Luoyang, a city steeped in over 3,000 years of history, is a must-visit for anyone interested in Chinese culture and history. As one of China’s four great ancient capitals and a cradle of Chinese civilization, Luoyang offers a rich tapestry of historical sites and stunning landscapes. This guide provides a comprehensive overview for first-time visitors.
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Luoyang’s significance as one of China’s four great ancient capitals is undeniable. Its historical importance as the capital of thirteen dynasties makes it a prime destination for exploring China’s ancient past.
Nestled in western Henan province, Luoyang’s strategic location contributed to its historical prominence. Its legacy as a vibrant center during the Tang Dynasty, and its enduring collection of historical and cultural relics, ensure a captivating experience for visitors. Exploring its ancient temples, imposing walls, and serene streets offers a glimpse into a rich and layered past.
During the Tang Dynasty, Luoyang was a bustling metropolis, a testament to its enduring significance throughout history. The city’s historical sites offer a tangible connection to the past.
Exploring Ancient Luoyang
Known by various names, including “Dongdu” (Eastern Capital), “Xijing” (Western Capital), and “Jingluo,” Luoyang’s historical importance is undeniable. Its evolution from a major Tang Dynasty urban center into the modern city speaks volumes of its enduring significance as a cultural center. For over 3,000 years and across thirteen dynasties, its impact on Chinese civilization is profound.
Situated in Henan province, Luoyang’s name derives from its location along the Luo River. For centuries it served as a pivotal economic and social hub of ancient China. Its continued presence as one of China’s four great ancient capitals further underscores its critical role.
As one of the four great ancient capitals, and the former capital of thirteen dynasties, Luoyang is a treasure trove for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts. Its historical significance makes it irresistible for those eager to understand ancient Chinese history and culture.
Best Time to Visit Luoyang
Luoyang’s climate offers distinct seasonal beauty. However, spring and autumn are generally considered the ideal times to visit.
Spring in Luoyang boasts warm, dry weather, perfect for outdoor exploration. The blossoming flowers, including cherry blossoms, create a stunning spectacle. Late spring (April and May) is particularly recommended to avoid early-season storms.
Autumn offers cooler temperatures yet remains pleasant, without the chill of winter. The changing foliage paints the landscape in vibrant hues, creating a picturesque atmosphere. September, October, and November are ideal months for an autumnal visit.
Luoyang Travel Guide: A Comprehensive Overview
Luoyang offers a rich cultural experience, but its weather presents some challenges. Summer in Luoyang is hot and humid, while winter brings cold temperatures and potentially harsh conditions. While travel is possible year-round, visitors should plan accordingly and pack for diverse weather.
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Getting to Luoyang
By Air
Luoyang Beijiao Airport (LYA), located approximately 10km north of the city center, serves as a major air transport hub in Henan Province. It offers domestic flights to major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou, and Kunming, and international connections to Hong Kong and Bangkok. The airport features amenities including VIP lounges in both its domestic and international terminals. Seventeen airlines currently connect Luoyang to 24 cities across China, with flight times varying from 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the destination.
Luoyang Beijiao Airport | Pascal Meier | Luoyang travel guide
China Southern Airlines | Luoyang travel guide
From Vietnam
Air travel is the most common way to reach Luoyang from Vietnam. Major Vietnamese cities—Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang—have flights connecting to LYA, though often with one or two layovers. Expect flight times and costs to vary significantly:
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Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Luoyang: 5,000,000 – 14,000,000 VND
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Hanoi to Luoyang: 4,000,000 – 15,000,000 VND
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Da Nang to Luoyang: 6,500,000 – 10,000,000 VND
Layovers typically occur in Hanoi (for flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang) or other Chinese cities like Shenzhen or Kunming.
| Luoyang travel guide
By Train
Luoyang boasts multiple railway stations, catering to both high-speed and conventional rail travel. Luoyang Railway Station handles numerous Z/K/T trains connecting to major inland cities. Luoyang Longmen Railway Station, a high-speed rail hub located 11km south of the city, offers faster connections to cities like Beijing (4 hours), Xi’an (2.5 hours), Wuhan (3 hours), and Zhengzhou (40 minutes).
Luoyang Railway Station | wikipedia | Luoyang travel guide
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Getting Around Luoyang
Currently, taxis and buses are the primary means of independent travel within Luoyang, as the metro system is still under construction. Line 1, when complete, will connect key attractions such as Wangcheng Park, Tianzi Jialiu Museum, and Lijing Gate.
| tripadvisor | Luoyang travel guide
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Subway (under construction): Line 1 will eventually provide convenient access to multiple attractions.
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Taxi: A cost-effective option, with fares typically starting at 5 CNY for the first 3km and increasing incrementally thereafter. Nighttime fares are generally higher.
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Bus: Over 120 bus routes, with more than 3,000 buses, cover the city, serving major locations including Longmen Grottoes, the airport, and the train station. Fares are usually 1-3 CNY per ride.
Accommodation in Luoyang
Luoyang offers a wide range of hotels and motels catering to different budgets. Booking in advance through platforms like Agoda or Booking.com is recommended to secure the best rates. Below are a few examples of highly-rated hotels:
| Booking | Luoyang travel guide
For a wider selection, explore Agoda and Booking.com.
Things to Do and See in Luoyang
Luoyang’s Historical and Cultural Gems
Luoyang, a city steeped in history, boasts a wealth of cultural treasures. Let’s explore some of its most significant sites:
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Longmen Grottoes: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Located 12 kilometers south of Luoyang, the Longmen Grottoes are a breathtaking complex of monumental Buddhist sculptures carved into cliffsides. This UNESCO World Heritage site ranks among China’s three most renowned ancient sculpture sites, alongside Mogao and Yungang Grottoes. The grottoes, extending approximately 2 kilometers along the Yi River (a Yellow River tributary), contain over 100,000 statues, showcasing a remarkable range of Chinese art, calligraphy, and culture from antiquity to the present day.
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The site comprises around 2,345 caves of varying sizes, and features a striking array of Buddhist sculptures, including one colossal Buddha statue measuring 17 meters tall. Spanning from the late Northern Wei to the Tang Dynasty, Longmen Grottoes represent a pinnacle of Chinese stone carving, showcasing the evolution of Buddhist art and architectural styles throughout centuries. The sheer scale and artistic merit of this complex make it a must-see for any visitor to Luoyang.
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Linzi Temple: A Historic Martial Arts Center
Dating back to 495 AD during the Northern Wei Dynasty, Linzi Temple boasts a history spanning over 1500 years, establishing it as one of China’s oldest temples. Famously featured in the movie “Shaolin Temple,” the temple has captured the imagination of generations, becoming a renowned site for both domestic and international tourists. Beyond its historical significance, Linzi Temple is a renowned center for martial arts, particularly Luohanquan (Arhat boxing). Visitors can witness monks practicing this potent style, showcasing impressive staff techniques and internal energy cultivation. The temple’s connection to Shaolin Kung Fu and other martial arts traditions further solidifies its importance in Chinese cultural heritage. Recognized as a significant National Buddhist Monastery in 1983, its historical context within the Dengfeng complex earned it UNESCO World Heritage recognition.
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Baima Temple (White Horse Temple): The Cradle of Chinese Buddhism
Baima Temple holds a unique place in Buddhist history as the first Buddhist temple in China. Constructed in 68 AD during the Han Dynasty, it’s associated with numerous legends surrounding its founding. Houses three significant artifacts marking the introduction of Buddhism to China, The temple complex sprawls across 47,840 square meters and encompasses over 100 halls dedicated to the worship of Buddhas and Arhats, many dating back to the Yuan dynasty. A serene garden with tree-lined paths enhances the peaceful atmosphere, leading visitors to the temple’s entrance. For Buddhist pilgrims and those interested in religious history, a visit to Baima Temple offers a profound insight into the origins of Buddhism in China.
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@will louis | Luoyang travel blog
Luoyang Ancient Tombs Museum: Exploring Imperial Burial Practices
The Luoyang Ancient Tombs Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into China’s imperial burial traditions. Luoyang’s geographical location has historically made it a favored resting place for emperors, officials, and scholars. The museum features a display of ancient tombs, and offers insights into burial customs, rites, and burial styles across various historical periods. Although the underground exhibition area is dimly lit and cool, visitors benefit from the informative presentations. Admission to the museum is free, but guided audio tours are available for rent.
| islamichinatravel.com | Luoyang travel blog
Lijing Gate: A Culinary and Cultural Gateway
Lijing Gate, situated in the heart of Luoyang, served as a western gate to the ancient city. Today, it’s a vibrant walking street and food haven. A must-visit for food enthusiasts is the opportunity to sample the Shui Xi (Water Banquet), a historic multi-course meal (8 cold and 16 warm dishes) with a history spanning over 1,000 years. Its unique preparation using various broths and rich sauces creates a symphony of flavors. Lijing Gate offers a delightful blend of historical charm and gastronomic delights.
Lijing Gate is the ideal place for tourists to Luoyang to explore all the extremely impressive but equally unique beauty of Chinese cuisine. | vemaybay123 | Luoyang travel blog
Mingtang and Tiantang Scenic Area: A Glimpse into History
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Constructed around the 16th century during the reign of Empress Wu Zetian, the Mingtang and Tiantang complex held significant historical importance. Mingtang, the central structure, served as the site for imperial ceremonies, including those honoring heaven and earth, and receiving foreign emissaries. Tiantang, a towering structure of its time, was dedicated to Buddhist worship. Though rebuilt after years of historical weathering and damage, the reconstructed complex faithfully reflects the original architectural style and layout. Archeological discoveries in 1986, unearthing remnants dating back 1300 years, guided the reconstruction, transforming the site into a museum showcasing ancient Chinese architecture, history, and culture.
The Tower of Heaven – A place to worship Buddha during the reign of Wu Zetian. @Ryan Pang
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Laojun Mountain: A Taoist Holy Land
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Located in Luanchuan District, Luoyang, Laojun Mountain, the highest peak in the 800-mile Funiu Mountain range, is a revered Taoist sacred site. Known as “the world’s first sacred land and the world’s first immortal mountain,” its history stretches back over 2,000 years, establishing it as one of Taoism’s oldest mountain sites. Legend attributes its significance to Li Er, the founder of Taoism’s philosophical traditions during the Spring and Autumn period, who is said to have practiced here, solidifying its status as the “origin of Taoism.”
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The mountain comprises six scenic areas encompassing numerous renowned sites, including Taiqing Palace, Shifangyuan, Lingguan Palace, Guanyin Palace, Sanqing Palace, Laojun Temple, and the Shili Gallery. Visitors can enjoy stunning natural beauty throughout the year. Spring showcases vibrant blooming flowers, particularly rhododendrons. Summer offers cool respite in its shady forests. Autumn’s foliage paints the mountains with fiery hues. Winter presents a breathtaking landscape of snow and cloud seas, perfect for skiing. Atop the mountain, panoramic views of rolling cloud seas create an ethereal experience.
Longtan Grand Canyon: Exploring Geological Marvels
Longtan Grand Canyon, situated approximately 70 kilometers southwest of Luoyang, presents a captivating landscape of deep gorges, flowing streams, and picturesque scenery. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, including canoeing and hiking, immersing themselves in the natural beauty and challenge themselves physically.
| x.com | Luoyang travel blog
The canyon’s sharp cliffs, towering peaks, and meandering streams create a breathtaking vista. Boat tours offer a unique perspective, allowing visitors to appreciate the rock formations and crystal-clear waters. Alternatively, hiking trails cater to those seeking a more adventurous experience. Whether seeking tranquility or excitement, the Longtan Grand Canyon offers diverse appeal.
Wangcheng Park: A City-Center Oasis
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Wangcheng Park, the largest park in Luoyang’s city center, masterfully combines historical significance, beautiful gardens, a zoo, and recreational facilities. As a heritage park, it showcases ancient structures reflecting the Zhou Dynasty, such as Chenxiang Pavilion and Shaoyue Platform. Its western section houses a zoo boasting over 100 animal species, including giant pandas, South China tigers, Siberian tigers, leopards, black bears, brown bears, and red-crowned cranes.
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Moreover, Wangcheng Park serves as the primary venue for the annual Luoyang Peony Festival (early April to early May), a spectacular event where hundreds of thousands of peonies bloom simultaneously. The park offers abundant recreational options and serves as a popular gathering spot for locals.
Luoyang National Peony Garden: A Peony Paradise
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The Luoyang National Peony Garden stands as a premier destination for peony enthusiasts, particularly during the Peony Culture Festival. Situated on the site of the ancient Sui and Tang city of Luonan, it occupies a vast area and is China’s largest ornamental peony garden. The garden stretches from Luoyang Bridge in the east to Peony Bridge in the west, encompassing the southern embankment of Luopu Park.
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Divided into six scenic areas, it boasts over 500,000 peony plants encompassing 1,000 varieties, representing nine main color systems. The garden also features over 2 million plants of various trees, shrubs, and other flora, creating a stunning floral tapestry. During the festival, traditional Chinese performances add to the vibrant atmosphere.
Luoyang: A Journey Through History and Nature
Luoyang, a city steeped in history and natural beauty, offers a diverse range of attractions. This guide highlights some of the must-see locations.
Xiaolangdi Scenic Area: Witness the raw power of nature at the Xiaolangdi Dam, particularly impressive during the rainy season when floodwaters are released. The resulting spectacle showcases the Yellow River’s immense force. The surrounding area is equally captivating, featuring a man-made lake, peninsulas, islands and peaks, earning it the moniker “Little Thousand Island Lake.” Views of the dam from the south bank and Mount Taihang and Mount Wangwu from the north bank complement the experience.
Guanlin Temple: Pay homage to Guan Yu, the revered general of the Shu Kingdom during the Three Kingdoms period, at his purported burial place. Honored across Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism, Guan Yu remains a legendary figure, worshipped as a deity. The temple itself offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and is ideal for Three Kingdoms history enthusiasts.
Longmen Grottoes: Explore these renowned Buddhist cave temples, highlighted by the monumental Vairocana Buddha statue in Fengxian Temple. Other key sites include Bingyang Cave (the first royal cave), Wanfo Cave (with 15,000 small Buddha statues), and Guyang Cave (the oldest and most diverse). A suggested route involves traversing West Hill’s key caves, followed by East Hill, Xiangshan Temple, and Baiyuan Garden. This combines cultural immersion with scenic beauty.
Luoyang Old Town: Immerse yourself in local life within the historic Luoyang Old Town (also known as the Historical and Cultural Ancient Street). Explore ancient architecture, delve into the Heluo culture, observe daily life, admire local art, and savor the regional cuisine.
The area, accessed through Lijing Gate, features a folk art museum showcasing paper cuttings, traditional clothing, and other local crafts. The old town’s layout includes both bustling shopping streets lined with multi-story shops and quieter residential streets with smaller shops and dwellings. Explore the Muslim community and indulge in local delicacies.
Luoyi Ancient Town: Situated within Luoyang’s old town, Luoyi Ancient Town showcases architectural styles spanning the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing, and Republic of China dynasties. Incorporating sections of the Jin and Yuan dynasty city walls, the town’s park is meticulously organised into functional areas, exhibiting the city’s history while promoting tourism, catering, accommodation, and entertainment under one roof.
Yingtianmen: Step back in time at Yingtianmen, the south gate of the Sui and Tang Dynasties’ Luoyang City Palace, historically considered the most prestigious city gate in ancient China. It reflects the power and prosperity of those eras, even more profoundly at night, when its illumination evokes the splendor of the Tang Dynasty.
Chongdugou Scenic Area: Escape to the natural beauty of the Chongdugou Scenic Area in Luanchuan District. Named after Emperor Guangwu of the Eastern Han Dynasty, it boasts stunning mountain scenery, bamboo forests, and multiple waterfalls, earning the nickname “Northern Water Town.” The area comprises Nangou and Xigou, each offering unique attractions like waterfalls, streams, and the expansive bamboo forests of Xigou.
Luoyang’s Culinary Delights
Shui Xi (Water Feast)
Shui Xi, a centuries-old Luoyang specialty, is a lavish banquet featuring 24 dishes served in various broths. This impressive spread is a must-try for any visitor. Each dish is presented in a small portion, showcasing a variety of flavors and ingredients. Its preparation is similar to Vietnamese soup, utilizing charcoal cooking for a distinct flavor profile. Served in a family-style format, Shui Xi offers a captivating culinary adventure. The Lijing Gate walking street in the city center is a popular spot to find this culinary masterpiece, with prices ranging from 20-50 Yuan per serving.
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Lamb-Based Delights
Luoyang’s culinary scene prominently features lamb, showcasing its versatility in different dishes.
Lamb Soup
A quintessential Luoyang dish, lamb soup uses tender lamb, fresh vegetables, and unique spices to create a flavorful and aromatic broth. Its comforting warmth makes it a popular choice year-round, perfect for both cold winters and hot summers.
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Baked Lamb Buns
These wintertime favorites combine tender lamb with a savory broth, baked within fluffy buns. The slow-simmering process ensures the lamb’s rich flavor permeates the soup, complemented by cilantro and green onions.
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Beef and Noodle Specialties
Luoyang’s culinary scene also showcases flavorful beef and noodle dishes.
Beef Soup
A popular breakfast choice, Luoyang Beef Soup is made with fresh beef and bones, simmered for an extended period to create a tender and fragrant broth. The soup’s richness is enhanced with cilantro and green onions.
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Braised Noodles (Guon Braised Noodles)
This traditional noodle dish features chewy noodles in a rich broth, typically including ingredients like tofu skin and shredded kelp. The high-quality flour and carefully crafted broth contribute to the dish’s delightful texture and flavor.
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Signature Dishes and Snacks
Beyond the staples, Luoyang offers a range of unique and flavorful dishes.
Bird’s Nest (First Hot Dish)
This dish, legend says, was named by Empress Wu Zetian. While including ingredients like white radish, sea cucumber, squid, and chicken, its presentation resembles peony flowers floating in broth, making it a visually stunning culinary experience.
Meatball Soup
One of Luoyang’s eight famous soups, this dish features a variety of tender meatballs and vegetables, creating a flavorful and nutritious bowl. The inclusion of tofu and shiitake mushrooms adds depth and richness to the soup.
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Pan Jin He Roasted Chicken
This renowned Luoyang brand is known for its perfectly roasted chicken, boasting crispy skin, tender meat, and a rich, savory flavor profile. The process uses high-quality local chicken, resulting in a dish loved as both a main course and a side dish.
Roujiamo
A beloved Luoyang snack, Roujiamo features crispy bread filled with flavorful meat. Its preparation involves high-quality ingredients and precise techniques, resulting in a delightful textural contrast—crispy exterior, soft interior—and a savory meat filling. The addition of sesame and green onions further enhances its appeal.
Carp Leaping Over the Dragon Gate
This auspicious dish showcases a large carp, typically from the Yellow River, expertly prepared to be crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The cultural significance of the dish adds to its appeal, symbolizing ambition and aspiration.
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Modern Favorites
Malatang
This spicy and numbing hot pot has gained significant popularity in Luoyang, offering a diverse range of meats, seafood, and vegetables. Its flavorful broth and abundant ingredients have made it a street food favorite.
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Peony Flower Cake
Inspired by the city’s iconic peony flower, this cake offers a unique flavor and beautiful appearance. Its crispy crust and just-right sweetness make it a delightful treat.
Tang Huo Shao
(Further details on Tang Huo Shao are needed to provide a description).
Planning Your Luoyang Trip: A Comprehensive Guide
Luoyang, a city steeped in history and culture, offers a captivating blend of ancient wonders and modern delights. This guide details planning your trip, including budget considerations and suggested activities. A local delicacy to try is Tang Huo Shao, a traditional sweet with a crispy exterior and sweet interior, perfect for enjoying during festivals or celebrations.
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Budgeting Your Luoyang Trip
The cost of a Luoyang trip significantly depends on your travel style and preferences. This breakdown will help you estimate expenses:
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Transportation:
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High-Speed Rail: Prices vary greatly depending on your origin city, typically ranging from several hundred yuan one-way. Factor in the return journey.
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Flights: Airfare fluctuates with season and booking time; expect costs from a few hundred yuan to over a thousand yuan.
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Driving: Consider fuel costs and tolls if choosing a self-drive option.
Accommodation:
Budget options like guesthouses cost approximately 100-300 yuan per night. Mid-range to luxury hotels will cost upwards of 500 yuan per night.
Food:
Meal costs average 30-100 yuan per person, depending on your dining choices and restaurant type.
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Entrance Fees:
Many Luoyang attractions require tickets. Expect to pay around 90 yuan for Longmen Grottoes, 100 yuan for Laojun Mountain, and 35 yuan for Baima Temple. Free attractions include the Luoyang Museum and Luoyi Ancient Town. Allocate 200-500 yuan for transportation to and from these sites.
Estimated Total: A 5-day, 4-night trip could cost between 5,000 and 7,000 yuan (approximately 700-1000 USD), but this greatly depends on your choices and spending habits. Careful pre-planning is crucial for managing your budget effectively.
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Luoyang’s Allure: Why Visit?
Luoyang boasts breathtaking natural scenery, impressive ancient architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Each season reveals a unique charm. The city holds unforgettable experiences for every traveller.
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For more information on exploring China, please visit: https://visitfamousplaces.com/?s=china
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 Luoyang, a city steeped in over 3,000 years of history, is a must-visit for anyone interested in Chinese culture and history. As one of China's four great ancient capitals and a cradle of Chinese civilization, Luoyang offers a rich tapestry of historical sites and stunning landscapes. This guide provides a comprehensive overview for first-time visitors. * [Chengdu blog.){kind=link}