Best Places to Visit in Luoyang: Luolong, Old City, Xigong, etc

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.

The city boasts a wealth of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and scenic attractions, offering a glimpse into over 5,000 years of civilization. Wondering where to visit in Luoyang? We've curated some of the best places to help you explore this dynamic city, where you'll discover a fascinating contrast between its ancient history and modern life.

Top 1: Luolong District

Hight lights: Longmen Grottoes, White Horse Temple, National Peony Garden, Luoyang Museum, Sui-Tang Luoyang City Ruins Museum, Guanlin Temple, Peony Pavilion.

Luolong District stretches across the eastern and western sides of Luoyang’s urban area. Along the banks of the Luo River and reaching south to Longmen Mountain, the district’s name reflects its historic connection to the river and the mountain, giving it a rich cultural backdrop.

Luolong District is at the heart of Luoyang’s history and culture, making it one of the city’s top destinations. Here, the majestic Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveal thousands of intricately carved Buddhist statues that capture the grandeur of ancient Chinese art. Just a short distance away, the White Horse Temple, China’s first Buddhist temple, offers insight into the origins and spread of Buddhism in the country. The district also celebrates Luoyang’s famous peonies, with the National Peony Garden in full bloom each spring providing a stunning seasonal spectacle. History lovers can explore the Luoyang Museum to trace 5,000 years of Chinese civilization or visit the Sui-Tang Luoyang City Ruins Museum to step back into the city’s imperial past.

Other highlights, such as Guanlin Temple, honoring the legendary general Guan Yu, and the elegant Peony Pavilion, further showcase Luolong’s unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty. With its rich mix of cultural treasures, seasonal blooms, and historic sites, Luolong District offers visitors a truly immersive Luoyang experience.

Top 2: Old City District- Old City with Rich History and Culture

Hight lights: Lijing Gate, Old City Cross Street, Luoyi Ancient Town, Sui-Tang Grand Canal Museum, Minzhu Street.

Old City District, located in the central-eastern and northern parts of Luoyang, the Old City District is the city’s most historic area and serves as the heart of Luoyang’s economy, culture, and commerce. Visitors can explore the remnants of the ancient capital, stroll through traditional markets, and admire iconic landmarks such as Lijing Gate. Wander along the Old City Cross Street, don traditional costumes in Luoyi Ancient Town, or take a journey through time at the Sui-Tang Grand Canal Museum. The district is also home to Luoyang’s liveliest food streets, including Minzhu Street and the Old City Cross Street Night Market, making it the perfect place to experience the city’s famous soup culture and savor local specialties like beef soup, donkey soup, and no-flip soup.

Its combination of landmarks, historic buildings, cultural attractions and food streets, makes Old city district a must-visit area for those exploring Luoyang’s past and present.

Top 3: Xigong District

Hight lights: Mingtang Hall, Ancient Tombs Museum, Jiuzhou Pond, Yingtian Gate, Wangcheng Park, Emperor's Chariot Museum.

Xigong District blends Luoyang’s vibrant modern life with a rich imperial history, making it a top destination for visitors. Once the political and financial heart of ancient Luoyang, the district is home to Mingtang Hall, were Empress Wu Zetian reportedly managed state affairs. History comes alive at the Ancient Tombs Museum, and Emperor's Chariot Museum, while landmarks like Jiuzhou Pond, Yingtian Gate, and Wangcheng Park showcase the city’s grand past. Strolling through Xigong, travelers can experience the perfect mix of bustling streets, cultural treasures, and historical charm, making it one of Luoyang’s best places to explore.

Since 1999, the International Pilgrimage Ceremony has been held here every October, 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.

Top 4: Luanchuan County

Luanchuan County, a captivating destination in western Luoyang, is renowned for its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. Mount Laojun, a sacred Taoist Mountain, is famous for its golden summit temple and breathtaking sea of clouds. Jiguan Cave, known as the “first cave under heaven,” impresses visitors with its magnificent stalactites and dazzling underground formations. Chongdugou Scenic Area offers refreshing waterfalls, clear streams, and lush forests, ideal for nature lovers. In winter, the Funiu Mountain Ski Resort becomes a popular spot for skiing and snow adventures. Together, these attractions make Luanchuan a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural charm.

Top 5: Dengfeng - Shaolin Temple

Dengfeng, home to the world-famous Shaolin Temple, is one of the best places to visit near Luoyang for anyone interested in Chinese culture, martial arts, and ancient architecture. As the birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Shaolin Kung Fu, the temple has stood for over 1,500 years, surrounded by the sacred peaks of Mount Song, one of China’s Five Great Mountains. Visitors can explore magnificent ancient halls, watch captivating martial arts performances by Shaolin monks, and even experience meditation or Kung Fu training firsthand.

Beyond the temple, the area is rich in history and spirituality, with landmarks such as the Pagoda Forest and Songyang Academy offering a glimpse into China’s profound philosophical and educational traditions. A visit to Shaolin Temple is not just a sightseeing trip—it’s a journey into the heart of Chinese wisdom and resilience.

Top 6: Xin’an County- Longtan Grand Canyon

Xin’an County, located in the western part of Luoyang, is a hidden gem celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and unique geological formations. The county’s highlight, Longtan Grand Canyon, is one of the most spectacular canyons in China, featuring towering red cliffs, crystal-clear streams, and picturesque waterfalls that create a breathtaking scene of color and light. Beyond the canyon, Xin’an offers serene countryside views, ancient villages, and a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the grandeur of the landscape. Whether you’re an adventurer, a nature lover, or a photographer, Xin’an County is one of the best places to experience the harmony between nature’s power and tranquility.

Top 7: Song County- Baiyun Mountain

Song County is one of the best places to visit in Luoyang for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Nestled in the Funiu Mountain range, it offers breathtaking natural scenery, lush forests, and dramatic peaks often shrouded in mist. Baiyun Mountain, often hailed as “the most beautiful mountain in central China,” is one of the best places to visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Known for its stunning sea of clouds, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests, the mountain offers breathtaking views throughout the year.

Visitors can hike along scenic trails, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and enjoy panoramic vistas from its peaks. Whether you come for a peaceful retreat, an adventure in nature, or simply to admire the beauty of changing seasons, Baiyun Mountain is a perfect escape from the bustle of city life.

Top 8: Peony Garden

• 1. International Peony Garden – Showcasing a dazzling variety of peonies from around the world, this garden is a vibrant display of international floral beauty.
• 2. National Peony Garden – Home to the finest and rarest peony species in China, it represents the country’s rich peony heritage and royal elegance.
• 3. Wangcheng Park – One of Luoyang’s most popular spots during the Peony Festival, where colorful blooms meet cultural performances and local festivities.
• 4. China National Flower Garden – A grand garden dedicated to China’s national flower, blending natural beauty with traditional Chinese landscaping.
• 5. Sui-Tang Botanical Garden – Combining lush peony fields with historical charm, it recreates the flourishing gardens of the Sui and Tang dynasties.
• 6. Shenzhou Peony Garden – Known for its vast peony varieties and themed landscapes, it offers visitors a spectacular and immersive floral experience.

Info：Distances from city center to various attractions:

• Longmen Grottoes: 16 km 21 minutes
• Guanlin Temple: 14km 15 minutes
• White Horse Temple: 17 km 25 minutes
• Luoyang Museum: 6.5 km 15 minutes
• Luoyi Ancient City: 3.8 km 5 minutes
• Shaolin Temple: 62 km 1.5 hours
• Wancheng Park: 4 km 5 minutes
• Ancient Tomb Museum: 9 km 15 minutes
• Longtan Grand Canyon: 76 km 1.5 hours
• Laojun Mountain: 170 km 2.5 hours
• Baiyun Mountain: 200 km 3 hours

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