Explore Chinaโs 1,500-year-old Shaolin Temple โ the cradle of Zen Buddhism and legendary Kung Fu. Discover its history, culture, and practical travel tips.
Location: Where Serenity Meets Mountains
๐ In: Dengfeng City, Central Chinaโs Henan Province
Near major cities:
Zhengzhou (74km east)
Ancient capital Luoyang (northwest via Yuling Pass)
Coordinates: 34ยฐ31’28.31″N, 112ยฐ56’08.49″E
Flanked by: Mount Shaoshi (south) & Wuru Peak (north)
โจ Why unique:
Tucked between sacred Mount Taishi and Shaoshi, itโs a valley of spiritual power with breathtaking views.
1,530 Years of Living Heritage
๐ฏ Founded in 495 AD, Shaolin is globally revered for:
Zen Buddhism: Birthplace of Chan (Zen) tradition
Kung Fu: Home of authentic Shaolin Kung Fu
Healing & Arts: Ancient medicine and cultural arts
A global symbol of wisdom and strength today.
Abbot Shi Yongxin: Shaolinโs Global Guardian
๐ Profile:
Born Liu Yingcheng (1965, Anhui)
Abbot since 1999, leader since 1987
Heads Henan Buddhist Association, Vice-President of China Buddhist Association
Transformative Work:
โ Restored temples and rituals
โ Founded:
Shaolin Kung Fu Monks Team
Shaolin Charity Foundation
Shaolinโs first website
“Shaolin Studies” research program
๐ Global Legacy:
Established 40+ cultural centers (USA, UK, Germany, Australia…)
Promotes interfaith dialogue worldwide
Runs orphanages and supports education
Temple Layout: Walk the Sacred Path
โก๏ธ Design: 7 halls on central axis from Mountain Gate to Western Saints Hall. (See diagram for monksโ quarters layout)
How to Visit (2025 Guide)
๐ By Train:
High-speed rail to Zhengzhou East Station or Luoyang Longmen Station
Taxi/bus (1.5 hr) to Songshan Shaolin Scenic Area
โ๏ธ By Air:
Fly to Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport โ Taxi (1.5 hrs)
โโShaolin Templeโโ โ a 1,500-year-old sacred land of Zen and martial arts! Founded in 495 AD, it’s the birthplace of Chan Buddhism and Shaolin Kung Fu. Monks here masterfully blend spiritual wisdom with physical discipline, creating the unique “Zen in motion” culture. Every brick and tile whispers legends, drawing global seekers of Eastern wisdom and martial arts mastery.
Leave a Reply