Luoyang, Central China

Luoyang, located in Henan Province, is one of China’s ancient capitals and the cradle of Chinese civilization. Known as the “City of Peonies,” Luoyang boasts a rich history that spans over 4,000 years and offers a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty.

 

Tourist Attractions in Luoyang

1. Longmen Grottoes

  • Description: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Longmen Grottoes are a treasure trove of Buddhist art with over 100,000 statues carved into limestone cliffs.
  • Entrance Fee: ¥90 (low season), ¥120 (high season)
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (varies seasonally)
  • Highlights: The Fengxian Temple and the Vairocana Buddha statue are must-see sculptures.

2. White Horse Temple

  • Description: Known as the first Buddhist temple in China, it is a serene place to explore Chinese Buddhist culture.
  • Entrance Fee: ¥50
  • Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Highlights: Beautifully landscaped grounds and ancient structures.

3. Luoyang Museum

  • Description: A modern museum showcasing Luoyang’s 4,000-year history.
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
  • Highlights: Exhibits of ancient artifacts, including bronze vessels and Tang Dynasty relics.

4. Guanlin Temple

  • Description: A shrine dedicated to the famous General Guan Yu of the Three Kingdoms era.
  • Entrance Fee: ¥40
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
  • Highlights: The unique blend of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism.

5. Peony Festival (Seasonal)

  • Description: Held annually in April, the festival celebrates Luoyang’s famous peonies with stunning displays.
  • Entrance Fee: ¥20-¥50 (varies by venue)
  • Highlights: Various parks filled with blooming peonies.

 

How to Get There

  1. By Air:

    • Fly to Luoyang Beijiao Airport. It is 10 km from the city center. Taxis and airport shuttles are available.

  2. By Train:

    • High-speed trains connect Luoyang to major cities like Beijing, Xi’an, and Zhengzhou. Use Luoyang Longmen Railway Station for high-speed rail services.

  3. By Bus:

    • Long-distance buses are available from nearby cities like Zhengzhou and Xi’an.

 

Getting Around

  1. Public Buses: Affordable and extensive network covering major attractions. Fares are around ¥1-2.
  2. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps: Taxis start at ¥8. Ride-hailing apps like Didi are popular.
  3. Bicycle Rentals: Available for eco-friendly exploration. Prices start at ¥10/hour.
  4. Tourist Shuttles: Operate between major attractions like Longmen Grottoes and White Horse Temple.

 

Popular Local Food

  1. Water Banquet (Shui Xi): A traditional Luoyang feast with 24 dishes, mainly soups.
  2. Luoyang Peony Cake: A sweet pastry inspired by the city’s iconic flower.
  3. Yancai Soup (Swallow Dish Soup): A light and flavorful local soup.
  4. Tangmian Jiaozi: Delicious dumplings in broth.

 

Top Nightlife Spots

1. Xigong Night Market

  • Description: A bustling night market with local food stalls, souvenirs, and entertainment.
  • How to Get There: Located in Xigong District; take a taxi or bus.
  • Entrance Fee: Free
  • Happy Hours: None officially, but vendors often offer discounts later in the evening.

2. Luoyang Old Town

  • Description: A lively area with bars, tea houses, and live music venues.
  • How to Get There: Accessible by taxi or local bus.
  • Entrance Fee: Free to explore; individual establishments may charge.

3. 1919 Bar Street

  • Description: A collection of modern bars and clubs offering a vibrant atmosphere.
  • How to Get There: Near Luoyang Longmen Railway Station.
  • Entrance Fee: Free entry for most bars; drinks range from ¥30-¥100.
  • Happy Hours: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM at some bars, offering discounts on beers and cocktails.

Luoyang offers a perfect blend of ancient charm and modern experiences, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and leisure travelers alike.