Luoyang Travel Guide, an Insider Cultural Trip Plan

Luoyang, located in the heart of Henan Province, forms a golden triangle of history and culture with Xi’an to the west and Zhengzhou to the east. Situated in the eastern section of the Eurasian landmass, Luoyang stretches across both banks of the Yellow River and lies at the very center of China, earning it the title of the hinterland of the nation since ancient times. This strategic location has made Luoyang a key destination for exploring the origins of Chinese civilization.

For more than 1,500 years, Luoyang served as the capital of thirteen dynasties, beginning in 770 BC, when Emperor Zhouping relocated his capital to Luoyi (today’s Luoyang). Since ancient times, the city has been a gathering place for scholars and poets from across the country, earning it the reputation of “the Capital of Poems.” Its flourishing peonies have also brought it the famed title of “the City of Flowers.” Throughout history, Luoyang has held many distinguished identities: the first imperial capital of China, one of the nation’s eight ancient capitals, one of the first famous historical and cultural cities recognized by the State Council, a starting point of the Silk Road, and the only city in Chinese history ever honored with the title “Amazing Capital.”

Culture of Luoyang

Luoyi Ancient Town

Luoyang, abbreviated as “Luo” and historically known as Zhongguo, Shendu, Luoyi, Chengzhou, and Luojing, is named for its location north of the Luo River in Henan Province. Luoyang stands alongside Xi’an, Beijing, and Nanjing as one of China’s Four Great Ancient Capitals. From its origins during the Xia and Shang dynasties to its prosperity under the Zhou and Han, and its peak during the Sui and Tang periods, the city has witnessed countless dynastic changes and historical transformations. Serving as the political, economic, and cultural heart of the nation for centuries, Luoyang truly stands as a timeless symbol of China’s enduring heritage.

Heluo culture represents the core and source of China’s 5,000-year Huaxia civilization. As the eastern starting point of the Silk Road, Luoyang has witnessed extensive cultural exchange and integration between East and West. Its central position along the Grand Canal during the Sui and Tang dynasties further established Luoyang as a prosperous capital of numerous dynasties. The city also played a foundational role in Confucianism, served as the birthplace of Daoism, introduced Buddhism to China, and became a formative center for metaphysics and Neo-Confucianism.

Today, Luoyang covers a total area of approximately 15,200 square kilometers and is home to a permanent population of around 7.08 million.

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Must-visit Attractions, what to visit

Lingmen Grottoes

As the earliest-built ancient capital in Chinese history, Luoyang has gone through many dynasties that other ancient capitals can’t compare to, it is hailed one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. As one of China’s outstanding tourist cities and a renowned city, it is home to a wealth of world cultural heritages, with numerous famous attractions, including 69 tourist sites. Among them, the Longmen Grottoes are one of China’s three largest-scale grottoes; White Horse Temple is the first government-sponsored Buddhist temple in China and Luoyang Ancient Tomb Museum houses the world’s largest ancient tomb complex. Also, it has other historic heritage sites such as Ercheng Tomb, White Garden and the Memorial Hall of Guanyu. The magnificent natural landscapes such as the scenic Luoyang National Peony Garden and Laojun Mount offering a harmonious blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty.

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Local Food and Snacks

Luoyang cuisine is generally bold in flavor, leaning toward salty and spicy tastes. The city offers a wide variety of soups, with the Luoyang Water Banquet—a national intangible cultural heritage—being its most famous culinary treasure. Together with the Peony Festival and Longmen Grottoes, it forms the “Three Wonders of Luoyang.”

In this ancient city, known as the “City of Soup,” drinking soup is more than a culinary habit—it is a lifestyle and a way to experience the city’s distinctive charm.Beyond the Water Banquet, other iconic local soups include beef soup, mutton soup, donkey soup, and Bufan Tang, each showcasing the richness of Luoyang’s soup culture.

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Weather, when is best time and season to visit

Pagoda Forest

When is the best time or season to visit Luoyang?

The best/most suitable time to visit Luoyang is widely considered to be during the Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) months. During these seasons, when the weather is warm and pleasant. the temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C (59°F-86°F), —ideal for exploring the city's rich and diverse attractions. Whether you’re admiring blooming flowers, hiking in the mountains, savoring local cuisine, or immersing yourself in cultural experiences, both seasons offer something special for every traveler. The Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes are also at their most enjoyable during this time, allowing visitors to explore these iconic landmarks in comfortable weather and without the disruption of summer rain or winter cold.

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Top destinations, where to visit

White horse Temple

Welcome to Luoyang — one of those rare places where China's national flower, the peony, blooms in all its elegance; where thirteen dynasties established their capitals; where magnificent grottoes tell stories of ancient glory; and where the Silk Road began its journey eastward.

Luolong District, at the heart of Luoyang’s history and culture, making it one of the city’s top destinations.

Old City District is the city’s most historic area and serves as the heart of Luoyang’s economy, culture, and commerce.

Xigong District blends Luoyang’s vibrant modern life with a rich imperial history, making it a top destination for visitors.

In a nutshell, all those destinations offer their own incredible charm.

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Best Things to do in Luoyang

Sholin Kungfu

Luoyang, one of China’s oldest capitals, invites travelers to experience its rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From exploring the ancient Buddhist Longmen Grottoes and the legendary Shaolin Temple to strolling through old streets alive with tradition, every corner reveals traces of its glorious past. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic views of Laojun Mountain, the vibrant spring peony blossoms, experience the art of Shaolin Kung Fu, and savor the city’s renowned Water Banquet — each offering a vivid glimpse into the elegance and vitality of this timeless city. Many more exciting things to do await your discovery in Luoyang.

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Interesting hands-on activities

Luoyang Museum

Henan Province, with 5,000 years of continuous civilisation, had been the political, economic and cultural centre of Chinese ancient empires for more than 3,000 years. From breath-taking Buddhist stone art at Longmen Grottoes to powerful and legendary moves of Chinese martial art practising by monks at Shaolin Temple, you will feast your eyes and soul with wonderful products of ancient Chinese wisdom. On this captivating land, discover places that hold beautiful traces and fascinating stories of those great empires.

Through these experiences, get away from all worries, simply relax and enjoy the fun of these activities.

Luoyang Peony Festival (April–May)：The Luoyang Peony Festival is the city’s most iconic cultural event, held annually from April to May with the exact dates adjusted according to the blooming season of the peonies. With the theme “Blossoms in Luoyang, Youth in Full Bloom,” the festival features a wide range of activities, including flower appreciation, cultural exhibitions, and trade fairs, offering visitors a vibrant experience of Luoyang’s charm and vitality.

Guanlin International Pilgrimage Ceremony (Held Annually on Guan Yu’s Birthday): is an annual event held in Luoyang to honor Guan Yu, the legendary general of the Three Kingdoms, attracting participants from around the world to pay tribute and celebrate his legacy.

Laba Festival (the Eighth Day of the Twelfth Lunar Month): The Laba Festival is an important traditional folk festival in Luoyang. Its origins trace back to ancient rituals of ancestor worship and sacrifice to various deities.

Danao Ceremony: Although not an independent festival, the Danao Ceremony is an important folk ritual held on the day before Laba Festival (traditionally the third xu day after the Winter Solstice, later fixed on the eighth day of the twelfth lunar month).

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Luxury Hotel in Luoyang

When choosing where to stay in Luoyang, the best option is generally to book a hotel in the city center. Most major attractions, such as the Longmen Grottoes, White Horse Temple, and the Luoyang Museum, are easily accessible from downtown, and transportation is convenient with nearby metro lines and bus routes. Staying in the city center also places you close to bustling shopping areas, traditional food streets, and the lively night markets, making it easy to experience the city’s rich culture and local lifestyle. For example: Ramada Hotel, Luoyang International Hotel, Marriott Hotel, Luoyang Chrysler Inn Hotel, Huamao Chunsong Hotel, etc.

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How to Plan an Itinerary in Luoyang

Visiting the top classic attractions in Luoyang takes about 1- 2 full days. Adding arrival and departure time, you'll need approximately 2-3 days.

Here some suggestion for 3 days sightseeing in Luoyang

• Day1: Arrival, stroll Luoyang Ancient Town and visit Peony Park, enjoy the city's famous flowers and relax in the park's gardens.
• Day2: Start your day with a visit to the famous temple. Baima (White Horse) Temple. Admire the Luoyang Museum. visit Guanlin Temple. Xingwang (Star) Shopping Center: Go shopping for souvenirs and gifts in the evening.
• Day3: Visit the famous Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the morning. Learn about the birthplace of Shaolin kung fu at Shaolin Temple. Take a scenic hike to the top of the Guishan mountain and enjoy stunning views. End trip and departure in the evening.
• All the itinerary are flexible. Just contact us, please. We would be honored to customize a perfect, personalized itinerary specifically for you.

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Customize Your Authentic Luoyan Tour

If you are interested in the Luoyang itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Luoyang Tour, please visit our Henan Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

Informative Articles for Your Luoyang Trip

Luoyang

• Travel Guide: attractions, weather, hotels, food, etc.
• Weather: best time and seasons to visit Luoyang
• Top attractions: well-selected top attractions in Luoyang
• Local culture: brief history, folk culture, festivals, etc.
• Top destinations: best places to visit in Luoyang
• Travel itineraries: itineraries for your reference
• Abundant activities: Luoyan cultural immersions
• Unique perspective: top interesting things to do
• Local food: what to eat while traveling in Luoyan
• Luxury hotels: accommodation to stay in Luoyang
• Luoyang Tours: customized tours for your reference