Shaolin Temple (Shàolínsì) is a famous Buddhist monastery located in Dengfeng, Henan Province, China. It is historically renowned as the birthplace of Chan (Zen) Buddhism and Chinese martial arts—especially Shaolin Kung Fu. The name combines three characters: 少 (Shào), short for 'Shaoshi Mountain' where it sits; 林 (Lín), meaning 'forest', referencing the wooded mountain area; and 寺 (Sì), meaning 'Buddhist temple'. Together, the name literally means 'Temple in the Shaoshi Mountain Forest'.

The temple holds deep cultural and spiritual significance in China and globally. It attracts pilgrims, martial artists, tourists, and scholars alike. While often associated with kung fu demonstrations today, its core identity remains rooted in Chan Buddhist practice, meditation, and monastic discipline. Visiting or studying at Shaolin Temple symbolizes engagement with both Chinese religious tradition and physical cultivation.