Zhengzhou 8-Day Tour: Shaolin Temple & Scenic Area

Zhengzhou, a transport hub on the Yellow River, is home to the excellent Henan Museum (Jiahu bone flute, owl-shaped bronze). The Yellow River scenic area and Shang dynasty ruins show the layering of ancient and modern China.

Mount Song, the central peak of China's Five Sacred Mountains, unites Confucian, Buddhist and Taoist sites; its 'Centre of Heaven and Earth' complex is a UNESCO site. Hike to Junji Peak and visit Songyang Academy and Zhongyue Temple.

Luoyang, an ancient capital for thirteen dynasties and the eastern start of the Silk Road, is also famous for peonies. Beyond Longmen and White Horse Temple, the Sui-Tang city wall light show, Luoyang Museum and old-town night market are highlights.

Longmen Grottoes are carved into cliffs along the Yi River, with over 2,000 niches and 100,000+ statues; the Vairocana Buddha at Fengxian Temple is breathtaking. Along with Dunhuang and Yungang, it is a pinnacle of Northern Wei to Tang stone carving.

Laojun Mountain in Luanchuan, Luoyang, is a sacred Taoist peak of the Funiu range. The golden summit temples rise above the sea of clouds; the Ten-Mile Painting Screen trail offers ever-changing views. Take the cable car up and, on clear days, catch the sunrise over the clouds.

Wanxian Mountain in Huixian nests the Guoliang hanging road and Nanping gorges amid red cliffs and waterfalls. Great for hiking and photography, with cool summers close to Zhengzhou and Luoyang.

Yuntai Mountain in Xiuwu, Jiaozuo, is famed for the red-rock Hongshi Gorge, waterfall trails and cloud seas on Yuzhu Peak. Park shuttles link the sights; its gentle trails and cool summers suit families.

The trip winds down: you are transferred to the station/airport per your departure time. If time allows, a last stroll downtown; pack early and check documents. Safe travels!