How to Plan Your Private Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes & Shaolin Temple and White Horse Temple

If you’re planning a trip to China, make sure to include a visit to Luoyang in your itinerary. Located in the province of Henan, Luoyang was one of the ancient capitals of China, and is home to some of the country’s most important historical and cultural sights. One of the best ways to see Luoyang is by taking the Private Luoyang Day Tour with Viator, which will take you to explore the Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple, and White Horse Temple. This tour is the perfect way to experience the richness of Luoyang’s cultural heritage, and learn more about Chinese history and tradition.

Overview of the Tour

The Private Luoyang Day Tour is a guided tour that will take you to see three important landmarks in Luoyang: the Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple, and White Horse Temple. You’ll have a private guide to take you through each site, and explore its historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. The tour package also includes lunch, transportation by a private vehicle, and entrance tickets to all the sites.

Details of the Tour

Longmen Grottoes

The Longmen Grottoes are a network of caves and niches carved into the limestone cliffs on the banks of the Yi River. Dating back to the Northern Wei dynasty (386-535 AD), the grottoes are an excellent example of Chinese Buddhist art, with over 100,000 statues and carvings of Buddha, saints, and other religious figures. You’ll have a comprehensive tour of the site with your guide, who will explain the history and symbolism behind each sculpture.

Shaolin Temple

Shaolin Temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in China, renowned for its association with kung fu and martial arts. The temple was founded in the 5th century AD, and has a long history of training martial artists and monks. During your visit, you’ll see a kung fu demonstration, and learn about the philosophy and practice of martial arts. You’ll also tour the temple complex, which includes several pagodas, halls, and courtyards.

White Horse Temple

The White Horse Temple is the first Buddhist temple in China, dating back to the Eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD). According to legend, the Emperor Ming sent emissaries to India to bring back Buddhist texts and sutras on white horses, which is how the temple got its name. During your visit, you’ll learn about the history and culture of Buddhism in China, and see some of the temple’s most important relics, such as the Chinese version of the Lotus Sutra.

Logistics of the Tour

The Private Luoyang Day Tour is designed to be convenient and stress-free for travelers. The tour starts at 8:00 AM, and lasts approximately 8 hours. Your guide will meet you at your hotel or a designated pickup location, and transport you to each site in a private vehicle. The tour also includes lunch, which is provided at a local restaurant. At the end of the tour, you’ll be taken to the Luoyang Longmen Bullet Train Station, where you can take the train to your next destination.

What’s Included in the Tour

– Private guide
– Private vehicle transportation
– Entrance tickets to all sites
– Lunch at a local restaurant
– Gratuities

What to Expect

– Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, with plenty of walking and standing
– Dress appropriately for the weather and cultural sites (e.g. covered shoulders and knees in temples)
– Follow the guidance of your guide, who will help you navigate the sites and provide historical and cultural context
– Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the beautiful scenery and sculptures
– Be respectful of the sites, and do not touch or climb on any statues or carvings

Additional Information

– Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
– Not wheelchair accessible
– Stroller accessible
– Infant seats available upon request
– Not recommended for travelers with back problems, heart problems, or other serious medical conditions

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Book the Tour Here

To book the Private Luoyang Day Tour, visit Viator’s website and follow the instructions. The tour is an excellent way to experience Luoyang’s cultural richness and learn more about Chinese history and tradition.

An Insider’s Guide to Luoyang: Uncovering Hidden Gems, Local Delights, and Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures

Luoyang is an ancient city located in the Henan Province of China. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural scenery, and culinary delights. If you are visiting Luoyang, you do not want to limit your stay to the popular tourist spots only. Discover the city’s lesser-known attractions, indulge in its delectable cuisine, and immerse yourself in its vibrant local culture. Here is an insider’s guide to help you make the most out of your Luoyang journey.

Local Attractions: Off the Tourist Trail

Everyone knows about the famous Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple, and White Horse Temple, but if you want to experience something unique and authentic, here are a few off-the-beaten-path suggestions that only locals know:

– Guanlin Scenic Spot: A hidden gem that features an ancient temple, multiple pagodas, and beautiful gardens. Perfect for relaxing walks and picnics.
– Luoyang Museum of Folk Customs: A fascinating museum that showcases the local customs and traditions of Luoyang. Explore the ancient artifacts, art pieces, and textiles that are unique to this region.
– Shi De Song Yuan: A peaceful retreat that offers an excellent view of the city. Here you can participate in cultural activities such as Tai Chi, calligraphy, and tea ceremonies.

Dining Spots: Savor the Local Cuisine

Luoyang is famous for its flavorful food, including its mouth-watering noodles, dumplings, and hotpot. Here are a few places to indulge in the local cuisine:

– Qiyuan Fengwei Lou: A popular restaurant that serves authentic Luoyang cuisine. Must-tries include the Luoyang Water Banquet and the Noodle Soup with Braised Beef.
– Luoyang Mian Guan: A small noodle shop that has been in business for over 100 years. Famous for its Ban Men noodles and scallion pancake.
– Guo Yan Lou: A hotpot restaurant that specializes in spicy Sichuan-style broth. Perfect for cold winter evenings.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Local Traditions

Luoyang has a long and rich history, and it’s reflected in its traditions, festivals, and art. To get a taste of local culture, here are a few experiences to try:

– The Peony Festival: Held every April, this festival celebrates Luoyang’s famous peonies. Enjoy the beautiful flowers, folk performances, and local cuisine.
– Longmen Art Center: Attend a cultural performance or exhibition at this center. You can see traditional Chinese opera, dance, or music shows.
– Luoyang Banquet: Get a taste of the past with a Luoyang Banquet- a special feast that dates back to the Tang dynasty.

Local History: Fascinating Stories from the Past

Luoyang has a colorful history with many intriguing stories to uncover. Here are a few captivating tales from the city’s past:

– The Legend of White Horse Temple: According to legend, the White Horse Temple was built in 68 AD after two white horses appeared carrying Buddhist sutras from India. Today, it’s the oldest Buddhist temple in China.
– The Origins of the Longmen Grottoes: The Longmen Grottoes were carved between 493 AD and 752 AD and contain over 100,000 statues. It’s believed that monks started carving the caves as a way to earn merits for their loved ones.
– The Life of Cao Cao: Cao Cao was a military general and politician who lived in Luoyang during the Three Kingdoms period. He’s famous for his exploits, and his life has inspired many books, movies, and TV dramas.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures: Make Your Trip Unforgettable

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few unique experiences that will make your trip to Luoyang unforgettable:

– Explore the Laojun Shan National Forest Park: This park features stunning scenery, including a natural rock bridge, waterfalls, and rare flora and fauna.
– Visit the Guanlin Scenic Spot at Night: See the ancient temple and pagodas lit up at night for a magical and mystical experience.
– Take a River Cruise at the Yishui River: Enjoy the scenery and peacefulness of the Yishui River. It’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In conclusion, Luoyang has an incredible range of attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, history, and adventures waiting for you. With this insider’s guide, you can explore the hidden gems, indulge in the local cuisine, immerse yourself in local culture, learn fascinating stories from the past, and try unique and unforgettable experiences. Enjoy your Luoyang journey, and don’t forget to share your incredible experiences with your friends.