Sixth Patriarch Hall

Introducing Sixth Patriarch Hall

The Sixth Patriarch Hall is located on the west side of the platform of the Main Hall in the Shaolin Temple scenic area, opposite the Kinnara Hall. Rebuilt in 1983 , it is three bays wide and three bays deep, and is a single-eaved, hard-roofed building with a front porch.

Inside the main hall are enshrined the Bodhisattvas Mahasthamaprapta, Manjushri, Avalokitesvara, Samantabhadra, and Ksitigarbha. On either side are enshrined the founder of Zen Buddhism, Bodhidharma; the second patriarch, Huike; the third patriarch, Sengcan; the fourth patriarch, Daoxuan; the fifth patriarch, Hongren; and the sixth patriarch, Huineng, known as the Sixth Patriarch Worshipping Avalokitesvara. On the west wall of the Sixth Patriarch Hall is a large colored sculpture depicting Bodhidharma 's return to the West with only one shoe .

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended playing time: less than 1 hour

Tickets

Included in the Shaolin Temple scenic area ticket

Attraction opening hours

7:30-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Sixth Patriarch Hall

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Sixth Patriarch Hall is a renowned Buddhist temple dedicated to Huineng, who is considered one of the most influential figures in Chinese Zen Buddhism. It serves as a spiritual hub for followers of Zen and is a place of pilgrimage for many Buddhists.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Sixth Patriarch Hall is located in Zhengzhou, Henan. You can reach it by taxi or public transportation, such as a local bus or metro, with the nearest metro station being a short walk from the site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Sixth Patriarch Hall is open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance to the temple, and there are no major online booking platforms for this site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Advance booking is not required for the Sixth Patriarch Hall. Visitors can buy tickets on-site upon arrival, though visiting during non-peak hours is recommended to avoid crowds.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A typical visit to the Sixth Patriarch Hall takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in exploring the gardens and other areas of the temple grounds.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main hall dedicated to the Sixth Patriarch, with its statues and historical artifacts.
• The peaceful garden, ideal for meditation and reflection.
• Inscriptions and ancient relics that showcase the Zen Buddhist heritage of the site.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese, but English-speaking guides may be limited. Audio guides are not typically available, so it may be helpful to hire a local guide if you need an English-speaking tour.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The main hall, especially its front area, offers a serene backdrop for photographs.
• The temple's garden provides a peaceful and beautiful setting for pictures, particularly in the early morning or evening light.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by visiting the main hall to see the primary Buddhist artifacts and statues. Afterward, take a stroll through the gardens for some quiet reflection. Don’t forget to explore the inscriptions and relics scattered around the temple grounds.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available at the Sixth Patriarch Hall. It is best visited during daylight hours for a peaceful and contemplative experience.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The Sixth Patriarch Hall can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, plan your visit on weekdays, preferably in the morning or late afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Basic restroom facilities are available near the entrance and around the temple grounds.
• There are no food stalls or restaurants inside the temple, so visitors should bring their own snacks or visit nearby restaurants in Zhengzhou.
• There are no shops on-site, but souvenir shops can be found in the city.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site is relatively accessible, though there may be some uneven terrain in parts of the temple grounds. Elderly or disabled visitors might find some areas challenging, but overall, the main temple area is accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted at the entrance. Mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted, so it’s advisable to have cash or use mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants inside the Sixth Patriarch Hall, but you can find local eateries and cafes in Zhengzhou city, which is about 30 minutes away by car.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in Zhengzhou city, but halal food options may be limited. It’s best to check in advance for nearby restaurants that cater to specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

While there are no hotels directly near the Sixth Patriarch Hall, there are numerous hotels in Zhengzhou, including both budget and mid-range options.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Zhengzhou Museum, which is a short distance from the site.
• The Erqi Memorial Tower, another important landmark in the city.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are no souvenir shops inside the Sixth Patriarch Hall, but you can find local souvenirs in Zhengzhou city, such as traditional handicrafts and Buddhist-themed items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, taxis or private transportation are the best options to continue your trip. Zhengzhou’s public transport network, including buses and metro, can also be used to reach other parts of the city.