Shaolin Temple
Number one temple, birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Shaolin kungfu. Built in Northern Wei, 1500+ years old. Pagoda Forest has 243 tomb pagodas.
Overview
Zhengzhou is the 'heart of China's railway' where Jingguang and Longhai lines cross. Shaolin Temple, birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Shaolin kungfu, gained global fame from the 1982 film. Henan Museum houses national treasures like Jiahu bone flutes. Zhengzhou is the Yellow Emperor's hometown, hosting grand ancestor worship ceremonies each spring. Zhengzhou stewed noodles and spicy soup are Henan food icons.
Key Facts
Area7,587 km²
Population1,283万
LanguageZhongyuan Mandarin
Best timeApr-May & Sep-Oct
Top Attractions
Henan Museum
One of China's three great museums with 170,000+ artifacts. Jiahu bone flute is the treasure.
Mount Song
Central of Five Sacred Mountains, World Geopark. Songyang Academy is one of China's four great academies.
Yellow River Scenic Area
View the majestic Yellow River, giant Yan Huang Emperors sculpture on the bank.
Food & Snacks
Zhengzhou Stewed Noodles
Hand-pulled noodles in lamb bone broth with glass noodles and kelp. Heji and Xiaoji are famous shops.
Spicy Hu La Soup
Classic Zhengzhou breakfast, spicy pepper soup with beef and glass noodles. Best with fried dough stick.
Braised Pancake
Ge Family's specialty, pancake strips braised with bean sprouts and shredded pork.
Festivals & Events
Yellow Emperor Worship Ceremony — 3rd day of 3rd lunar month (Apr-May)
World & Intangible Heritage
- Historic Monuments of Dengfeng (2010) — UNESCO listed 2010, includes Shaolin Temple, Astronomical Observatory, Songyang Academy.
- Shaolin Kungfu (2006) — Shaolin martial arts with 1500+ years of history, national intangible heritage since 2006.
Practical Tips
Shaolin Temple Tips
Arrive before 8am to avoid tour groups. Kungfu show: 10:30, 15:30.
Zhengzhou East Station is Huge
Zhengzhou East is among China's largest HSR stations, allow extra time for transfers
Hu La Soup is Spicy
Hu La Soup is peppery, ask for mild version if sensitive