The first time for foreigners to visit Luoyang
Luoyang, as the ancient capital of thirteen dynasties, has a rich historical and cultural heritage and a unique urban landscape, which is a great choice for foreign tourists to explore ancient Chinese civilization and experience modern urban life. The following is a detailed guide to help foreign friends who come to Luoyang for the first time to better plan their trip.
First, prepare for the trip
Visa and entry
Apply for a Chinese visa in advance, depending on your nationality. The specific requirements and procedures for visa application can be found on the official website of the Chinese Embassy or consulate in your country.
Luoyang is not an international air port, but you can travel to Luoyang from Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and other cities by plane or high-speed rail.
Transportation reservation
Air/Train tickets: Book air or train tickets to Luoyang. Luoyang Beijiao Airport connects many cities in China, and Luoyang Longmen Station is also an important hub for high-speed rail.
Hotels: Based on personal preference and budget, book in advance for hotels located in the city center or easily accessible areas. It is recommended to choose accommodation close to the main attractions, such as Yingtianmen, Luoyi ancient city around.
Money and payments
Luoyang uses Chinese Yuan (CNY). Most places support mobile payments, such as Alipay, wechat Pay, etc., but it is recommended to carry some cash for emergencies.
communication
Mobile roaming packages or SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or locally to access the Internet and make calls using mobile phones.
Download utility APP
Map APP: such as Amap, Baidu map, plan your trip, check the distance between places and transportation.
Translation APP: such as Google Translate, it is convenient to use when you encounter language barriers in communication.
Second, must visit the scenic spot recommendation
Longmen Grottoes
Address: Longmen Road, Longmen Town, Luolong District, Luoyang City
Highlights: One of the four famous grottoes, with exquisite Buddha statues and reliefs, is an important window to understand ancient Chinese Buddhist art.
Suggestion:
Book tickets in advance in the “Wisdom Dragon Gate” mini program or the official website.
It is recommended to go early in the morning to avoid the rush.
You can visit the newly opened digital exhibition hall and experience the restoration process of the grottoes through VR equipment.
After 17:30 in winter / 19:00 in summer, you can enjoy the night light show (open every Friday and Saturday).
Luoyang Museum
Address: Nie Tai Road, Luolong District, Luoyang City
Highlights: Rich in cultural relics, it is a good place to learn about the history and culture of Luoyang.
Suggestion:
Book tickets in advance at the Luoyang Museum official account.
Visit the newly opened “Digital Epitaphs” exhibition area to learn the stories behind epitaphs in an interactive way.
Luoyi ancient city
Address: Intersection of Jiudu East Road and Liulin Street, Old town, Luoyang City
Highlights: The antique architecture and strong cultural atmosphere is a good place to experience Hanfu culture and take photos of ancient style.
Suggestion:
Head there in the evening for a panoramic light show of the Old Town (opens at 20:15).
Rent Hanfu outside the ancient city, makeup costs from about 79 yuan, experience Hanfu photo punch.
Sui and Tang Luoyang City National Site Park
Address: Northeast corner of intersection of Zhongzhou Middle Road and Dingding North Road, Old town, Luoyang City
Highlights: including Ying Tianmen, Ming Tang Paradise, Jiuzhou Pond and other attractions, you can feel the “prosperous Sui and Tang” style.
Suggestion:
Book tickets in advance on the scenic spot’s official website or public account.
It is recommended to visit the Ming Tang Paradise in the afternoon, and then go to Ying Tianmen to watch the light show (there is a 3D laser projection show at 20:30 every Saturday and Sunday evening).
White Horse Temple
Address: Luobai Road, Baima Temple Town, Luolong District, Luoyang City
Highlights: Founded in the Han Dynasty, it is the first ancient temple in China and the only international temple in the world with Buddhist temples in Chinese, Indian, Burmese and Thai styles.
Suggestion:
With Hanfu style to go, the temple rental point to provide makeup and hair services.
Visit the new Stop Language tea house and experience the Zen space.
Luoyang Baiyun Mountain tourist resort
Address: The hinterland of Funiu Mountain in the south of Song County, Luoyang City
Highlights: With Baiyun Mountain as the main natural scenic area, you can enjoy the “frozen peony” in winter, as well as snow slide, ice park and other entertainment projects.
Suggestion:
Book tickets and accommodation in advance on the scenic spot’s official website or travel platform.
Wear warm clothes, prepare non-slip shoes and pay attention to safety.
Third, food recommendation
Luoyang water mat
Features: A total of 24 dishes, serving order has strict regulations, reasonable collocation, there are meat, soup and water, taste diversity.
Recommended Restaurant: Real different Hotel (Chinese time-honored brand)
Luoyang beef soup
Features: The selection of high-quality beef, after careful braising, the soup is mellow and rich, the beef is tender and juicy.
Recommended places: Fang Guangzong Beef Soup in Xigong Street, the first beef soup in Longlin Road, etc.
Luoyang roast chicken
Features: Marinated with unique ingredients and carefully baked.
Recommended restaurant: Panjin and roast chicken, etc.
Pan-Fried Dumpling
Features: The outer skin is crisp and tender.
Recommended location: Small street pot stickers, etc.
Luoyang does not turn soup
Features: It has more than 120 years of history, sour, hot and salty, unique flavor.
Fourth, itinerary planning advice
Three day Tour Recommended Itinerary:
Day 1:
Morning: Visit the Luoyang Museum to understand the history and culture of Luoyang.
Noon: Try Luoyang water mat at a restaurant near the ancient city of Luoyi.
Afternoon: Visit Luoyi ancient City, experience Hanfu photo clock.
Evening: Enjoy the panoramic light show of the Old town of Luoyi.
Day two:
Morning: Go to the Longmen Grottoes, visit the grotto statues and night light show (if the time is right).
Noon: Try Luoyang snacks in Longmen Ancient Street.
Afternoon: Visit Sui-Tang Luoyang City National Heritage Park, visit Ying Tianmen, Ming Tang Tiantang and other scenic spots.
Evening: Watch the 3D laser projection show of Yingtianmen.
Day 3:
Morning: Go to the White Horse Temple, visit the temple buildings and Stop language tea house.
Noon: Dinner at a restaurant near the White Horse Temple.
Afternoon: Go to Luoyang Baiyun Mountain Tourist Resort to enjoy the natural scenery and ice wonders (if the season is right).
Evening: Return to the city and end the pleasant Luoyang tour.
Fifth. Practical tips
Transportation trip
Luoyang Metro Line 2 direct to Longmen Grottoes, Ying Tianmen and other scenic spots, convenient and fast.
Shared motorcycles can be used between urban attractions, but it is necessary to wear a helmet before starting the vehicle.
Cross-district scenic spots can be booked through “Shendu Travel”.
Climate and dress
Luoyang has a temperate monsoon climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are cool and suitable for outdoor activities; Summer (June to August) is hot and humid, so be prepared for sun protection and heat protection; Winter (December to February) is cold and dry, so bring warm clothing.
Verbal communication
Luoyang is an international city, and most attractions and restaurants are available in English. If necessary, you can also enlist the help of local people or use translation apps to communicate.
Safety tips
Take care of your belongings, especially in crowded places.
Comply with local laws and regulations and scenic area regulations, civilized travel.
In case of emergency, you can call the local police number (110) or the help number (120).
Other suggestions
Restaurants and public places in Luoyang may not provide enough paper towels or napkins, it is recommended to bring your own paper towels.
Some attractions may require advance booking of tickets, so please plan your trip in advance.
Through the above guideline, I believe you can better plan your first visit to Luoyang and feel the unique charm and profound heritage of this ancient capital. Wish you a pleasant trip!
