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Visit the Thousand Buddha Hall to admire the impressive array of Buddhist statues and murals. Explore the historic architecture, which reflects the spiritual significance of the site, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere that invites reflection.
The Thousand Buddha Hall, also known as the Hall of Saints, is named after the large mural depicting 500 Arhats. It is the last hall in the Shaolin Temple and the largest remaining Buddhist hall. It houses the Vairocana Buddha, hence the name Vairocana Pavilion.
The Thousand Buddha Hall, rebuilt in the late Ming Dynasty, is seven bays wide and 20 meters high. The inscription "Fayin Gaoti" on the shrine was written by Emperor Qianlong. The bronze statue of Vairocana Buddha enshrined in the shrine within the hall was cast during the Ming Dynasty. Behind the shrine, on the north wall and on the east and west walls, is a large mural depicting "Five Hundred Arhats Paying Homage to Vairocana." These five hundred Arhats are characterized by their unique appearances and are divided into 35 groups, each depicting a story. It is said that the color of their faces changes constantly, with one Arhat undergoing a transformation every 12 years.
Inside the hall, there are 48 20-centimeter-deep pits arranged in a circle on the ground. These are said to be the remains of the footsteps of Shaolin monks who practiced their martial arts. The small, linear distribution of the pits bears witness to the monks' diligent training and illustrates the characteristic of Shaolin Kung Fu: "curved but not curved, straight but not straight."
temperate monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for 20 minutes
free
7:30-17:00
The Thousand Buddha Hall is a key cultural and historical site, known for its ancient Buddhist statues and rich religious significance. It has been an important Buddhist temple for centuries, serving as a center for worship and meditation, as well as a place to honor the Buddhist faith.
The Thousand Buddha Hall is located in Zhengzhou, Henan Province. It can be accessed by taxi or private car. Public buses may also serve the area, and it is within walking distance from other local attractions in Zhengzhou.
The hall is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
The entrance fee is approximately 30-50 RMB, depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through various travel platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but is recommended during peak seasons or holidays to avoid long queues. It’s best to book at least a few days ahead during busy periods.
A visit to the Thousand Buddha Hall typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on your interest in exploring the statues, murals, and the surrounding area.
Key highlights include the main hall filled with statues of Buddha, intricate murals depicting Buddhist teachings, and the peaceful courtyards that surround the hall.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in English and Mandarin can be rented at the entrance.
The best photography spots are near the main hall and the surrounding courtyards, where you can capture the impressive Buddhist statues and tranquil environment. Sunset views also offer great photo opportunities.
Start by exploring the main hall to view the Buddha statues, then move to the courtyards for a more serene experience. Take time to reflect in the garden areas before heading to the surrounding attractions.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not offered at the Thousand Buddha Hall. Special tours may be available during religious events or festivals.
The hall can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. There are small shops selling souvenirs and Buddhist-related items, but food and drink options are limited within the attraction itself.
The hall is relatively accessible for elderly and children, though some areas may involve walking on uneven surfaces. Visitors with disabilities may find it challenging to navigate certain areas without assistance.
Both cash and mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted, so it’s advisable to use mobile payment or cash.
There are a few local restaurants near the site, offering Chinese dishes. For more variety, visitors can head to the downtown area of Zhengzhou.
Vegetarian options are available at some local restaurants, though vegan and halal options may be limited. It's advisable to check menus beforehand.
There are several hotels nearby, ranging from budget options to mid-range accommodations. For more luxurious options, visitors can choose hotels in central Zhengzhou.
Nearby attractions include the Zhengzhou Ancient City Wall, the Shaolin Temple, and the Henan Museum. These can easily be combined into a day trip.
Souvenir shops sell items such as Buddha statues, prayer beads, and traditional Chinese crafts related to Buddhism and local culture.
After visiting, taxis, buses, or the Zhengzhou Metro are good transportation options to continue your trip. The city’s central railway station is also easily accessible from the site.
