Dengfeng
The Ancient Centre of Heaven and Earth
Dengfeng, in Henan Province, is one of China’s most sacred and historically significant cities. Known since ancient times as the “Centre of Heaven and Earth”, it is home to the legendary Shaolin Temple, the sacred Mount Song, and multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This remarkable destination combines dramatic mountain landscapes with deep spiritual heritage, offering an unforgettable journey into China’s cultural heart.
For more than two thousand years, Dengfeng has been a crossroads for Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism, with temples, academies, and monasteries scattered across its scenic valleys and peaks. Visitors can explore ancient religious sites, walk historic trails, and experience the traditions that have shaped Chinese civilisation.
Shaolin Temple
Birthplace of Kung Fu
The world-renowned Shaolin Temple is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu and Chan (Zen) Buddhism. Here you can explore centuries-old halls, witness spectacular martial arts displays by Shaolin monks, and wander through the Pagoda Forest, a collection of over 240 stone and brick pagodas honouring generations of masters.
Mount Song
One of China’s Five Great Mountains
Known as Zhongyue, Mount Song offers a blend of natural beauty and sacred history. Its hiking trails lead to mountain temples, meditation caves, waterfalls, and sweeping viewpoints. The mountain is especially breathtaking in autumn, when maple and ginkgo trees turn golden.
Fawang Temple
One of the oldest temples on Mount Song, Fawang Temple is celebrated for its thousand-year-old ginkgo tree and traditional Chinese architecture. From here, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Dengfeng city, particularly stunning when autumn leaves are in full colour.
Songyang Academy
Dating back to the Song Dynasty, Songyang Academy is one of China’s four great ancient academies and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its ancient cypress trees, including one of the oldest in the country, the academy offers a fascinating insight into Confucian education and scholarly traditions.
Zhongyue Temple
As the largest Taoist temple complex in China, Zhongyue Temple is a key centre of Taoist worship. Its ancient halls, stone inscriptions, and majestic cypress groves reflect the rich religious culture of Mount Song. Highlights include the Tian Zhong Pavilion and Junji Hall, both steeped in history.
Local Cuisine
Dengfeng’s culinary offerings include Shaolin vegetarian dishes, pickled mustard (the “First Dish of Songshan”), menzi (a savoury, chewy jelly), and Shaolin vegetarian cakes, valued for their health benefits and energy boost.
Weather in Dengfeng
Dengfeng has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons.
- Spring (March–May) – Mild and fresh, perfect for outdoor sightseeing.
- Summer (June–August) – Warm to hot, with occasional rainfall; average highs around 30°C.
- Autumn (September–November) – Cool and dry, ideal for hiking and enjoying colourful foliage.
- Winter (December–February) – Cold but generally dry, with temperatures often dipping below 0°C.
The best times to visit are spring and autumn when temperatures are comfortable and the scenery is at its most striking.
Getting There
Dengfeng is about 100 km from Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport. From Zhengzhou Railway Station, buses take around 1.5 hours. Local transport options include buses and taxis, with most major attractions, including the Shaolin Temple, within easy reach.
