Things To Do
in Luoyang
Luoyang, in Henan province at 34.6197, 112.4539, is one of China’s oldest cities with a history spanning more than 3,000 years. The city blends monumental relics with vibrant street life, from historic temples to lively markets. Key sights like the Longmen Grottoes and nearby Shaolin culture make day trips easy, while Luoyang’s own old streets reveal everyday life.
The climate and rivers give Luoyang a distinct atmosphere in every season.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by visiting the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning rock carvings and Buddhist statues. Spend the morning wandering through the intricately carved caves and learning about the history of these ancient relics. Take in the serene atmosphere along the Yi River, making it a perfect backdrop for photography.
Head to the Luoyang Museum to delve deeper into the city’s rich history, featuring artifacts from ancient dynasties. The museum provides a comprehensive overview of Luoyang's role in Chinese civilization, with exhibits showcasing cultural relics and interactive displays. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, sampling traditional dishes like Luoyang Water Banquet.
As the sun sets, visit the Wangcheng Park, where you can stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Look out for local performers showcasing traditional Chinese music and dance. Conclude your evening with a delightful dinner at a nearby restaurant, trying out more regional specialties.
Start your day with a visit to the White Horse Temple, the first Buddhist temple in China established during the Han Dynasty. Explore the temple grounds, which are adorned with beautiful gardens, ancient architecture, and serene statues. Take time to meditate in the peaceful surroundings and reflect on the profound history of Buddhism in China.
After lunch, embark on a bike ride along the scenic paths leading to the nearby Peony Garden. Spend the afternoon admiring the vibrant flowers and learning about Luoyang's reputation as the 'City of Peonies.' Capture stunning photos and relax in the garden’s tranquility.
Return to the city center to experience the lively night market at the Old Street. Sample a variety of street food, including the famous Luoyang dumplings and local snacks. The evening atmosphere is vibrant, filled with sounds, lights, and the aroma of delicious food.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee/tea in cafe | $2-5 |
| 🍲Mid-range dinner for two | $15-30 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich ancient heritage with iconic sites like Longmen Grottoes
- Excellent day-trip access to Shaolin and Mount Song
- Excellent street food and comforting Henan cuisine
- Generally affordable compared with bigger cities
- Can be crowded at major sights
- Nightlife is modest compared with coastal cities
- Language may be a barrier in more rural areas
- Some signage may be limited in English
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问洗手间在哪儿？" - Where is the restroom?
- "多少钱？" - How much is it?
- "我需要帮助" - I need help
Places to Visit in Luoyang
Visit one of these nice places.
An expansive cliff complex with thousands of Buddhist statues carved into limestone; dramatic morning and late-afternoon light enhances the details.
Ancient temple complex with tranquil courtyards and ponds; great for architectural and landscape photography.
A riverside stretch with bridges and reflections at dusk, ideal for wide-angle shots and street photography.
Historic walls and gates in the city center offer classic frame opportunities of old-town architecture and life.
Food in Luoyang
Luoyang Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A warming mutton and bread soup where crumbled flatbread soaks up rich broth; typically enjoyed with dipping sauces and pickles.
Must-Try!
Knife-cut noodles served in flavorful broths or with sesame sauce; a signature Henan noodle dish.
A traditional multi-dish meal featuring a variety of soups and small plates served together, reflecting Luoyang’s ceremonial dining style.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A cluster of stalls offering local bites like lamb skewers, steamed buns, dumplings, and sweet snacks along historic lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings and addressing elders with courtesy are valued. Remove shoes when entering some homes or certain traditional spaces.
Keep noise moderate in neighborhoods and religious sites; avoid public displays of anger and show appreciation when visiting temples.
Safety
Tipping in Luoyang
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in most ordinary eateries or public services in Luoyang, but it may be appreciated at high-end hotels, guided tours, or specialty services.
WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and markets. Cash is useful for smaller stalls, and major hotels may accept credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with occasional rain; ideal for walking tours and temple visits. Wear light layers and a compact umbrella.
Hot and humid with sunny days; carry water and a hat. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible; plan indoor pauses between outdoor activities.
Comfortable warmth and crisp air; one of the best times for photography and outdoor exploring.
Cold with possible frosts; occasional snow in higher elevations. Layered clothing and a warm coat are recommended.
Luoyang at Night
Hiking in Luoyang
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of China’s Five Great Mountains; forested trails, temples, and panoramic views near Dengfeng.
Green valleys and higher viewpoints along the Luo River valley with moderate hiking options.
Airports
How to reach Luoyang by plane.
Major hub about 2-3 hours by rail from Luoyang; wide international and domestic connections.
Another major gateway about 4-5 hours away by train; convenient for international connections.
Regional airport serving domestic flights; convenient for quick trips within China.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group with a growing urban culture.
Home to several colleges and cultural study programs.
Visitors drawn to ancient landmarks and historical sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and public courts; common pick-up games in parks.
A staple pastime in community centers and clubs.
Local interest influenced by nearby Shaolin traditions; practice and demonstrations occur around cultural sites.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Luoyang.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many places; look for dishes labeled qīngcài (vegetables) or mapo tofu-style dishes. You can ask for no meat stock and request fresh vegetables, tofu, or mushroom dishes; use the phrase 吃素 (chī sù) to indicate vegetarian needs.