Shaolin Temple
Built in 495AD, Shaolin Temple is the famous home of Kung Fu (wushi). It is also the home of the Chan (Zen) sect of Buddhism, which was introduced in 527 by the Indian monk Boddhidharma, founder of the sect. At Shaolin, Boddhidharma supposedly spent 9 years facing a wall in the state of illumination and visitors can still go to the cave where he meditated.
The draw of Shaolin Temple for most is Kung Fu. Visitors can watch thousands of young trainees dressed in the colors of their respective schools practice this martial art. In September, the temple comes alive with guests from all over the world, as it hosts the international Wushu Festival.
The 30,000 sq meter temple comprises 7 rows of buildings including the Hall of Heavenly King, Dharma Pavilion, Thousand Buddha Hall, White-Robe Bodhhisattva Hall and the Hall of Ksitigarbba (Guardian of the Earth).
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