Beijing: Shaolin Temple Day Tour by Round Trip Bullet Train

Traveling from Beijing to the legendary Shaolin Temple in a single day might sound ambitious, but this tour makes it surprisingly manageable—and memorable. If you’re passionate about Chinese culture, martial arts, or history, this experience offers a window into one of China’s most iconic sites, all wrapped into a well-organized 15-hour adventure.

What truly makes this tour stand out are the efficient high-speed train journey, the insightful guides, and the opportunity to see authentic martial arts demonstrations performed by Shaolin monks. We particularly appreciate the chance to explore the temple and its surroundings with expert commentary, making the visit both educational and inspiring.

However, it’s worth noting that the day is quite packed, with around 12-15 hours of door-to-door travel, which might be tiring for some travelers. Plus, the logistics of train tickets, which require a deposit, mean you need to plan a bit in advance. This tour best suits those who are eager to maximize their time and are comfortable with long days on the go.

Overall, if you’re after a convenient, guided, and culturally immersive experience that connects Beijing with the martial arts heartland of China, this tour is an excellent choice.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive day trip combining high-speed train travel with guided exploration of Shaolin Temple
• Includes all major entrance fees and a guided Kung Fu performance
• Efficient transportation logistics with tickets sent in advance, saving time and hassle
• Authentic cultural experience with knowledgeable guides and stunning temple views
• Long day with around 15 hours of door-to-door service, ideal for energetic travelers
• Deposit system for train tickets, requiring some planning and passport copies

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Beijing Downtown Pickup

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your Beijing hotel lobby—either in the Qianmen area or centrally located hotels. A driver will meet you holding a sign with your name, making the beginning stress-free. Expect a smooth transfer to Beijing West Railway Station, where you’ll meet your English-speaking guide and board the bullet train.

The Bullet Train Experience: Fast, Comfortable, and Scenic

The train ride to Zhengzhou lasts approximately 2.5 to 3.5 hours. During this time, you get a glimpse of China’s modern infrastructure, with clean, fast trains that make long-distance travel more comfortable. It’s a good chance to relax, take photos of passing landscapes, or chat with fellow travelers about what’s ahead.

Arriving in Zhengzhou: A Brief Journey to Shaolin

Once in Zhengzhou, your guide will be waiting at the station with a sign, ready to escort you to the Shaolin Temple, a trip of roughly 1.5 hours through scenic countryside. This drive sets the tone, as your guide shares snippets about the monastery’s history and its significance as the birthplace of Kung Fu. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about the temple’s origins, going back to 495 A.D., and how it became a spiritual and martial arts hub.

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Shaolin Temple: The Heart of Kung Fu

The core of this tour is the guided visit to Shaolin, where you’ll witness a Kung Fu performance by Shaolin monks. The show is often a highlight, showcasing martial arts with precision and agility that can leave even seasoned martial arts enthusiasts in awe.

Following the show, your guide will lead you through different halls, like the Mahavira Hall, the Hall of Heavenly Kings, and the Thousand-Buddha Hall. Each space tells a chapter of the temple’s story, with stories of monks, spiritual practices, and the temple’s architectural beauty.

The Pagoda Forest is a highlight too—over 240 tomb pagodas from various dynasties, offering a fascinating glance at Buddhist funerary architecture and the historical continuity of the temple. It’s a peaceful, contemplative space with plenty of photo opportunities.

Return Journey: A Full Circle

After exploring Shaolin, you’ll be taken back to Zhengzhou Railway Station to catch the return train to Beijing, which takes approximately 2.5 hours. Arriving back at Beijing West Railway Station, a driver will transfer you back to your hotel, wrapping up a full, enriching day.

The Value of This Tour

The $398 per person price includes most major components: round-trip train tickets, all transfers, a guided tour, entrance fees, and the Kung Fu show. This makes it a convenient and cost-effective way to visit Shaolin without the hassle of organizing logistics yourself.

Travelers who value guided insights and want a well-paced experience will appreciate how knowledgeable guides like Gavin add context to every stop. As one reviewer said, “Gavin was great both driving us to Shaolin and explaining the history of the monastery and the region.”

The inclusion of train tickets sent in advance saves considerable time and reduces stress, especially since the process involves a refundable deposit of around 100 USD per person. This deposit system ensures seat availability, but travelers should be aware that once tickets are purchased, cancellations aren’t refundable.

The guided Kung Fu performance is also a highlight, providing a glimpse of authentic martial arts by practitioners who have dedicated their lives to this craft. The show is not just entertainment; it’s a display of discipline, skill, and tradition.

What Could Be Better?

Given the long duration, some might find the day a bit tiring, especially if they prefer more relaxed sightseeing. The itinerary is quite packed, and with around 15 hours of door-to-door travel, it’s best suited for energetic travelers ready for a full day.

Plus, this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues, due to the walking involved and the nature of the sites.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, martial arts enthusiasts, and cultural explorers who want an authentic experience without the hassle of planning logistics. It offers excellent value by combining transportation, guided insights, and immersive visits into a single day.

If you’re prepared for a long but rewarding day and want to witness the legendary Shaolin Temple in its full glory, this tour delivers a rich, well-organized experience. It’s a fantastic option to tick this iconic site off your bucket list, especially if you’re short on time in China.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my passport or ID card?
Yes, a valid passport or ID card is required for train ticket booking and verification.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan for meals during the day.

How are the train tickets secured?
A deposit of 100 USD per person is paid to secure the tickets, which is refunded after the tour; the actual tickets are sent to you in advance.

What is the duration of the entire day?
The total door-to-door experience lasts about 15 hours, including transfers, train rides, and sightseeing.

Are guides available in English?
Yes, the guides in Zhengzhou speak English, providing detailed explanations throughout the trip.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, but keep in mind the long hours and walking involved. It’s best for children who can handle a full day of sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and any personal essentials.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any special considerations for the train journey?
Seats are booked in advance, so you’ll need your passport info for the reservation. The trains are comfortable, but expect a busy travel day.

To sum it up, this tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way to experience Shaolin Temple’s legendary martial arts and spiritual atmosphere from Beijing. It balances guided insight with authentic cultural sights, making it a compelling choice for those eager to deepen their understanding of Chinese heritage in a single day. Perfect for travelers who want a hassle-free, well-organized adventure with plenty of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby