Things To Do
in Luoyang

Luoyang, located in the Henan province of China, is one of the ancient capitals of China with a history spanning over 3,000 years. It is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, including the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city is also famous for its beautiful peonies and is often referred to as the 'Peony City' of China.

With a blend of historical significance and modern development, Luoyang offers a unique glimpse into both ancient and contemporary Chinese life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Ancient Heritage
morning
:

Visit the Longmen Grottoes, marveling at the thousands of Buddha statues carved into the cliffs.

afternoon
:

Head to the Luoyang Museum to learn about the city's rich history and view ancient artifacts.

evening
:

Stroll through the Old Town area and enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start the day at the Peony Garden, particularly beautiful in spring when the flowers bloom.

afternoon
:

Visit the White Horse Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in China.

evening
:

Experience local street food at the Night Market, trying various local snacks and delicacies.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of noodles$2
🥟Dumplings (10 pieces)$4
🍵Tea at a restaurant$3
🥡Street food snack$1
🏨Budget hotel per night$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with numerous historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine and vibrant food markets.
  • Beautiful natural scenery, especially during spring and autumn.
  • Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Summer heat can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities.
  • Some attractions may be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "我不明白" - I don't understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Luoyang

Visit one of these nice places.

Longmen Grottoes

A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring thousands of intricately carved Buddha statues, perfect for stunning photographs.

Peony Garden

A beautiful garden showcasing thousands of peony flowers, especially vibrant in spring.

White Horse Temple

An ancient Buddhist temple with picturesque architecture and serene surroundings, ideal for capturing the essence of spirituality.

Culinary Guide

Food in Luoyang

Luoyang is a culinary delight, offering a variety of local dishes that reflect its historical and cultural roots. Must-try dishes include the famous Luoyang Water Banquet, a multi-course meal served in a unique style. Street food is abundant, especially around the night markets, where you can find delicious snacks that capture the essence of local flavors. Restaurants cater to various dietary preferences, but it's advisable to communicate any restrictions clearly due to the prevalence of soy sauce and cooking oils in Chinese cuisine.

Luoyang Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Luoyang Water Banquet

A delicate multi-course meal featuring a variety of dishes served with a unique broth.

Must-Try!

Sliced Noodles (Dao Xiao Mian)

Handmade wheat noodles served with a rich broth and various toppings.

Peony Pastries

Sweet pastries shaped like peony flowers, often filled with sweet bean paste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Luoyang Night Market

A vibrant market offering an array of street food, snacks, and local delicacies to try.

Qianxi Food Street

Famous for its grilled skewers and traditional local snacks, perfect for an evening stroll.

Climate Guide

Weather

Luoyang experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures and is considered the best time for outdoor activities, with averages between 10°C and 25°C (50°F to 77°F). Winter (December to February) is cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C (32°F), and occasional snowfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake or a slight bow is customary. Addressing people with their titles or family names is respectful.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and use chopsticks properly, avoiding sticking them upright in rice.

Respect for Tradition

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites like temples and during festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Luoyang is generally considered safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to take standard precautions: keep your belongings secure, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and stay aware of your surroundings. For health emergencies, knowing the location of nearby hospitals or clinics is recommended, and it's wise to have travel insurance.

Tipping in Luoyang

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not a common practice in China, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Mobile payment apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used, and cash is less common. Credit cards are accepted in many larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather and blooming peonies make it a perfect time to visit, especially during the Peony Festival.

Summer

Hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Stay hydrated and plan for indoor activities during the hottest part of the day.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant fall foliage create a picturesque environment for outdoor activities.

Winter

Cold, with temperatures dropping below 0°C (32°F). Snow is rare but can occur, providing a different charm to the city's attractions.

Nightlife Guide

Luoyang at Night

Luoyang's nightlife is a blend of traditional and modern experiences, with a variety of options ranging from lively night markets to quiet tea houses. The Night Market is particularly popular, offering an array of street food and local delicacies, ideal for an evening stroll. Bars and lounges offer a more contemporary experience, often featuring live music and entertainment. Traditional tea houses provide a tranquil environment for a more relaxed night out, where you can enjoy tea and cultural performances.

Hiking in Luoyang

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Meng

A scenic hiking trail located near Luoyang, known for its lush landscapes and historical significance as one of the Five Sacred Mountains of China.

Yinshan Mountain Trail

A moderately challenging hike offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside and unique geological formations.

Airports

How to reach Luoyang by plane.

Luoyang Beijiao Airport

The primary airport serving Luoyang, offering domestic flights to major cities in China and limited international flights. It is located about 12 kilometers from the city center.

Getting Around

Walkability

Luoyang is fairly walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian-friendly areas provide a pleasant environment for exploring on foot. However, some attractions may require public transport or taxis due to their distance from the main urban area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Luoyang, with a rich cultural heritage and traditions that dominate the local customs and practices.

Minority Groups

Includes various ethnic minorities, such as Hui and Manchu, who contribute to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played in Luoyang, with local courts available in parks and schools, making it a popular pastime among the youth.

Tai Chi

Tai Chi is practiced by many residents, especially in parks, as a form of exercise and meditation, reflecting the city's cultural heritage.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Luoyang can be congested during peak hours, particularly in the city center. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around. The city is also developing its metro system to improve transportation options. Biking is a popular alternative, with many locals using bicycles to navigate through the streets.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Luoyang.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Vegetarian dishes are available, but it's advisable to specify to avoid meat-based broths.

Gluten-Free

While options are limited, rice dishes are widely available, and it's best to inquire about ingredients.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Luoyang is adequate, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and travelers. Major hospitals offer a range of medical services, and many have English-speaking staff. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are also widely available for purchasing common medications.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide