Luoyang

Nestled in Henan Province, Luoyang is a city where history and culture converge. As the capital of 13 ancient Chinese dynasties, it offers travelers a rich tapestry of historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Ideal for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers, a visit of 2–3 days allows for a comprehensive experience.

Travel Tips in Luoyang

• Best time to visit: Spring (April) is renowned for the Peony Festival, showcasing vibrant blooms and cultural events. Autumn (September–November) offers comfortable weather for sightseeing. (chinaexpeditiontours.com)

• How to get there and get around: Luoyang Longmen Station is well-connected by high-speed rail, with journeys from Xi'an taking approximately 1.5 hours and from Beijing around 4 hours. Within the city, buses are affordable ($0.15–$0.23 per ride), and taxis have a base fare of $1.15 for the first 2 kilometers, plus $0.23 per additional kilometer. (letstraveltochina.com)

• Safety: Luoyang is generally safe for travelers. Standard precautions are advisable, such as safeguarding personal belongings and avoiding isolated areas at night.

• Local customs, language, etiquette: Mandarin Chinese is the primary language; learning basic phrases can be helpful. When visiting temples, dress modestly and remove shoes when entering sacred areas. Tipping is uncommon and not expected.

• Must-know practical advice: Many attractions offer discounted tickets for students and seniors. Be prepared for crowds during the Peony Festival; booking accommodations and tickets in advance is recommended. To minimize environmental impact, consider using public transportation and reducing plastic usage.

Highlights & Things to Do in Luoyang

• Longmen Grottoes: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring over 100,000 Buddhist statues carved into limestone cliffs along the Yi River. Visiting at sunset provides a golden hour experience. (charmingchina.org)

• White Horse Temple: Established in 68 AD, it's considered China's first Buddhist temple. The temple complex includes international Buddhist halls with architectural styles from India, Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. (etripchina.com)

• Luoyang Museum: Showcases artifacts from various dynasties, including the renowned Cao Wei white jade cup. The museum's architecture reflects ancient Tang dynasty style. (en.wikipedia.org)

• Luoyang Old Town: A lively area filled with street food, traditional shops, handicrafts, and the famous Luoyang night market. Don't miss the Drum Tower area at night. (charmingchina.org)

• Guanlin Temple: A memorial built for Guan Yu, the legendary general from the Three Kingdoms era. The temple complex includes a museum and a pagoda. (charmingchina.org)

• Peony Festival: Held annually in April, this festival celebrates Luoyang's status as the Peony Cultural Capital of China. The city is adorned with over 200 cultivars of peonies, and the festival features parades, exhibitions, and cultural performances. (thechina.travel)

Prices & Costs in Luoyang (approximate in USD)

• Accommodation (per night, double):

  • Budget: $20–$40
  • Mid-range: $50–$100
  • Luxury: $120+

• Food:

  • Street/local meal: $2–$5
  • Mid-range restaurant: $10–$20
  • Daily basics: $10–$15

• Transport:

  • Local rides: $0.15–$0.23 per bus ride
  • Taxis: Base fare $1.15 for the first 2 km, plus $0.23 per additional km
  • Airport/destination transfer: Varies; approximately $10–$20

• Main attractions/entry fees:

  • Longmen Grottoes: $15
  • White Horse Temple: $5
  • Luoyang Museum: Free

• Daily budget range (excluding travel to the city):

  • Budget traveler: $30–$50
  • Mid-range traveler: $60–$120
  • Luxury traveler: $150+

Please note that prices can vary by season and personal preferences.

For a visual overview of Luoyang's attractions, you might find this video helpful:

Things to do in Luoyang - Luoyang Travel guide 🇨🇳