Where to Go in China?
Explore Destinations & Get Inspored For Your Next Getaway
Must-Visit UNESCO Destinations in Henan

Henan, the cradle of Chinese civilization, is home to some of the most significant historical sites in China, many of which are recognized by UNESCO for their cultural and historical value. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to explore ancient landmarks, Henan offers a rich tapestry of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here’s a guide to the top UNESCO sites in Henan that you must visit when traveling to this fascinating province.


1. Longmen Grottoes: Ancient Art Carved in Stone

Located in Luoyang, the Longmen Grottoes are one of China’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These ancient Buddhist caves, dating back to the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534 AD), are home to over 100,000 Buddhist statues, inscriptions, and carvings. The caves, carved into the cliffs of the Yishui River, are a testament to the brilliance of ancient Chinese art and architecture. The Fengxian Temple within the grottoes is particularly notable for its grand statues, including the towering figure of Vairocana Buddha, which stands nearly 17 meters tall.

Visitors to the Longmen Grottoes can admire these masterpieces while walking along the riverbanks or climbing to viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the site. This UNESCO site is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Chinese religious art and history.


2. Shaolin Temple: The Birthplace of Kung Fu

Another UNESCO-listed site in Henan is the Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng, which is renowned worldwide as the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu. The temple, founded in 495 AD during the Northern Wei Dynasty, is not only a center of Buddhist study but also the cradle of the famous martial art. Visitors can explore the temple complex, which includes the Pagoda Forest, a collection of ancient tomb pagodas that date back to the Tang Dynasty.

The Shaolin Monastery, situated at the base of the Songshan Mountains, is still an active temple where monks practice martial arts and Buddhism. For visitors, watching a live Kung Fu performance or taking a lesson with a Shaolin monk is an unforgettable experience.


3. Ancient City of Kaifeng: A City of Historic Significance

The Ancient City of Kaifeng was once one of the Seven Ancient Capitals of China and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into China’s imperial past. As the capital of several Chinese dynasties, including the Northern Song Dynasty, Kaifeng is home to many historical landmarks, including the Iron Pagoda, Kaifeng City Wall, and Dragon Pavilion. These sites represent a rich blend of ancient architecture and cultural heritage.

Kaifeng is also famous for its Jewish community, which settled in the city over a thousand years ago, adding an intriguing layer of cultural diversity to the region. Walking through Kaifeng’s streets feels like stepping back in time, making it an essential stop for those exploring Henan’s UNESCO sites.


4. Yuntai Mountain: A UNESCO Geopark of Natural Wonders

Located in the western part of Henan Province, Yuntai Mountain is a UNESCO Global Geopark known for its stunning natural landscapes. Famous for its deep ravines, waterfalls, and geological formations, Yuntai Mountain is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park also has a number of ancient temples and Buddhist shrines scattered throughout the area, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy both natural beauty and historical exploration.

The Red Stone Gorge and Jiulong Waterfall are two of the park’s most famous scenic spots. Yuntai Mountain offers numerous hiking trails and opportunities for adventure, making it one of Henan’s top UNESCO sites for eco-tourism.


5. The Henan Provincial Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage Collection

Although not a traditional "site," the Henan Provincial Museum in Zhengzhou houses a significant collection of UNESCO-listed artifacts. The museum showcases Henan’s rich history, from the ancient Shang Dynasty relics found in Anyang to the Mawangdui Tombs and other important archaeological discoveries. It is a great starting point for anyone looking to learn more about Henan’s cultural and historical legacy.


Henan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites are a testament to the province’s historical and cultural importance in the development of Chinese civilization. From the breathtaking sculptures at the Longmen Grottoes to the martial arts heritage of the Shaolin Temple, these UNESCO sites offer an immersive experience into China’s ancient past. Whether you’re exploring ancient Buddhist caves, imperial capitals, or stunning natural landscapes, Henan is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression on every traveler.


Must-Visit UNESCO Destinations in Henan

Henan, the cradle of Chinese civilization, is home to some of the most significant historical sites in China, many of which are recognized by UNESCO for their cultural and historical value. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to explore ancient landmarks, Henan offers a rich tapestry of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here’s a guide to the top UNESCO sites in Henan that you must visit when traveling to this fascinating province.


1. Longmen Grottoes: Ancient Art Carved in Stone

Located in Luoyang, the Longmen Grottoes are one of China’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These ancient Buddhist caves, dating back to the Northern Wei Dynasty (386-534 AD), are home to over 100,000 Buddhist statues, inscriptions, and carvings. The caves, carved into the cliffs of the Yishui River, are a testament to the brilliance of ancient Chinese art and architecture. The Fengxian Temple within the grottoes is particularly notable for its grand statues, including the towering figure of Vairocana Buddha, which stands nearly 17 meters tall.

Visitors to the Longmen Grottoes can admire these masterpieces while walking along the riverbanks or climbing to viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the site. This UNESCO site is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient Chinese religious art and history.


2. Shaolin Temple: The Birthplace of Kung Fu

Another UNESCO-listed site in Henan is the Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng, which is renowned worldwide as the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu. The temple, founded in 495 AD during the Northern Wei Dynasty, is not only a center of Buddhist study but also the cradle of the famous martial art. Visitors can explore the temple complex, which includes the Pagoda Forest, a collection of ancient tomb pagodas that date back to the Tang Dynasty.

The Shaolin Monastery, situated at the base of the Songshan Mountains, is still an active temple where monks practice martial arts and Buddhism. For visitors, watching a live Kung Fu performance or taking a lesson with a Shaolin monk is an unforgettable experience.


3. Ancient City of Kaifeng: A City of Historic Significance

The Ancient City of Kaifeng was once one of the Seven Ancient Capitals of China and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into China’s imperial past. As the capital of several Chinese dynasties, including the Northern Song Dynasty, Kaifeng is home to many historical landmarks, including the Iron Pagoda, Kaifeng City Wall, and Dragon Pavilion. These sites represent a rich blend of ancient architecture and cultural heritage.

Kaifeng is also famous for its Jewish community, which settled in the city over a thousand years ago, adding an intriguing layer of cultural diversity to the region. Walking through Kaifeng’s streets feels like stepping back in time, making it an essential stop for those exploring Henan’s UNESCO sites.


4. Yuntai Mountain: A UNESCO Geopark of Natural Wonders

Located in the western part of Henan Province, Yuntai Mountain is a UNESCO Global Geopark known for its stunning natural landscapes. Famous for its deep ravines, waterfalls, and geological formations, Yuntai Mountain is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park also has a number of ancient temples and Buddhist shrines scattered throughout the area, making it an ideal destination for those who enjoy both natural beauty and historical exploration.

The Red Stone Gorge and Jiulong Waterfall are two of the park’s most famous scenic spots. Yuntai Mountain offers numerous hiking trails and opportunities for adventure, making it one of Henan’s top UNESCO sites for eco-tourism.


5. The Henan Provincial Museum: A UNESCO World Heritage Collection

Although not a traditional "site," the Henan Provincial Museum in Zhengzhou houses a significant collection of UNESCO-listed artifacts. The museum showcases Henan’s rich history, from the ancient Shang Dynasty relics found in Anyang to the Mawangdui Tombs and other important archaeological discoveries. It is a great starting point for anyone looking to learn more about Henan’s cultural and historical legacy.


Henan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites are a testament to the province’s historical and cultural importance in the development of Chinese civilization. From the breathtaking sculptures at the Longmen Grottoes to the martial arts heritage of the Shaolin Temple, these UNESCO sites offer an immersive experience into China’s ancient past. Whether you’re exploring ancient Buddhist caves, imperial capitals, or stunning natural landscapes, Henan is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression on every traveler.