The Path Underfoot: Zhengzhou Dengfeng • Mount Song, the Central Sacred Mountain

Located in Dengfeng City, Henan Province, Mount Song is one of China's Five Great Mountains, renowned worldwide for the Shaolin Temple. The best times to visit are spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant. Recommended stay: 2-3 days. Transportation: Take a bus or drive about 1.5 hours from Zhengzhou to Dengfeng City, then transfer to a local bus or taxi to the scenic area. Direct buses are available from Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport to Dengfeng. Main Attractions: 1. Shaolin Temple: The birthplace of Chinese Zen Buddhism. Don't miss the martial arts show and Pagoda Forest. Ticket: 80💰, Martial arts show: 30💰. 2. Sanhuang Village: Primarily natural landscapes featuring cliffside plank walks. Requires 3-4 hours of hiking. Ticket: 100💰. 3. Zhongyue Temple: A Taoist sacred site with one of China's best-preserved ancient architectural complexes. Ticket: 30💰. 4. Songyang Academy: One of China's four great ancient academies. Ticket: 30💰. 5. Star Observation Platform: A UNESCO World Heritage site built by Guo Shoujing. Ticket: 40💰. Recommended Itinerary: Day 1: Shaolin Temple (morning) - Martial arts show (noon) - Pagoda Forest (afternoon) Day 2: Sanhuang Village (full day) Day 3: Zhongyue Temple - Songyang Academy - Star Observation Platform Local Cuisine: 1. Dengfeng Sesame Cake: Crispy local specialty. 2. Shaolin Vegetarian Cuisine: Experience monastic dietary culture. 3. Stewed Noodles: Henan's signature noodle dish. 4. Spicy Soup: The go-to local breakfast. Accommodation Suggestions: 1. Near Shaolin Temple: Convenient with mid-range prices. 2. Dengfeng City Center: More options with better value. 3. Luxury option: Zen-Wu Grand Hotel. Tips: 1. Wear comfortable sports shoes as hiking is required in some areas. 2. Bring sufficient water as mountain prices are higher. 3. Respect religious site regulations. 4. Book accommodation in advance during peak seasons. 5. Check martial arts show schedules. Shopping Advice: 1. Be cautious of overpriced souvenirs near Shaolin Temple. 2. Consider authentic Shaolin vegetarian cookies. 3. Better shopping deals in Dengfeng city center.