Shaolin Monastery (少林寺)
Shaolin is the legendary cradle of kung fu and Chan Buddhism. Ancient temples stand side by side with modern martial arts schools, and the air is filled with the spirit of centuries-old traditions. We will see spectacular monk performances, visit sacred caves and the Pagoda Forest, touch the history of martial arts and feel the unique atmosphere of the place where legends were born.
Shaolin attractions
What awaits you in Shaolin
- Legendary Shaolin Monastery. You will visit the cradle of Chan Buddhism and kung fu, founded in the 5th century, and learn the story of the monk Bodhidharma.
- Pagoda Forest (Talin). 240 stone and brick pagodas – the largest memorial complex of abbots in China.
- Damo Cave. Ascent to the place of the first patriarch's nine‑year meditation.
- Thrilling wushu show. Demonstrations by monks with traditional weapons and breaking hard objects.
- Hall of Thousand Buddhas. Unique floor imprints left by centuries of training and frescoes depicting fighting techniques.
- Village of Shaolin monks. Get to know the daily life and training process of modern followers.
- Vegetarian lunch. Traditional Shaolin cuisine – part of the spiritual practice.
Sample three‑day tour itinerary
*Times may be adjusted depending on train schedules and weather.
| Day | Time | Program stage | Details and transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1\n | 06:30 | Meeting at Shanghai Hongqiao station | Meeting with the guide, boarding the train to Zhengzhou. |
| 07:00–12:00 | Train to Zhengzhou | High‑speed train, tickets in advance (≈450¥). Travel time about 5 hours. | |
| 12:00–14:00 | Transfer to Dengfeng | Bus or taxi to the town at the foot of Shaolin (≈1.5 h), check‑in at hotel, lunch. | |
| Day 2\n | 08:30 | Departure to the monastery | Taxi to the Shaolin entrance (≈20 min). |
| 09:00–12:00 | Sightseeing of the monastery | Hall of Thousand Buddhas, training halls, pagodas. | |
| 13:00–17:00 | Pagoda Forest, wushu show, Damo Cave | Visit Pagoda Forest, monks' performance (starts at 14:30), climb to the cave. | |
| Day 3\n | 09:00–11:00 | Free time / master class | Optional: kung fu lesson or walk around the surroundings. |
| 11:00–20:00 | Return to Shanghai | Transfer to the station, train to Shanghai, evening arrival. |
💡 Important notes:
- Train tickets must be purchased at least 3–4 days in advance.
- Comfortable shoes are a must – many stairs and cobblestones.
- Wushu show is held daily, ticket 50¥.
Price and conditions
Tour price
Train+taxi
3 daysServices of a Russian‑speaking guide, ticket assistance, full‑route accompaniment. Transfer to the station on your own.
By car
ComfortGuide services + minivan rental (up to 6 people) for the whole tour, including transfer from your hotel in Shanghai.
Additional expenses
- Shaolin entrance ticket110¥ (~$16)
- Wushu show50¥ (~$7)
- Cable car80¥ (~$11)
- Shanghai–Zhengzhou train (round trip)~900¥ (~$130)
- Accommodation (2 nights, 3* hotel)~600¥ (~$85)
Duration
Additional services
Frequently asked questions
Important information
The indicated prices are valid at the time of the offer. The cost and availability of train tickets, hotels and guide services may change.
Booking is made after receiving a prepayment. Exchange rate according to the current rate.
If cancelled less than 7 days before the start of the event, payment is non‑refundable.
If trains are cancelled due to weather conditions, we will offer alternative dates or refund the prepayment for guide services.
