Planning Your Trip to Luoyang
Essential Information
Country and Province
China, Henan Province
Time Zone
GMT+8 (China Standard Time)
Languages Spoken
Mandarin Chinese (Putonghua)
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Weather and Climate in Luoyang: A Month-by-Month Guide
Spring (March-May): Mild temperatures, occasional rain, blossoming flowers. 10-25°C (50-77°F). Ideal for visiting!
Summer (June-August): Hot and humid, with frequent rainfall. 25-35°C (77-95°F). Pack light clothing.
Autumn (September-November): Pleasant and sunny, with cooler temperatures. 15-25°C (59-77°F). Great for sightseeing.
Winter (December-February): Cold and dry, with occasional snow. -5-10°C (23-50°F). Bring warm layers.
Luoyang: A City of History and Modernity
Luoyang, in Henan province, is a historically significant city and a former capital of China. As the capital for thirteen dynasties, Luoyang is rich in cultural heritage, ancient ruins, and scenic landscapes. See modern skyscrapers alongside ancient temples and pagodas. Luoyang, strategically located along the ancient Silk Road, became a key cultural and economic center. Visit the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and experience the Luoyang Peony Festival. Luoyang provides a captivating travel experience.
Best Time to Visit Luoyang for Ideal Weather
Spring (April-May): Enjoy the Luoyang Peony Festival and comfortable temperatures.
Autumn (September-October): Experience pleasant weather for outdoor activities and exploring the sites.
Seasonal Pros and Cons for Planning your Trip
Spring (April-May):
Pros: Blooming peonies, mild weather, vibrant colors.
Cons: Crowds during the Peony Festival, occasional showers.
Autumn (September-October):
Pros: Comfortable temperatures, clear skies, excellent for photography.
Cons: Popular tourist season, so some attractions might be busier.
Summer (June-August):
Pros: Lush greenery, fewer crowds, potential for lower prices on accommodation.
Cons: Hot and humid, frequent rainfall.
Winter (December-February):
Pros: Snowy landscapes, fewer tourists, lower travel costs, a unique perspective on the city.
Cons: Cold, some outdoor attractions might be less accessible or have limited hours.
Getting to Luoyang: Flights, Trains, and Visa Information
Flights: Luoyang Beijiao Airport (LYA) offers domestic flights. International visitors usually fly into Beijing (PEK) or Shanghai (PVG) and connect via flight or high-speed train.
Trains: Luoyang Railway Station and Luoyang Longmen Railway Station provide high-speed and regular train services to major cities.
Visa Details: Most nationalities need a Chinese visa to enter China. Check visa requirements before you go.
Airport Transfers: Taxis and airport buses are available. High-speed trains connect Luoyang Longmen Railway Station to other cities.
Unveiling Luoyang’s History and Culture
A Fun Fact About Luoyang
Luoyang served as China’s capital during the Eastern Zhou Dynasty for over 500 years! It was regarded as the geographical center of China and “capital of capitals.” The city’s central location aided trade, transportation, and cultural progress, strengthening Luoyang’s role as an important city in ancient China.
Famous People From Luoyang
Du Fu (712-770 AD), a great poet of the Tang Dynasty.
Top 10 Luoyang Attractions: Must-See Landmarks
Longmen Grottoes: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
An UNESCO World Heritage site with thousands of Buddhist statues carved into limestone cliffs along the Yi River.
- Address: Longmen Town, Luoyang, Henan
White Horse Temple: China’s First Buddhist Temple
Considered the first Buddhist temple in China, built in the 1st century AD.
- Address: Baima Temple, Luoyang, Henan
Shaolin Temple: Birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Kung Fu
The birthplace of Zen Buddhism and Chinese martial arts, located nearby in Dengfeng. A popular day trip from Luoyang.
- Address: Dengfeng, Zhengzhou, Henan
Luoyang Museum: A Journey Through History
Showcasing Luoyang’s history and culture, with exhibits from prehistoric times to the modern era.
- Address: Nie Wan Dong Lu, Luoyang, Henan
Wangcheng Park: Gardens, Lakes, and Ancient Ruins
A park with gardens, lakes, and historical sites, including remnants of an ancient city wall.
- Address: Zhongzhou Middle Rd, Xigong District, Luoyang, Henan
Tianzi Jialiu Museum: Royal Chariot Burial Site
Museum displaying an ancient royal chariot burial site, with Zhou Dynasty chariots and horses.
- Address: East of the intersection of Wangcheng Avenue and Zhongzhou Road, Xigong District, Luoyang, Henan
Lijing Gate: Panoramic Views of the Old City
An imposing gate with traditional architecture and panoramic views of the old city.
- Address: Old Town of Luoyang, Luoyang, Henan
Guanlin Temple: Honoring a Legendary General
A temple dedicated to Guan Yu, a general from the Three Kingdoms period.
- Address: Guanlin South Street, Luoyang, Henan
Luoyang Old Town: Explore Traditional Streets
Explore narrow streets, traditional architecture, shops, and restaurants.
- Address: Luoyang, Henan
Luoyang Botanical Garden: Home to the Famous Peonies
A collection of plants and flowers, including the Luoyang peonies.
- Address: Wangcheng Avenue, Jianxi District, Luoyang, Henan
Discover Luoyang’s Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path
The Ancient Tombs Museum: A Glimpse Into the Past
Explore a replica of an ancient tomb to see the lifestyle and culture of the time.
- Address: North Mangshan Mountain Tourist Road, Mengjin County, Luoyang, Henan
Yiyang Dixia Chutou (Underground First Head) Village: A Unique Rural Experience
Experience rural lifestyle in this unique village.
- Address: Yiyang County, Luoyang
Luoyang’s Local Festivals and Events: Immerse Yourself in Culture
Luoyang Peony Festival: A Celebration of Flowers
Held annually in April, celebrating the blooming of the peonies with exhibitions, performances, and trade fairs.
Luoyang Water Banquet Festival: A Culinary Tradition
A culinary festival featuring the traditional Luoyang “water banquet” cuisine.
Day Trips and Nearby Attractions: Expand Your Adventure
Shaolin Temple (Dengfeng): Martial Arts and Zen Buddhism
Located in Dengfeng, about a 1.5-hour drive from Luoyang. Famous for Zen Buddhism and martial arts. A must-see for martial arts fans.
Xiaolangdi Dam: Engineering Marvel on the Yellow River
A large dam on the Yellow River, about a 2-hour drive from Luoyang. Offers scenic views and a chance to learn about engineering.
Luoyang’s Most Instagrammable Spots: Capture the Beauty
Longmen Grottoes: Ancient Carvings by the River
Capture the intricate carvings and riverside scenery.
White Horse Temple: Serene Temple Grounds
Photograph the ancient architecture and temple grounds.
Luoyang Old Town: Traditional Buildings and Daily Life
Snap shots of daily life and traditional buildings.
Luoyang Museum: Ancient Artifacts and History
Capture the artifacts of ancient times.
Where to Stay in Luoyang: Hotels for Every Budget
Recommended Length of Stay in Luoyang
3-4 days is ideal to see the main attractions.
Top Places to Stay (Sorted by Budget)
Budget-Friendly Hotels in Luoyang
- Luoyang Mingtang Youth Hostel
- Address: No.22, Beida Street, Old Town, Luoyang
- Luoyang Tianyu Hotel
- Address: No. 168, Jiefang Road, Xigong District, Luoyang
- Home Inn Luoyang Railway Station
- Address: No. 82, Daonan Road, Jianxi District, Luoyang
Mid-Range Hotels in Luoyang
- Holiday Inn Express Luoyang City Center
- Address: No. 168, Zhongzhou Middle Road, Xigong District, Luoyang
- Wyndham Garden Luoyang
- Address: No. 29, Jiudu Road, Jianxi District, Luoyang
- Jinjiang Inn Luoyang Wangcheng Park
- Address: No. 69, Zhongzhou Middle Road, Xigong District, Luoyang
Luxury Hotels in Luoyang
- Shangri-La Hotel, Luoyang
- Address: No. 16, Binhe South Road, Luolong District, Luoyang
- Grand Hyatt Luoyang
- Address: No. 666, Kaiyuan Avenue, Luolong District, Luoyang
- Howard Johnson Jinyuan Plaza Luoyang
- Address: No. 15, Airport Road, Jianxi District, Luoyang
Getting Around Luoyang: Transportation Options
Public Transport: An extensive bus network covers the city and suburbs.
Taxis: Taxis are available, but ensure the driver uses the meter.
Bikes: Bike-sharing services are popular.
Walking Tips: Walking is great in the Old Town and parks.
Preparing for Your Luoyang Adventure: Packing Tips and Useful Apps
What to Pack for Your Trip to Luoyang
Essentials: Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (layers are key!), sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, basic Mandarin phrases or a translation app, and any necessary prescription medications.
Useful Apps for Navigating Luoyang
Navigation: Baidu Maps or Gaode Maps (AutoNavi).
Local Guides: Ctrip or Dianping for attractions and reviews.
Food: Meituan or Ele.me for food delivery.
Translation: Google Translate or Pleco.
Transport: Didi Chuxing for ride-hailing.
Luoyang Travel Tips: Safety, Culture, and Etiquette
Do’s & Don’ts: Do learn basic Mandarin phrases, try local cuisine, and respect temples and historical sites. Don’t litter, speak loudly in quiet places, or take photos where prohibited.
Scams to Avoid: Be wary of unsolicited offers or “tea ceremony” invitations. Use official taxis and negotiate prices.
Respectful Behavior: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites, avoid public displays of affection, and be mindful of local customs.
Luoyang Food, Fun & Finds: Culinary Delights and Souvenir Shopping
Top Luoyang Restaurants: A Taste of Local Flavors
- 真不同饭店 (Zhen Butong Fandian):
A famous restaurant for traditional Luoyang cuisine, including the water banquet.- Address: Intersection of Zhongzhou Road and Xiyuan Road, Xigong District, Luoyang
- 老洛阳面馆 (Lao Luoyang Mian Guan):
Popular for its authentic Luoyang noodles and local snacks.- Address: Various locations throughout Luoyang
Must-Try Dishes in Luoyang
Luoyang Water Banquet (洛阳水席): A series of soup-based dishes served in a specific order. A unique culinary experience.
Luoyang Tangmian (洛阳汤面): Noodle soup with various toppings and flavorful broth. Perfect for a quick and tasty meal.
Peony Cake (牡丹饼): A sweet cake made with peony petals. A delightful local specialty.
Luoyang Nightlife and Entertainment: Explore After Dark
- Lijing Gate Area:
Various bars and restaurants offering nightlife entertainment.- Address: Old Town of Luoyang, Luoyang, Henan
- Luoyang Wanda Plaza:
Shopping mall with cinemas, restaurants, and entertainment.- Address: Various locations throughout Luoyang
Souvenirs and Markets: What to Buy in Luoyang
Luoyang Peony Products: Paintings, silk products, and flavored treats.
Tang Sancai Pottery: Replicas of Tang Dynasty tri-color pottery.
Luoyang Paper-Cuts: Traditional Chinese paper-cut art.
- Luoyang Old Town Market: Traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local snacks.
