Luoyang, once the capital of 13 dynasties, is one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. It combines profound history, cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and culinary delights. From ancient imperial ruins to Buddhist grottoes, from majestic mountains to lively food streets, here is the ultimate travel guide to help you experience the past and present of Luoyang.
Must-Visit Attractions in Luoyang
1. Longmen Grottoes (5A Scenic Spot)
- UNESCO World Heritage Site, considered the finest of China’s three major grottoes.
- Highlights: The Lu She Na Buddha (modeled after Empress Wu Zetian), Wanfo Cave, Fengxian Temple.
- Ticket: ¥90 (includes West Hill, East Hill, Xiangshan Temple, Bai Garden).
- Tip: Visit in the morning for good lighting. Don’t miss the evening light show (separate ticket).
2. White Horse Temple (The First Buddhist Temple in China)
- The first government-established Buddhist temple in China after Buddhism’s arrival.
- Features: Qi Yun Pagoda, International Buddhist Hall (China, India, Myanmar, Thailand styles), Tang Dynasty stone pillars.
- Ticket: ¥35.
- Tip: Best in the morning, fewer crowds. In April, visit the nearby Peony Garden during bloom season.
3. Luoyang Museum (National First-Class Museum)
- Houses relics from the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, Tang Sancai ceramics, and stone carvings.
- Highlights: Bronze Jue cup from the Xia Dynasty, Wei Dynasty white jade cup, Tang sancai glazed horse.
- Ticket: Free (reservation required). Closed Mondays.
- Tip: Combine with the Sui-Tang Luoyang City Ruins (Yingtian Gate, Mingtang, Tiantang).
4. Laojun Mountain (5A Scenic Spot, Taoist Holy Land)
- Famous for golden Taoist temples, sea of clouds, and breathtaking sunrise views.
- Must-see: Golden Summit temples, Ten-mile Painting Gallery, Glass Viewing Platform.
- Ticket: ¥100. Cable car round trip: ¥130 (recommended).
- Tip: Stay overnight to catch sunrise. Stunning in winter snow, cool in summer.
5. Luoyi Ancient City (Free, Hanfu Photo Hotspot)
- Reconstructed ancient-style town, beautiful night scenery.
- Activities: Hanfu rental for photos, Wenfeng Pagoda light show.
- Ticket: Free (ID required).
- Tip: Go in the evening, then try snacks at nearby Shizi Street night market.
6. Sui-Tang Luoyang City National Heritage Park (Mingtang, Tiantang, Yingtian Gate)
- Rebuilt palace complex from Empress Wu Zetian’s reign.
- Must-see: Mingtang (Hall of Ten Thousand Images), Tiantang (Nine-story Buddhist tower), Yingtian Gate light show.
- Ticket: Mingtang & Tiantang ¥120, Yingtian Gate ¥30.
- Tip: Best at night for the light shows.
7. Erlitou Xia Capital Site Museum (The Earliest China)
- Archaeological site of the Xia Dynasty capital.
- Highlights: Turquoise dragon-shaped artifact, early bronze cups.
- Ticket: Free (reservation required).
Transportation
1、Arrival:
By Air: Luoyang Beijiao Airport (limited flights). Alternatively, fly to Zhengzhou Xinzheng Airport and take a 1-hour high-speed train.
By Train: Luoyang Longmen Station (near Longmen Grottoes), Luoyang Station (old town).
2、Getting Around:
Metro: 2 lines (Line 1 & 2) covering most main attractions.
Taxi: ¥6 starting fare.
Shared e-bikes: Convenient for short trips near old town attractions.
Local Food You Must Try
1. Luoyang Water Banquet (Shuixi)
- A traditional feast of 24 dishes (8 cold, 16 hot), famous for light soups and refreshing flavors.
- Signature dishes: Peony Swallow Dish, Lentang Pork Slices, Crispy Meatballs.
- Recommended restaurants: Zhenbudong Restaurant (time-honored), Xinghuacun Shuixi House.
2. Soup Culture
- Luoyang locals start the day with hot soup. Options include beef soup, lamb soup, meatball soup, donkey meat soup, mixed liver soup, and tofu soup.
- Must-try spots: Majiashan Beef Soup, Sandan Lamb Soup near Longmen.
3. Snacks
- Xiao Jie Potstickers: Thin, crispy dumplings with juicy filling.
- Xin’an Hot Dumplings: Steamed with a soft wrapper, pork filling.
- Luoning Sour Beef: Tangy, tender beef dish.
- Yanshi Rouhe: Crispy bread stuffed with marinated meat and peppers.
Accommodation Guide
- Old Town Area: Great for night markets (Lijing Gate, Shizi Street), strong historical vibe, but noisier.
- Luolong District: Convenient for Longmen Grottoes, museums, with modern malls and quieter hotels.
- Luanchuan County: Near Laojun Mountain, ideal for sunrise and mountain stays.
- Near Longmen Station: Convenient for travelers with tight schedules.
Suggested Itineraries
3-Day Trip
- Day 1: Longmen Grottoes → Luoyang Museum → Yingtian Gate night show
- Day 2: White Horse Temple → Luoyi Ancient City → Lijing Gate & Shizi Street night market
- Day 3: Full-day Laojun Mountain
5-Day Trip
- Day 1: Longmen Grottoes → Guanlin Temple → Kaiyuan Lake area
- Day 2: Sui-Tang Luoyang City Ruins → Canal Museum → Luoyi Ancient City
- Day 3: White Horse Temple → Ancient Tombs Museum
- Day 4: Full-day Laojun Mountain
- Day 5: Baiyun Mountain or Longtan Canyon
Best Time to Visit
- April: Peony Festival (Wangcheng Park, National Peony Garden).
- May–October: Perfect for mountain hikes (Laojun, Baiyun).
- Winter: Snow-covered Laojun Mountain is magical.
