Two-Day Shaolin Zen and Martial Arts Culture

Two-Day Immersive Tour of Mount Song (Zen and Martial Arts Cultivation, Mountain Ascents and Panoramic Views)
Theme: In-depth Cultural Experience + Natural Scenery + Shaoshi Mountain Hike
Suitable For: Travelers seeking a deeper immersion in Shaolin culture and Mount Song’s natural landscapes.

Itinerary:
Day 1 (Shaolin Zen and Martial Arts Culture):
Morning arrival. Visit the Shaolin Temple’s main monastery and watch a martial arts performance.
Afternoon: Visit the Pagoda Forest, then proceed to the First Patriarch’s Hermitage and Bodhidharma Cave (involves hiking, approx. 2 hours round trip). This serene site marks where Bodhidharma, the founding patriarch of Chan Buddhism, meditated facing a wall for nine years.
Evening: Stay at a guesthouse in Dengfeng city or near Shaolin Temple. Consider attending the large-scale live performance “Zen Shaolin: The Musical Spectacle” (nightly show, seasonally available, advance booking required).
Day 2 (Geological Wonders of Mount Song):
Full-day exploration of Sanhuangzhai. Recommended route: From the Shaolin Temple scenic area entrance, take the Shaolin Cableway up the mountain and begin hiking. Follow the boardwalk to admire landmarks like Book Cliff, Sky-Reaching Suspension Bridge, and Sanhuang Zen Temple. This classic hiking route takes approximately 4-5 hours.
Descend via the Heroes’ Slope at the opposite end of Sanhuangzhai—note this exit differs from the entrance. After descending, take a taxi back to the Shaolin Temple parking lot to retrieve your vehicle, or proceed directly to Dengfeng Bus Station.
Depart Dengfeng by bus in the evening. Accommodation suggestions: Dengfeng city center (wide selection, convenient dining) or themed inns near Shaolin Temple (atmospheric ambiance).