the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu, which has been influential in martial arts across the world. At the temple, you’ll enjoy a simple but delicious lunch and have the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, including the Pagoda Forest and the Dharma Cave. Next, you’ll continue your lesson on Buddhism at the Longmen Grottoes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains over 2,300 caves and niches carved out of the limestone cliffs along the Yi River. Within these caves, you’ll find some of the finest existing examples of Chinese Buddhist art, including thousands of statues and murals. Finally, you’ll return to your private vehicle for a comfortable journey back to your Zhengzhou hotel. This tour includes licensed professional guide services, lunch at the Shaolin Temple, hotel pickup and drop-off, and entrance fees.

Itinerary

Here’s what you can expect on your private day tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou:

Monastero Shaolin (Shaolin Temple)

Your tour will begin with a visit to the Shaolin Temple, where Buddhism and martial arts intersect. Here, low-profile houses blend with the natural surroundings, providing the ideal setting for meditation and physical training. You’ll get to explore the Pagoda Forest, which is made up of hundreds of pagodas and towers that have become a symbol of Chinese culture. The Dharma Cave contains many statues of Buddha, as well as ancient scriptures and calligraphy.

Longmen Grottoes

After lunch at the Shaolin Temple, you’ll travel to the Longmen Grottoes, your second destination of the day. Here, you’ll find over 100,000 Buddhist statues, an incredible feat of artistic creation that spans nearly a millennium. Most of the statues were created during the Northern Wei Dynasty, and they showcase a variety of artistic styles from throughout Chinese history. You’ll be free to explore the caves and niches at your own pace, marveling at the intricate details and symbolism of the artwork.

Additional Information

Here are some important details to keep in mind when planning your private day tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes:

Transfers

Transfers are in a comfortable private vehicle, so you can sit back and relax during your journey.

Entrance Fees

All entrance fees are included in the cost of your tour, so you won’t have to worry about any surprises.

Hotel Transfers

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price. Ensure you are ready in the hotel lobby at the agreed-upon pickup time.

Meals

Lunch at the Shaolin Temple and bottled water are included in the tour price. If you have any dietary restrictions, please let the tour company know in advance.

Book Your Private Day Tour Now

Ready to explore the Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes with a licensed professional guide? Book your private day tour now using the following link: book the tour here. This is an easy and comfortable way to visit these two Henan Province attractions, all while learning more about Chinese art and culture.

FAQ: Zhengzhou City

Zhengzhou is the capital city of the Henan Province in central China. It has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its history, food, and scenic spots. Here are some frequently asked questions about Zhengzhou that will help you prepare for your trip.

1. What is the best time to visit Zhengzhou?

Zhengzhou experiences a temperate continental climate with distinct four seasons. Generally, the best time to visit is from March to May and from September to November when the temperature is mild and the scenery is beautiful. However, if you are interested in experiencing the famous Shaolin Kung Fu, the summer months from June to August would be the best option.

2. How do I get to Zhengzhou?

Zhengzhou has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy to reach. You can take a flight to the Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport or take a train to the Zhengzhou Railway Station. Both the airport and the railway station have good connections to other major cities in China.

3. What are some famous scenic spots in Zhengzhou?

Zhengzhou has a lot of attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some famous scenic spots you should not miss:

3.1. Shaolin Temple

Shaolin Temple is located in Dengfeng, about 100 kilometers west of Zhengzhou. It is the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Shaolin Kung Fu. The temple complex consists of many interesting buildings and artifacts, including the Pagoda Forest, the Dharma Cave, and the Shaolin Martial Art Training Center.

3.2. Zhengzhou Yellow River Scenic Area

The Zhengzhou Yellow River Scenic Area is located on the north bank of the Yellow River. It is a great place to visit if you want to enjoy the natural scenery of Zhengzhou. Here you can see the Yellow River flowing through the mountains, ancient villages, and temples.

3.3. Henan Museum

The Henan Museum is one of the largest museums in China. It has over 130,000 treasures and artifacts on display that showcase the history of Henan Province from prehistoric times to the present day.

4. What are some local dishes that I should try in Zhengzhou?

Zhengzhou has a rich culinary history, and there are many delicious local dishes that you should try. Here are some recommended dishes:

4.1. Water-Boiled Fish

Water-Boiled Fish is a popular dish in Sichuan cuisine and can also be found in Zhengzhou. The fish is boiled in hot and spicy broth and served with vegetables, bean sprouts, and chili oil.

4.2. Scallion Oil Noodles

Scallion Oil Noodles are a famous snack in Zhengzhou, made from noodles topped with a mixture of scallions and oil. It’s simple yet delicious.

4.3. Steamed Stuffed Bun

Steamed Stuffed Buns, or Bao Zi, are a staple food in China. The stuffing could be pork, vegetables, or mushrooms. Zhengzhou-style Bao Zi is famous for its thin skin and a generous filling.

5. What are some popular shopping places in Zhengzhou?

Zhengzhou has a variety of shopping places that cater to every budget and interest. Here are some popular shopping places:

5.1. Erqi Road

Erqi Road is a busy shopping street with many department stores and shops selling clothes, shoes, and cosmetics.

5.2. Ginza Shopping Center

Ginza Shopping Center is a high-end shopping mall that features international luxury brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel.

5.3. Zhengzhou Walking Street

Zhengzhou Walking Street is a pedestrianized street lined with small shops, snack vendors, and souvenir shops. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and buy some unique gifts.

6. How can I travel around Zhengzhou?

Zhengzhou has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses, taxis, and subways. Buses are the most affordable option, with fares starting from 1 RMB. The subway network has two lines that cover major areas of the city, and taxis are readily available throughout the city.

Book Your Tour Now:

Zhengzhou is a fascinating city that offers a lot to explore and discover. Whether you are interested in history, food, or natural scenery, Zhengzhou has something to offer. Plan your trip well in advance and make the most of your visit to this beautiful Chinese city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Zhengzhou

Zhengzhou is a city located in the central part of China that is worth visiting. It offers a unique blend of ancient Chinese culture and modern city life. Here is a guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Zhengzhou.

1. Visit Shaolin Temple

Shaolin Temple is located near Zhengzhou and is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China. Shaolin Temple is not only a spiritual destination but also the birthplace of martial arts with a history of over 1,500 years. You can take a bus or hire a car to Shaolin Temple, which will take about 1.5 hours. The entrance fee is around 250 RMB, which allows you to access the temple and shows. You can watch the Kung Fu show, which is a must-see performance in Shaolin Temple. During the show, you will see performers displaying their incredible Kung Fu skills, such as breaking stones with their heads and bending metal rods with their throats.

2. Explore Henan Museum

Henan Museum is one of the best museums in China, showcasing over 100,000 historical relics. Visitors can explore the history of Henan Province and China through cultural relics, such as pottery, jade, bronze and gold. The museum is located in downtown Zhengzhou and can be easily reached by subway. The museum is free, but visitors need to book a ticket in advance. The museum is closed on Mondays.

3. Enjoy the Scenery of Yellow River Scenic Area

Yellow River is the mother river of China, and the Yellow River Scenic Area in Zhengzhou is the best place to enjoy its beauty. The area covers a vast area of about 200 square kilometers with unique natural beauty, such as hail stones and layered stones. You can take a boat tour to enjoy the scenery or explore the area by foot or bike. The entrance fee is around 100 RMB per person.

4. Taste Local Cuisine

As the capital city of Henan Province, Zhengzhou is famous for its local cuisine, especially its street food. You can find yummy roasted sweet potatoes, fried dumplings, roasted squid, spicy fried chicken and much more in Zhengzhou’s food street. The best-known food street is located near Erqi Square, where you can try different kinds of local food and snacks. It is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine.

5. Stroll Along Zhengzhou’s Ancient City Wall

Zhengzhou’s ancient city wall is a unique and beautiful attraction that is worth visiting. The wall is over 1,800 years old and has a total length of about 14 kilometers. Visitors can stroll along the wall and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the city. The wall is located in the downtown area and is accessible by subway or bus. The entrance fee is around 20 RMB per person.

6. Explore Kaifeng Ancient City

Kaifeng is an ancient city located near Zhengzhou that is worth visiting. It has a history of over 3,000 years and used to be the capital city of Northern Song Dynasty. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history and culture, such as the Millennium City Park, Iron Pagoda and the Kaifeng Fu Mansion. You can take a high-speed train or bus to Kaifeng, which will take about one hour. The entrance fees vary for different attractions.

Book Your Tour Now

Zhengzhou is a city full of attractions and activities for tourists. You can explore the rich culture and history of the city, taste local cuisine, enjoy beautiful scenery and much more. As a tourist, you will never run out of things to do in Zhengzhou.