Luoyang Travel Guide – Attractions, Things to Do and More
Few cities in China, even the world rival the long history of Luoyang. With a history of over 5,000 years and once served as the capital of 13 ancient Chinese dynasties, Luoyang is regularly referred to as one of the cradles of Chinese civilization.
The city has witnessed many of the nation’s significant periods. It is known as the birthplace of Taoism, a center of Confucianism, and the site where Buddhism first spread to China. Here, you can witness the UNESCO-listed Longmen Grottoes and White Horse Temple. And, see its historical significance further evident in multiple archaeological sites, including the Erlitou site, Yanshi Shangcheng site, the Luoyang Ruins of the Sui and Tang Dynasties, and cultural sites along the Sui-Tang Grand Canal.
Follow our Luoyang Travel Guide to discover all its hidden gems. Tips on things to do, the best time to visit, and transportation will help you enjoy a smooth and memorable Luoyang tour.
The city has witnessed many of the nation’s significant periods. It is known as the birthplace of Taoism, a center of Confucianism, and the site where Buddhism first spread to China. Here, you can witness the UNESCO-listed Longmen Grottoes and White Horse Temple. And, see its historical significance further evident in multiple archaeological sites, including the Erlitou site, Yanshi Shangcheng site, the Luoyang Ruins of the Sui and Tang Dynasties, and cultural sites along the Sui-Tang Grand Canal.
Follow our Luoyang Travel Guide to discover all its hidden gems. Tips on things to do, the best time to visit, and transportation will help you enjoy a smooth and memorable Luoyang tour.
Location: In the western part of Henan Province, on the banks of the middle and lower reaches of the Yellow River.
Chinese Name: 洛阳 (luò yáng)
Area: 15,230 square kilometers
Population: 7,079,000
Zip Code: 410300
Chinese Name: 洛阳 (luò yáng)
Area: 15,230 square kilometers
Population: 7,079,000
Zip Code: 410300
Why Visit Luoyang
- Profound history and rich historical sites: Among the ancient capital cities in China, Luoyang boasts the longest history, the earliest establishment as a capital, and the most dynasties. It is home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Longmen Grottoes, and cultural sites along the Grand Canal, and the Silk Road, and many other historical heritage.
- Luoyang Peony Festival: Known as the “Home of Peonies,” Luoyang hosts the Peony Festival every year in around mid-April. By then, the city will attract travelers home and abroad with its stunning floral spectacle.
- Rich and diverse food culture: Luoyang also boasts a wide variety of delicious local dishes, like the famous Luoyang Water Feast (Shuixi), beef soup, lamb soup, Jiangmian, which offer an experience of the essence of Central China’s flavors.
Top Luoyang Tourist Attractions
Rich in history and cultural heritage, Luoyang is steeped with a wealth of historical landmarks, including Longmen Grottoes, White Horse Temple, Erlitou Site, etc. Each of these attractions in Luoyang showcases the brilliant culture of ancient China.
Longmen GrottoesOne of China’s four major grottoes, Longmen Grottoes boasts the most extensive collections of ancient stone carvings in the world. Its construction lasted over 1,400 years, from the Northern Wei Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty. Now, the site consists of 2,345 caves and niches, housing more than 110,000 statues, and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
White Horse Temple The White Horse Temple is the first state-sponsored Buddhist temple established after the introduction of Buddhism to China. It is often called the “Cradle of Chinese Buddhism”, featuring architectural styles from different countries, and many precious Buddhist relics.
Luoyang MuseumLuoyang Museum rivals many provincial museums regarding collection, scale, and strength. It houses numerous treasured artifacts, including bronze ritual vessels from the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties, Han and Tang terracotta figurines, Tang tri-colored glazed pottery, and Song dynasty ceramics.
Tianzi Jialiu MuseumThe Tianzi Jialiu Museum focuses on the large-scale chariot and horse pits from the Eastern Zhou Dynasty. The “Tianzi Jialiu” chariot and horse pit is its top highlight, showing the grand spectacle of royal chariot systems, ceremonial culture, and social hierarchy during that period.
Erlitou Site MuseumThe site is believed to be the capital of the late Xia Dynasty – the first dynasty in China. The rich archaeological findings at this site, such as exquisite pottery and jade artifacts, offer a glimpse into the early civilization of China.
Luoyang Ruins of the Sui and Tang DynastiesAn important archaeological site showcases the urban planning and splendor of Luoyang City during the Sui and Tang Dynasties. Here, visitors can see the palace city, Mingtang, Tiantang, Jiuzhou Pool, along with numerous remnants of palaces, temples, and gardens.
Wangcheng ParkWangcheng Park is the birthplace and main venue of the Luoyang Peony Festival. Besides the peony viewing area, the park also has a historical and cultural area, an amusement area, and a zoo to offer a comprehensive cultural, recreational, and natural experience.
Top Things to Do in Luoyang
Luoyang Peony Festival
An annual highlight in Luoyang, the Peony Culture Festival, is held in April each year and lasts for about a month. Luoyang, as the Peony Capital, is known for its rich history and vibrant peony culture. During the festival, the many famous peony gardens, such as Wangcheng Park, Sui-Tang City Ruins Botanical Garden, and the Chinese National Flower Garden will together offer visitors a visual banquet. All these gardens will be decorated into stunning displays of vibrant color by a wide variety of blooming peonies.
Take a Luoyang Night Tour
As night falls, the city lights bring a new life to this historical city. The illuminated architecture in the Luoyang Ruins of the Sui-Tang Dynasty seems more stunning than in the daytime.
In the Ancient City of Luoyi, more than ancient structures, the many evening ceremonies, and peonies-themed performances offer an immersive experience of traditional Chinese poetry and art.
The city also has no shortage of vibrant night markets. Xigong Alley, the Old City’s Shizi Street, and Jianxi Guangzhou Road Night Market are all hotspots to seek local traditional snacks and delicacies.
In the Ancient City of Luoyi, more than ancient structures, the many evening ceremonies, and peonies-themed performances offer an immersive experience of traditional Chinese poetry and art.
The city also has no shortage of vibrant night markets. Xigong Alley, the Old City’s Shizi Street, and Jianxi Guangzhou Road Night Market are all hotspots to seek local traditional snacks and delicacies.
Luoyang Weather & Best Time to Visit
Luoyang belongs to a warm temperate continental monsoon climate, featuring distinct seasons, ample sunlight, and significant seasonal variation in temperature and precipitation. It has hot and rainy summers, cold and dry winters, and mild and sunny springs and autumns.
The annual average temperature is about 14.8°C, with summer averages usually hovering around 19.0℃-31.0℃, and winter averages typically below 0°C.
The best times to visit Luoyang are primarily in the spring and autumn. These periods offer stunning natural scenery, rich cultural activities, and mild weather. April to early May is especially the high season for blooming peonies.
Recommended Tour: 16 Days China Silk Road Tour in Spring
The annual average temperature is about 14.8°C, with summer averages usually hovering around 19.0℃-31.0℃, and winter averages typically below 0°C.
The best times to visit Luoyang are primarily in the spring and autumn. These periods offer stunning natural scenery, rich cultural activities, and mild weather. April to early May is especially the high season for blooming peonies.
Recommended Tour: 16 Days China Silk Road Tour in Spring
Hotels in Luoyang
Visitors can find a wide range of hotels in Luoyang, from high-end luxury hotels, 4- and 5-star hotels to 3-star hotels, budget-friendly chains, and unique local guesthouses.
When taking a Luoyang trip, you can stay in any of the following recommended accommodation areas based on your travel needs and preferences:
When taking a Luoyang trip, you can stay in any of the following recommended accommodation areas based on your travel needs and preferences:
- Xigong District: In the heart of the city; with convenient public transportation; easy access to major attractions.
- Luoyang Old City: Surrounded by historical landmarks; perfect for leisurely walks and sightseeing; many eateries and night markets.
- Luolong District: A newer district that is more peaceful, near the Longmen High-speed Rail Station; ideal for those who arrive or depart by high-speed train.
- Guanlin Town: About 5km away from Longmen Grottoes; allows you to visit the grottoes in the early morning.
Luoyang Transportation: How to Get to & Travel around
How to Get to
Flights to Luoyang: Luoyang Beijiao Airport is about 10 km from the city center. The airport now offers direct flights to or from major cities in the country, including Shanghai, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, etc.
Visitors can also fly to Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport from most cities in the country, and then take a bus or high-speed train to reach Luoyang.
By Train: Taking a high-speed train to Luoyang is also comfortable and efficient. The Luoyang Longmen High-Speed Rail Station is adjacent to the Longmen Grottoes, making it easy for tourists to plan their trips. The high-speed train journey from other cities to Luoyang:
Visitors can also fly to Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport from most cities in the country, and then take a bus or high-speed train to reach Luoyang.
By Train: Taking a high-speed train to Luoyang is also comfortable and efficient. The Luoyang Longmen High-Speed Rail Station is adjacent to the Longmen Grottoes, making it easy for tourists to plan their trips. The high-speed train journey from other cities to Luoyang:
- Beijing to Luoyang: 4-4.5 hours
- Xian to Luoyang: 1.5 hours
- Zhengzhou to Luoyang: 30-40 minutes
- Chengdu to Luoyang: 4-5 hours
- Shanghai to Luoyang: 5.5-6.5 hours
Getting around Luoyang
As of January 2025, Luoyang has two metro lines. Both metro lines will offer easy access to Luoyang Old City and most historical sites in the city area.
Bus No. 56 or No. 58 will take you to White Horse Temple, and Bus No. 71 and 81 will take you to Longmen Grottoes.
To reach further attractions, taxis are also readily available for your flexible and convenient transfer.
Bus No. 56 or No. 58 will take you to White Horse Temple, and Bus No. 71 and 81 will take you to Longmen Grottoes.
To reach further attractions, taxis are also readily available for your flexible and convenient transfer.
Recommended Silk Road Tours including Luoyang
5 Days East Part Silk Road Tour of Xian and LuoyangLongmen Grottoes, White Horse Temple, Xian Ancient City Wall, Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Xi’an Museum, etc.
12 Days China Silk Road Tour from Beijing to LuoyangYardang National Geologic Park, Mogao Grottoes, Yumen Pass, Jiayuguan Pass, Maiji Mountain, Terracotta Army, White Horse Temple, Longmen Grottoes, etc.
3 Days Essence of Luoyang TourLongmen Grottoes, Fengxian Temple, Luoyang Museum, Luoyang Old City, White Horse Temple, Shaolin Temple, Kung Fu show, etc.
