All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou

Zhengzhou , China

All Inclusive Private Day Tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou

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(3 reviews)

8h - 10h

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on a private day tour to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes from Zhengzhou, a perfect blend of martial arts legacy and ancient Buddhist art. Watch a breathtaking kung fu performance with masterful martial arts moves, and explore the profound history and culture of Shaolin Temple alongside a knowledgeable English-speaking guide—who will deliver in-depth insights and unravel the fascinating stories behind every landmark, including China’s largest pagoda forest. Then visit the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site of Longmen Grottoes, where thousands of exquisitely carved Buddhist statues adorn the dramatic limestone cliffs, with your guide’s vivid commentary bringing these ancient artworks to life. This exclusive private tour includes a delicious local lunch, all entrance fees, a professional English-speaking guide and round-trip private transfer.

Available options

Private Tour

Your English speaking guide will meet you in your hotel's lobby at 8:30am<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Entrance fee

Private tour

Professional guide

Bottled water

Lunch

Transport by private vehicle + Hotel pickup and drop-off (For hotels in Zhengzhou city)

Fuel surcharge

Detailed itinerary

In the morning, your professional English-speaking guide and private driver will pick you up promptly from your Zhengzhou hotel. Board a private air-conditioned vehicle for an approximately 1.5-hour drive to Shaolin Temple, where your guide will share in-depth background—its over 1,500-year history as the birthplace of Chinese kung fu and cradle of Zen Buddhism.

Stop 2

Upon arrival, your guide will take you to the kung fu performance venue at the optimal time. Witness a breathtaking live show featuring precise fists, agile kicks, and impressive weapon routines—authentic Shaolin martial arts at its finest, showcasing the monks’ years of dedication and the seamless blend of physical strength and Zen philosophy. After the show, your guide will lead you into the ancient temple complex, where you’ll wander halls adorned with vivid traditional murals and sacred artifacts, breathing in the serene atmosphere of this millennia-old spiritual haven.

Next, explore China’s largest pagoda forest behind the temple with your guide. There are more than 240 tomb pagodas of various sizes from the Tang, Song, Jin, Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties (618-1911), making it the biggest pagoda forest in China.
Wander among over 240 stone pagodas of varying heights and styles—final resting places of eminent Shaolin monks—while your guide shares their stories, explaining how each pagoda’s size and carvings reflect the monk’s status and era, highlighting their unique architectural and cultural value.
After exploring Shaolin Temple and the pagoda forest, enjoy a delicious authentic local lunch to refuel for the afternoon’s journey.

Stop 4

In the afternoon, take a 1-hour private drive to Longmen Grottoes, a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 1,400 years of history and exquisite ancient Buddhist stone carvings. Along the scenic Yi River path, admire thousands of statues embedded in steep limestone cliffs. Your guide will focus on iconic sites like Fengxian Temple, home to the 17.14-meter-high Vairocana Buddha, sharing its Tang Dynasty construction story, intricate craftsmanship, and religious significance, as well as the evolution of carving styles across dynasties and hidden details of these artistic masterpieces.
After your comprehensive exploration of Longmen Grottoes, your guide and driver will safely transfer you back to your Zhengzhou hotel, concluding your unforgettable private day tour.

What's not included

Gratuities

The tour is about 8-10 hours, if you want to extend the tour, please pay 30USD to your guide and driver for each extra hour

Available languages

Guide guide

ZH-TW CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

The tour is about 8-10 hours, if you want to extend the tour, please pay 30USD to your guide and driver for each extra hour

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking

Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required

Important notes

• Dress code is smart casual
• 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