Shaolin Temple (登封少林寺)

 

Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng

Shaolin Temple, nestled at the foot of Songshan Mountain, is probably the most famous temple in China, not only because of its role in the development of Chinese kung fu, but also because of its long history and important role in Chinese Buddhism. The temple was built in 495 during the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534) and was designed to house Batuo, a celebrated Indian monk, who, after many years of spreading Buddhism, was later known as Fo Tuo, or the Grand Monk. The entire complex consists of 11 traditional structures, including the Shaolin Temple, the Observatory, Songyang Academy, Taishi Towers and Zhongyue Temple. The spot is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Admission: 100 yuan (US$15.7)