Shaolin Zen Music Ritual in Dengfeng, Zhengzhou

The Shaolin Zen Music Ritual in Dengfeng, Zhengzhou is a grand Zen-themed performance art event. Set against the backdrop of Mount Song, the stage is crafted from natural stone, with sound systems installed on the mountain. The stage interweaves with the surrounding peaks, creating a visually stunning experience for the audience.

The performers are students from the Shaolin Temple or nearby martial arts schools. The show halts as temperatures drop, but fortunately, I caught one of the last performances. Since the show takes place at night and the mountain winds are relentless, coats are available for rent outside the venue.

The performance is divided into five movements: [Water Music: Zen Realm], [Wood Music: Zen Meditation], [Wind Music: Zen Martial Arts], [Light Music: Zen Enlightenment], and [Stone Music: Zen Hymn]. The experience exceeded expectations, blending the natural mountain setting with an outdoor stage in a comprehensive performance lasting about an hour. It was extremely cold, so dressing warmly is essential, especially with the presence of mist! There’s also a man-made waterfall nearby, adding to the atmosphere with its constant spray.

The music design incorporates the cyclical imagery of "spring, summer, autumn, and winter," harmonizing with the strength and precision of Shaolin martial arts. The changing colors of the lights symbolize the transition of seasons. On plum blossom stakes, martial monks perform precise moves that push the limits of their bodies, showcasing the resilience and agility of Shaolin Kung Fu. High-altitude combat scenes bring the audience’s imagination of Shaolin martial arts to life, with every move embodying the core spirit of "Zen and martial arts as one." For the sake of the performance, artificial snow was even created! Monks practiced spear techniques amidst falling snow and sword techniques under the crescent moon, symbolizing the long and arduous journey of martial arts training.

I particularly loved the stage design. From a distance, illuminated in the dark, it exudes an indescribable grandeur. Watching the monks practice on the pavilions was a serene and awe-inspiring experience.

If you visit Dengfeng, this famous Shaolin Temple performance is a must-see!

📍Cost: 299 RMB
📍Opening Hours: 20:00-21:00

Post by Lee Lee Sam | Oct 29, 2025