Things to do in Wen County
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Top 10 attractions in Wen County
Gongxian Grottoes
Gongyi Grottoes Temple is located at the foot of Dali Mountain, 9 km northeast of Gongyi city, nestled against the mountain and facing the water with picturesque scenery. Once praised as "a secluded retreat of misty streams and cloud-kissed cliffs," it is now a national AAA-level tourist attraction. The temple preserves five grottoes, one Thousand-Buddha niche, 255 small niches, three cliffside statues, and a total of 7,743 carved Buddha images, along with over 200 inscribed stone tablets. Among its treasures are 15 exquisite imperial Buddhist reliefs, renowned for their meticulous composition, masterful craftsmanship, and vivid character portrayals, making them rare gems in Buddhist art. Gongyi GrottoesCommissioned by the Northern Wei imperial family, the Gongyi Grottoes Temple was established by Emperor Xiaowen, with cave excavation beginning during Emperor Xuanwu's reign. Thousands of Buddhist statues were carved, followed by additional smaller niches created during the Eastern Wei, Western Wei, Tang, and Song dynasties. The Gongyi Grottoes Temple represents a continuation of...Longmen GrottoesIt was carved later, combining the foreign influences of Buddhist art with the traditional Han Chinese artistic style of the Central Plains.Gongyi · 14.9km from Wen County
Chenjiagou
Chen's Ravine is on Qingfeng Ridge to the east of Wenxian County, Jiaozuo. It is the birthplace of Chen-style Taijiquan. Hundreds of years ago, it was called Changyang Village. During the Hongwu Period of the Ming Dynasty, Chen Bu, a native of Zezhou in Shanxi, moved to the village. Later, thanks to Chen's prosperous family, its martial arts became very popular in the local area. Notably, there was a large ditch in the north-south direction of the village and over time the old name of Changyang was changed to Chen's Ravine. The area is home to the Taijiquan Ancestor Memorial Hall, Chen's Ravine Martial Arts Hall, and the legendary Yang Luchan's Boxing Training Area. Yang Luchan's Boxing Training Area is under Qingfeng Ridge, and the story told by the TV series "Tai Chi Master" takes place here.Wen County · 5.9km from downtown
Kang Baiwan Manor
The Kang Million Manor, one of China's three major manors, is a large estate whose history bridges the Chinese Ming, Qing and Republic eras. It has been called the spiritual home of Henan and a model of Central Plains architecture. The entire estate consists of 19 distinct sections, covering a massive area, however some sections are currently not open to the public. The architecture of the Kang Million Estate displays a unique style, showcasing multiple facets of Chinese traditional culture. The sculptures on the property are also quite beautiful, and visitors have admired them for many years running.Gongyi · 23km from Wen County
Du Fu's Hometown
The famous Tang poet Du Fu (712-770) was born in a one-hole brick cave at the foot of Bijia Mountain. Du Fu spent his youth here. In 1962, Du Fu's hometown was renovated and restored to its original appearance. It is a rectangular courtyard facing east to west and the gate facing south. The original house is 20 meters long and 10 meters wide. It has a small green tile gate tower. , hard mountain-style gray tile roof, indoor display of rare books of Du Fu's poems, comic strips of Du Fu's life, poetic paintings of Zhang Daqian, Jiang Guanghe, Qi Baishi, Zeng Zhushao, and a bronze statue of Du Fu.Gongyi · 16.2km from Wen County
Songshan Shaolin Scenic Area
It is said that "all martial arts originate fromShaolinNot only Chinese people who grew up deeply influenced by Shaolin kung fu, but also many international friends visiting Henan will go to see Shaolin temple. It is not only a sacred place for martial arts worldwide, but also the ancestral temple of Zen Buddhism. Striking some classic martial arts poses for photos at Shaolin temple makes the swords and shadows of the martial world seem to flash before your eyes. AboutShaolin TempleTwo keywords 1. The founder of Zen Buddhism The Shaolin Temple is a sacred Buddhist site in China and the ancestral temple of Chan Buddhism. In 527 AD, the renowned Indian monk Bodhidharma (known as the founder of Zen) traveled by sea to southern China, crossed the Yangtze River northward into the Central Plains, and arrived at Shaolin. He meditated and taught dharma in the mountains behind the Shaolin Temple, first advocating the Chan teaching of "mind-to-mind transmission," thereby establishing the temple's revered status as the ancestral home of Chan Buddhism. Nowadays, many visitors come to Shaolin Temple to pray for blessings and peace. The origin of martial arts After the "Thirteen monks with staffs rescued Li Shimin" incident in the early Tang Dynasty, Shaolin Temple became renowned worldwide for its exquisite "Shaolin Kung Fu," and since thenShaolinMonks practicing martial arts has become a common tradition passed down through generations. The Shaolin Temple is the birthplace of Shaolin kung fu, andShaolinThe pai school is a martial arts sect with a wide influence, long history, and numerous boxing styles in the wulin (martial arts world). Since ancient times, it has been regarded as "the foremost martial arts sect in the world" and the supreme authority of martial arts by Chinese people. The Shaolin Temple scenic area - pagoda forest is the burial ground of Shaolin Temple's successive abbots, serene and solemn. You might even catch glimpses of the movie "Shaolin Temple" here. Travel tips What to do? How long to stay? Recommended self-guided tour activities: Half-day tour:Shaolin Temple- Pagoda forest - Chuzu nunnery - Damo cave - Songshan Shaolin scenic area -Songshan Shaolin scenic area - Shaolin temple martial arts hallPerformance The Shaolin Temple complex mainly consists of three parts: the Changzhu Yuan Pagoda Forest, the Chuzu Nunnery, and the Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave. Most visitors traveling to Shaolin Temple from Luoyang or Zhengzhou choose this route. The layout of Shaolin Temple is typical of Han Chinese Buddhist temples, featuring central axis symmetry. After entering the mountain gate, you can walk straight ahead. The temple is not large, and the visit can be completed within an hour. The Shaolin Temple scenic area - pagoda forest is located approx. 400 m west of Shaolin Temple, serving as the burial ground for the temple's eminent monks throughout history. As the Buddhist saying goes: "Saving one life is better than building a seven-story pagoda." Here, you can learn about the life stories of Shaolin Temple's eminent monks across different dynasties. The Chuzu Temple and Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave are also near the Shaolin Temple, accessible by walking. The Chuzu Temple was built by people of the Song Dynasty to commemorate Bodhidharma's wall-gazing meditation, while the Songshan Shaolin attraction - Damo Cave is the very place where Patriarch Bodhidharma meditated facing a wall for nine years. 1-day tour:Shaolin Temple-Tallinn-Sanhuangzhai In the morning, follow the half-day tour itinerary to visit Shaolin Temple first, then proceed to the Shaolin Temple attraction - Pagoda Forest. The location is approx. 5 min walking distance from the Shaolin Temple attraction - Pagoda Forest.Shaolin cablewayAfter taking the cable car to Sanhuangzhai station, it takes about 30 minutes to reach the destination on foot.Sanhuangzhai scenic areaPortal. ActivitiesSanhuangzhai scenic areaIt takes at least 3-4 hours to explore the attraction, which features many unique geological views. The Sanhuangzhai cliffside plank walk is a must-see. Walking along the cliffside path with towering cliffs on one side and a sheer drop on the other is both a physical and mental challenge. 2-day tour:Shaolin Temple- Songyang scenic area - Zhongyue scenic area Shaolin Temple andSongyang academy, Mount SongLocated in Dengfeng, visitors with ample time can purchase a combo ticket for all three sites and explore them over two days. On the first day, visitShaolin scenic areaIn the evening, watch the live performance of "Zen Shaolin Music Ceremony", and the next day, head to Songyang, which is far from downtown Dengfeng.Zhongyue scenic area. Where can I see authentic Shaolin kung fu? Nowadays, it is difficult for ordinary visitors to witness the martial arts training of Shaolin monks at Shaolin temple. However, visitors can use the Shaolin temple combo ticket to watch the Shaolin kung fu performance at the Shaolin martial arts hall in Songshan Shaolin scenic area, approx. 700 m east of Shaolin temple. Performance time: The performance time at Songshan Shaolin scenic area - Shaolin temple martial arts hall is subject to the on-site announcement. Each performance lasts 30 minutes. The cost is included in the admission ticket. Where is a good place to stay?There are some farmhouse inns and guesthouses around Shaolin Temple, but the conditions are average. If you're not in a hurry, it's not recommended to stay here. If you need to stay overnight, Dengfeng city center is a good choice, as it offers convenient access to the three major attractions of Songshan Mountain. Shaolin TempleIs vegetarian food available?Since you're visiting Shaolin Temple, don't miss the vegetarian cuisine. The vegetarian restaurant inside Shaolin Temple is called "Huanxidi" and is worth trying. Shaolin story The most stubborn holdout in history: When it comes to stubborn holdouts, they didn't just appear in modern times. As early as the Tang dynasty, the Shaolin Temple emerged as such a case. Emperor Li Yuan of Tang issued an order for its demolition but failed. When Li Shimin came to power, not only was the Shaolin Temple spared from punishment, but it also received generous rewards. Compared to today's holdouts, the Shaolin Temple can be called the most legendary stubborn holdout in history. The origin of the matter was an imperial edict issued by Li Yuan, ordering the demolition of all temples within Henan province, including the Shaolin Temple. After receiving the imperial decree, hundreds of monks at Shaolin Temple refused to comply, standing united and resolute in collective defiance. Li Yuan had no choice, as the Tang dynasty was newly established and could not afford to gain a reputation for cruelty. He tacitly allowed the temple's "retention" but revoked the 4,000 acres of temple land previously granted by the Prince of Qin. Later, when Li Shimin became emperor, he granted Shaolin Temple an additional 4,000 mu of land, permitted the temple to train monk soldiers, lift the prohibition against killing, and consume alcohol and meat. Inside the temple, there is a stele titled "Emperor Taizong of Tang's decree to the Shaolin Temple abbot," which records this historical event. You may want to see it when visiting the Shaolin Temple.Dengfeng · 49.8km from Wen County
Longmen Grottoes
One of the four major grottoes of China and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Longmen Grottoes are a trove of 1000 years of Buddhist art treasures. Bounded by the Yi River, the caverns are divided into two sections at East Hill and West Hill. The caverns at East Hill contain mostly Tang dynasty (618-907) works, while the caverns at West Hill were cut out during the Northern, Sui, and Tang dynasties and contain the carvings that are most representative of the site. The Buddha and bodhisattva sculptures that inhabit the caverns are carved into an endless variety of poses and expressions of mercy and kindness, while the caves themselves lend a stately and dignified atmosphere. The artistry of these sculptures is truly a priceless inheritance of Buddhist art.Luoyang · 70km from Wen County
Henan Museum
Located in the city of Zhengzhou, Henan Museum has a rich collection of exhibits displaying Henan's 5,000-year history and offering a window into traditional Henanese culture. The museum has eight exhibition halls that can be visited in chronological order. The collection includes several national treasures, including the lotus crane vase, cloud copper chest, Saohao vase, Jiahu bone flute, Wushu copper plate and more. Be sure to visit them all.Zhengzhou · 56.5km from Wen County
White Horse Temple
The White Horse Temple was built in AD 68 and is the first temple built by the government after Buddhism was introduced to China. There are five major halls in the temple, located on a central axis. The Great Hall of Buddha is the main hall and also the main place of buddha rite. Today, a new "World Hall of Exposition" is built next to the White Horse Temple to showcase the Buddhist temples of India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, Japan, and South Korea.Luoyang · 49.7km from Wen County
Zhengzhou Yellow River Cultural Park
The Zhengzhou Yellow River Scenic Area is located 20 kilometers northwest of Zhengzhou City on the bank of the Yellow River. It is the starting point of the “hanging river” on the ground and the boundary between the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River. The main attractions are Yan Huang Square, the Stele Forest of the Yellow River, and the Geological Museum. Here, you can experience the magnificent scenery of the Yellow River at close quarters and learn about the rich history of the Yellow River culture.Zhengzhou · 39.5km from Wen County
Chenjiagou Tai Chi Cultural Tourism Area
Here, you will find attractions such as the Ancestral Hall of Tai Chi, the Ancestral Forest, and a museum. As a national hometown of martial arts and a study tour base, it hosts annual exchange activities and competitions, offers specialized courses, and integrates Tai Chi with technology, such as developing "digital humans." Visitors can learn Tai Chi, explore its origins, and experience its philosophy here, making it a spiritual home for inheriting national quintessence.Wen County · 6.3km from downtown
Experiences you can't miss in Wen County
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Featured Food & drink in Wen County
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Free things to do in Wen County
Henan Museum
Zhengzhou · 56.5km from Wen County
Luoyang Museum
Luoyang · 66.2km from Wen County
Song Du Huangcheng Cultural Tourism Resort
China · Kaifeng
Luoyi Ancient City
Luoyang · 61.6km from Wen County
The Luoyang Museum of Ancient Tombs
Luoyang · 65km from Wen County
Enjoy International Resort
Xinmi · 66.5km from Wen County
Erlitou Site Museum of the Xia Capital
Luoyang · 45.5km from Wen County
What travellers say about Wen County
Anonymous user10 October 2026
5.0
Speechless with beauty, these statues allow you to truly touch the stone marks from over a thousand years ago. The inscriptions bear the reign titles of the Eastern and Western Wei dynasties and Emperor Gaozong (Li Zhi), making you realize you are witnessing the traces of lives from a distant past.
Just looking isn't enough; listening to the explanation is best. I found a video online and listened while walking, noticing many details – kudos!
It's a bit far from the city center, but there are buses; it takes about half an hour to get back to the train station. You can also take a ride-hailing service.
Gongxian Grottoes
Anonymous user9 April 2025
4.0
It's not very popular, a bit of a niche attraction, but the surrounding environment and scenic area management are good. The historical development of Tai Chi is displayed very clearly, and many pictures have introductions to the moves. You can also learn a few moves by following the pictures when you visit. It's worth a visit if you are interested in Tai Chi.
Chenjiagou
Anonymous user8 October 2026
4.0
Very good. Worth seeing. The ticket price of 50 yuan is reasonable. The brick and wood carvings are exquisite, and the houses tell many stories, spanning the Ming, Qing, and Republican periods. There are many makeshift parking spots along the roadside, used for soliciting passengers; hopefully, this will be addressed.
Kang Baiwan Manor
M47***1519 February 2026
5.0
With boundless respect and anticipation, we brought our children to trace the footsteps of Du Fu, one of the greatest poets of the Tang Dynasty, a man deeply concerned about his country and its people. The entire former residence reflects Du Fu's life: simple, almost to the extreme, devoid of any extravagance or superfluity. Perhaps due to the relatively low number of visitors, there weren't enough funds for renovations. This aligns with Du Fu's character and destiny throughout his life.
Du Fu's Hometown
ivka89.24 October 2026
5.0
Shaolin is phenomenal, kung fu performance is amazing. No need to see the bridge it is nothing special we spent 4 km upstairs in one direction. Songshan scenery is amazing too
Songshan Shaolin Scenic Area
程咬金金24 October 2026
5.0
The Longmen Grottoes are renowned for their beautiful scenery and rich historical significance. Construction of the grottoes began in the 17th year of the Taihe reign of the Northern Wei Dynasty (493 AD) and continued until the Northern Song Dynasty. Among them, the Vairocana Buddha statue is considered a pinnacle of Tang Dynasty stone carving art. Legend has it that the Buddha's face was modeled after that of Empress Wu Zetian! She has stood quietly on the banks of the Luo River for over 1400 years.
Longmen Grottoes
羊乘二25 October 2026
5.0
This was well worth the money! Thank you, Teacher Jiang, for your thorough explanation. Many things I could only say "beautiful" or "amazing" to myself, but to truly appreciate their excellence and beauty, I needed to hear the stories behind them.
Henan Museum
賢賢君25 October 2026
5.0
Teacher Zhou's professional explanations, both in detail and easy to understand, helped us understand the history of Baima Temple and its related Buddhist culture. It was a pity that two halls were under renovation, which we could only consider a minor disappointment, but it will serve as motivation for our next visit.
White Horse Temple
M16***1822 October 2026
5.0
A trip to Zhengzhou wouldn't be complete without seeing the sculptures of the Yellow Emperor and the Yan Emperor, so I went to the Yellow River Cultural Park. On a weekday, I personally experienced its grand scale, impressive scale, tranquil atmosphere, and great value, as described online. Highly recommended!
Zhengzhou Yellow River Cultural Park
