- China Destination Guide

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China travel and tour destination Shaolin Si

China Destination Guide - Shaolin Si 少林寺

Perhaps one of the best known Buddhist temples in China due to its association with Shaolin martial arts. First constructed in 477 AD by the Emperor Xuanwu it has been destroyed and rebuilt many times over the years, most famously by the Qing dynasty in 1644 for anti-government activities. Sacked again during the cultural revolution by red guards, the monastery is now undergoing a revival as the Chinese people rediscover a newfound pride in their history since the reform period began in the early 1980s.

➤ TCTC Tip: Shaolin Si is a full day trip from Luoyang and visited alongside the Longmen Grottoes.

What there is to see at Shaolin Si:

There are numerous temple complexes such as the Shanmen Hall and Hall of Heavenly Kings to name but a few.
The Pagoda Forest is a surreal feature (pictured right) and was a graveyard for Buddhist dignitaries. On average, the pagodas average about 15 meters and the layer and the shape of a pagoda depends on factors such as status and attainment and prestige during life.
If you are up for studying martial arts the Shaolin Temple Martial Art Training Center may be for you although you will need a fair amount of time to complete a course.

Best time to visit Shaolin Si

April and May as well as September and October are the best months. Winters are cold but dry and the summers are hot and humid.

Best reason to visit Shaolin Si

To see (or even participate in!) a martial arts display and wander the forests, especially if you can get away from the crowds.

Our last word on Shaolin Si

Anyone with an interest in Martial Arts will enjoy a visit here. The nearby Longmen Grottoes are also a must, making a trip to this part of China highly worthwhile.