Xi'an to Luoyang Travel Guide: How to Get from Xi'an to Luoyang Easily

Smooth Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Enjoy a Comfortable & Efficient High-Speed Train Trip to Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple Exclusive 4-Day Xi'an & Luoyang Tour: Discover Huashan’s Beauty & Cultural Treasures

Overview
Xi’an and Luoyang, two of China’s most iconic ancient capitals, stand as living museums of Chinese civilization, separated by a mere 380 kilometers (236 miles). Xi’an, the imperial capital of 13 dynasties and home to the world-famous Terracotta Army, carries the grandeur of the Qin and Tang dynasties. Luoyang, known as the “City of Peonies” and the capital of 13 dynasties as well, boasts the UNESCO World Heritage Site Longmen Grottoes and White Horse Temple, the first Buddhist temple in China. Traveling from Xi’an to Luoyang is not just a short journey between two cities, but a pilgrimage through over 3,000 years of Chinese history, culture, and art.

Overview of Xi’an and Luoyang
Brief Introduction to Xi’an

Xi'an, one of China's four ancient capitals and a 13-dynasty imperial city, lies on the way to Luoyang. Don’t miss its famous landmarks and snack streets, where ancient culture meets modern life.

Brief Introduction to Luoyang

Luoyang in Henan is a 13-dynasty ancient capital and birthplace of Chinese civilization. It boasts three UNESCO sites, famous peonies, profound culture and tasty local food, ideal for authentic Chinese travel experience.

Reasons for traveling from Xi'an to Luoyang
Xi'an-Luoyang tour traces ancient imperial history. The two ancient capitals feature unique cultural styles. Just 380km apart, they are easily combined for a smooth trip with frequent affordable high-speed trains, perfect for exploring history, culture and local delicacies.

How to Get from Xi’an to Luoyang Easily
Getting from Xi’an to Luoyang is convenient, with multiple transportation options to suit different budgets and travel preferences. 
High-Speed Train– The Best Choice
The most popular and recommended option for foreign travelers is by high-speed train (bullet train), which is fast, comfortable, and reliable.
Key Information

· Departure Stations in Xi’an: Xi’an North Railway Station (Xi’an Bei Zhan) – the main high-speed train station in Xi’an.
· Arrival Stations in Luoyang: Luoyang Longmen Railway Station (Luoyang Longmen Zhan), close to the Longmen Grottoes, making it convenient for travelers to start their Luoyang exploration directly.
· Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours (varies by train type and stopover).
· Ticket Prices: Second class (Economy): ¥174 – ¥188 (about $24 – $26); First class: ¥279 – ¥301 (about $38 – $41); Business class: ¥550 – ¥586 (about $75 – $80).
· Frequency: 96+ trains daily, from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

How to Book Tickets as a Foreign Traveler
Foreign travelers can book high-speed train tickets through the following channels, using their valid passports (the only required ID document for foreign citizens)

· 12306 Official Website/APP: The official platform for China Railway tickets. You can register an account on 12306.cn , enter your passport information, and book tickets directly. Note that the APP is in Chinese, but you can use translation tools to navigate.
· Railway Station Ticket Counters: Go to the ticket counter at Xi’an North Railway Station, show your passport, and the staff will help you book and print tickets (paper tickets or e-ticket receipts).
· Automatic Ticket Machines: Most railway stations have automatic ticket machines that accept passports. You can select the “Foreign Passport” option, scan your passport, and print your e-ticket receipt (no need for a physical ticket; you can board with your passport).
· Tips: Book tickets 10 days in advance, especially during peak seasons (e.g., Chinese New Year, Peony Festival in Luoyang, summer vacation), as tickets sell out quickly.

Boarding Tips
· Arrive at the station 30 to 45 minutes before departure: High-speed train stations are large, and you need time to go through security checks and find your platform.
· Bring your passport: You need to show your passport when going through security and boarding the train (e-ticket is linked to your passport, so no physical ticket is required for most trains).
· Onboard services: High-speed trains have clean seats, power outlets (for phones/laptops), and a dining car selling snacks and drinks. Some trains offer free bottled water.
· Station navigation: Xi’an North Railway Station and Luoyang Longmen Railway Station have English signs, and staff at information desks can speak basic English to assist you.

Regular Train– Budget-Friendly Option
For travelers on a tight budget, regular trains are a good alternative. They are cheaper than high-speed trains but take longer (4.5 to 5.5 hours). Regular trains are divided into different types, including Z-trains (direct express), K-trains (fast trains), and T-trains (express trains), with varying comfort levels and prices.

Key Information
· Departure Stations in Xi’an: Xi’an Railway Station (Xi’an Zhan) – located in the city center, close to the Ancient City Wall and Muslim Quarter, easily accessible by subway and bus.
· Arrival Stations in Luoyang: Luoyang Railway Station (Luoyang Zhan) – located in the city center, convenient for accessing hotels and downtown attractions.
· Travel Time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours (varies by train type).
· Ticket Prices: Hard seat (Economy): ¥54.5 (about $7.5); Hard sleeper (shared bunk bed): ¥100.5 – ¥108.5 (about $14 – $15); Soft sleeper (private bunk bed): ¥155.5 – ¥161.5 (about $21 – $22).
· Frequency: 10+ trains daily, from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

Pros and Cons
· Pros: Lower price (about 1/3 of high-speed train tickets); Departure and arrival stations are in the city center, convenient for accessing downtown areas; Hard sleeper and soft sleeper options are available for long journeys, allowing you to rest.
· Cons: Longer travel time (4.5+ hours); Less comfortable than high-speed trains (seats are narrower, and the train may be crowded); Fewer English signs and less English-speaking staff on board.

Private Car/Chartered Car– Comfortable & Flexible Option
For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, renting a private car or chartering a car with a driver is an excellent choice. You can stop at scenic spots along the way and customize your itinerary.
Key Information
· Recommendation:We offer premium Xi'an-Luoyang chartered car service for foreign tourists. Our experienced drivers speak basic English, and fluent English-speaking drivers are available on request. Flexible itineraries and roadside sightseeing stops are fully customizable.
· Travel time: 3 to 3.5 hours.

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Luoyang Attractions Recommendation
Luoyang, as a famous ancient capital with a history of over 3,000 years, has numerous well-known scenic spots, covering world cultural heritage, Buddhist holy sites, imperial ruins, and natural landscapes. 
Longmen Grottoes
Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO site and one of China’s four great Buddhist grottoes, is hailed as cliff art gallery. Boasting over 1400 years of history, it perfectly preserves ancient Buddhist culture of Sui and Tang dynasties.

· Suggested stay time: 3-5 hours
· Phone: +86-(379)-65980972
· Address: Longmen Scenic Area, Yichuan District, Luoyang City, Henan Province (near Luoyang Longmen Railway Station, 3km away).
· Ticket Price: ¥90 per person (about $12.3).
· Opening Hours: From March 1st to March 29th every year :08:00-19:00 (Admission stop: 18:00; Ticket sales stop: 17:30)
From March 30th to October 31st every year :08:00-21:00 (Admission stop: 20:00; Ticket sales stop: 19:30)
From November 1st to February 28th of the following year :08:00-18:00 (Admission suspended: 17:00; Ticket sales suspended: 16:30)
· Core Features: It runs 1km along Yiluo River with numerous Buddha statues. The grand Vairocana Buddha is its highlight. Wear comfy shoes; English guides can be rented for 30 yuan.

White Horse Temple
Founded in 68 AD, White Horse Temple is China’s first Buddhist temple. With a 1900-year history, it is the origin of Chinese Buddhism.

· Suggested stay time: 1-3 hours
· Address: Baimasi Town, Luolong District, Luoyang City, Henan Province (about 12km east of Luoyang city center).
· Ticket Price: ¥50 per person (about $6.85)
· Opening Hours: April 1st to November 30th every year from 07:40-18:30 (closed at 18:00) From December 1st to March 31st of the following year, from 08:00 to 17:30 (no admission: 17:00)
· Core Features: White Horse Temple has classic halls and exotic buildings for photos. It preserves ancient relics, perfect for learning Buddhist culture. English brochures are available onsite.

Sui-Tang Luoyang City Ruins
As a UNESCO site, Sui-Tang Luoyang Ruins was the Sui-Tang imperial core. Restored remains display its ancient grandeur.

· Suggested stay time: 1-3 hours
· Phone: +86-(379)-65063201
· Address: Yingtianmen Scenic Area, Luolong District, Luoyang City, Henan Province.
· Ticket Price: Combined ticket costs 120 yuan, separate tickets range from 30 to 50 yuan. Kids under 1.4m and seniors over 70 enter free; students enjoy half price.
· Opening Hours: 09:00-22:30 throughout the year (closed at 22:00)
· Core Features: It features Yingtianmen, Shangyang Palace and Sui-Tang relic museum. Yingtianmen boasts gorgeous night views and nightly light shows. English introductions and guides are available here.

Luoyang National Peony Garden
Known as Peony City, Luoyang boasts National Peony Garden, home to over 1200 peony varieties. It is ideal for flower viewing, especially during April-May Peony Festival.

· Suggested stay time: 1-3 hours
· Phone: +86-379-62261024 |+86-379-62261406
· Address: No. 1 Yingtang Road, Xigong District, Luoyang City, Henan Province (about 8km north of the city center, accessible by bus No. 51 and No. 83).
· Ticket Price: ¥60 per person (about $8.2) during the Peony Festival (April to May); ¥10 per person (about $1.35) in other months. Free for children under 1.4 meters and elderly over 70 years old; half-price for students with valid student ID.
· Phone:+86-379-62261024 |+86-379-62261406· Opening Hours: From January 1st to December 31st every year, from 08:00 to 18:00 (no admission: 18:00)
· Opening hours: From January 1st to December 31st every year, from 08:00 to 18:00 (closed at 18:00)
· Core Features: This peony garden has numerous rare varieties including famous Yao Huang and Wei Zi. It holds rich cultural activities in blooming season. Best visited in late April, with English signs and simple English service offered.

Guanlin Temple
Guanlin Temple worships Guan Yu, a famed Three Kingdoms general. With over 1700 years of history, it is a famous Guan Culture holy land integrating three religions.

· Opening hours: 08:30-17:30 throughout the year (ticket sales stop at 17:00)
· Suggested stay time: 1-3 hours
· Phone:+86- (379) -65951746
· Address: Guanlin South Road, Luolong District, Luoyang City, Henan Province (about 7km south of the city center, close to Luoyang Longmen Railway Station, 5km away).
· Ticket Price: ¥40 per person (about $5.48), free for children under 1.4 meters and elderly over 70 years old; half-price for students with valid student ID (¥20, about $2.74).
· Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM (April to October); 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (November to March); last entry 1 hour before closing.
· Core Features: It features a front-temple-back-tomb layout and precious ancient relics. Grand fairs are held here yearly. English introductions and brochures are accessible.

Local Delicacies in Luoyang
In addition to rich historical and cultural attractions, Luoyang also has a variety of delicious local delicacies, which are simple, authentic, and full of local characteristics.
Luoyang Water Banquet
With a thousand-year history, Luoyang Water Banquet is one of Luoyang Three Treasures. It gets its name from plentiful soup dishes and steady serving order.

· Recommended Restaurant: Jiufu Water Banquet
· Location: No. 18 Xianguoshi Street, Southwest Corner Street, Old Town (5-min walk from Linjia Restaurant)
· Highlights: No fancy decor but authentic taste, typical local family-style water banquet, rich and tangy broth, generous portions
· Must-try: Sour and Spicy Pork, Peony Swallow Dish, Water-floating Meatballs
· Price: ¥35-50/person, best value for money in Old Town
· Hours: 11:00-14:00, 17:00-20:00 (popular with locals, arrive early)

Luoyang Jiang Mian Tiao
Jiang Mian Tiao is a centuries-old Luoyang staple. Made with fermented soybean milk, it tastes sour and savory, cheap and satisfying.

· Recommended Restaurant:Lao Luoyang Noodle House
· Location: Main store: Intersection of West Street & Xianguoshi Street, Old Town (5-min walk from Lijingmen); multiple branches citywide (Wangcheng Road, Hongzhuan Road, High-speed Railway Station)
· Highlights: Century-old craft, fermented mung bean sour broth (soul of the dish), topped with pickled mustard greens, soybeans, crushed peanuts, and chili oil
· Best with: Fried crispy meatballs, osmanthus cake
· Price: ¥8-12/bowl, set meals (noodles + side dish) around ¥15
· Hours: 9:00-21:00 (branches); 8:00-20:00 (Old Town main store)

Peony Pastry
Peony Pastry is a famous snack in Luoyang, combining the beauty of peonies with the deliciousness of pastries. It is not only a delicious snack but also a perfect souvenir for travelers to take back home.

· Recommended Restaurant: Wanjingxiang
· Location: No. 88 Zhongzhou Middle Road, Old Town (5-min walk from Yingtianmen Metro Station Exit A)
· Highlights: Century-old brand, authentic Luoyang peony petal filling, thin flaky crust (256 layers), floral aroma without greasiness
· Best picks: Original peony pastry, rose-peony combo, freshly baked peony cake
· Price: ¥15-30/person, gift boxes available
· Hours: 8:30-21:00

Luoyang Bufan Soup
Century-old Bufan Soup is a local favorite. Named for unflipped pancakes, it tastes savory and warming.

· Recommended Restaurant: Gao Ji Qingxiangyuan Bufan Soup
· Address: No.195 West Street, Old Town (near Lijing Gate)
· Highlights: Featured on A Bite of China; spicy-sour, rich bone broth; generous toppings.
· Price: about 18 CNY per bowl.

Xinan Tangmian Jiao
Century-old Xinan Tangmian Jiao are hot-noodle steamed dumplings with thin skin and tasty fillings, perfect for breakfast or light meals.

· Recommended Restaurant: Wang Laowang Tangmian Jiao (Wang's Century-Old Shop)
· Location: No. 68 Beijing Road, Xin'an County; also branches in downtown Luoyang
· Highlights: Provincial intangible cultural heritage (1914-founded), thin elastic skin, juicy pork filling, peony-themed innovation
· Price: ¥10-20 per portion, set meals (dumplings + egg soup) around ¥15
· Hours: 6:00-14:00 (popular breakfast/lunch spot)

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Recommended Hotels in Luoyang
Luxury Hotels
Luoyang Yading Hotel
The hotel enjoys prime location with easy access to malls, scenic spots, museums and transport hubs.

· Address:  About 100 meters west of the intersection of Wangcheng Avenue and Kaiyuan Avenue, Luolong District, Luoyang, Henan Province, north of the road
· Phone: +86-379-62986666
· Price:  Starting from 1000 yuan
· Entry and exit time:  Check in time: after 14:00  Check out time: before 12:00

Luoyang Huamao Chunsong Hotel
The hotel will build a new cultural hotel with "China-Chic, artistic, immersive museum, experience, tourism, business and parent-child integration" to create a warm and artistic living space for guests.

· Address: About 90 meters west of the intersection of Yongtai Street and Zhanqian West Road, Luolong District, Luoyang, Henan Province
· Phone:+86-379-69997777+86-379-61297777
· Price: around 1000 yuan
· Entry and exit time: Check in time: after 14:00 Check out time: before 12:00

Luoyang International Hotel
The hotel's experienced Golden Key service team can wholeheartedly provide you with professional services, meeting your personalized needs for the perfect combination of government affairs, business, and travel.

· Address:  No. 239 Kaiyuan Avenue, Luolong District, Luoyang, Henan Province (Intersection of Kaiyuan Avenue and Jinchengzhai Street)
· Phone: +86-379-80898888
· Price:  Starting from 1000 yuan
· Entry and exit time:  Check in time: after 14:00  Check out time: before 12:00

Comfort Hotels
All Seasons Hotel (Luoyang Luoyi Ancient City Yingtianmen Branch)
The hotel uses natural essential oil bath products, which provide pleasure, peace of mind, and stress relief. Fun tea sets and carefully selected tea leaves allow the Eastern lifestyle to continue on the journey

· Address: 337 Jiudu East Road, Laocheng District, Luoyang, Henan Province
· Phone:+86-379-61668888
· Price: Starting from 400 yuan
· Entry and exit time: Check in time: after 14:00  Check out time: before 12:00

Fumei Hotel (Luoyang Longmen High speed Railway Station Sports Center Branch)
The entrance garden on the hotel floor, 180 ° panoramic french window, and high-quality cinema rooms allow you to enjoy a leisurely and comfortable life in a simple and quiet place while working at a high tempo.

· Address: Block A, Zhonghong Excellence Center, Intersection of Wangcheng Avenue and Taikang Road, Luolong District, Luoyang, Henan Province
· Phone:+86-379-80861111
· Price: Starting from 400 yuan
· Entry and exit time: Check in time: after 14:00  Check out time: before 12:00

Luoyin Hotel (Luoyang Jianxi Wanda Peony Square Branch)
Luoyin Hotel integrates cinema resources. Guests can enjoy movies here. It features industrial, artistic and movie-themed styles.

· Address: No. 23 Jianshe Road, Jianxi District, Luoyang, Henan Province (within the Oriental Cultural and Creative Park)
· Phone:+86-379-65197666
· Price: around 400 yuan
· Entry and exit time: Check in time: after 14:00  Check out time: before 12:00

Pratical Tips
Language Tips
· Basic Communication: Most local people in Luoyang can only speak Chinese, but staff in scenic spots, hotels, and restaurants near scenic spots can speak basic English, which is enough for daily communication (e.g., ordering food, asking for directions).
· Translation Tool: It is recommended to download a translation app (e.g., WeChat Translate, Baidu Translate) on your mobile phone, which can translate Chinese and English in real time, helping you solve communication problems.
· Key Information Card: Prepare a small card with key information (e.g., hotel address, scenic spot name) written in Chinese and English, which is convenient for asking for directions when you get lost.

Etiquette Tips
· Temple Dressing Etiquette: When visiting temples (e.g., White Horse Temple, Guanlin Temple), dress modestly, avoid wearing shorts, skirts above the knee, or sleeveless tops. Do not make loud noises or run around in the temple, so as not to disturb the solemn atmosphere.
· Scenic Spot Photography Rules: When taking photos in scenic spots, do not touch cultural relics (e.g., Buddha statues in Longmen Grottoes), and follow the relevant regulations of the scenic spot. Some areas are not allowed to take photos, please pay attention to the signs.
· Dining Etiquette: When dining in restaurants, it is polite to wait for all people to be served before eating. Do not waste food, and you can take away the leftover food if you can’t finish it.

Safety Tips
· Valuables Protection:  Keep your passport, cash, and other valuables safe. It is recommended to carry a small bag close to your body and do not put valuables in your backpack.
· Public Transport Safety:  When taking public transportation (e.g., subway, bus), pay attention to your personal belongings and avoid being stolen.
· Clothing Preparation:  The weather in Luoyang is dry in spring and autumn, hot in summer, and cold in winter. Please bring appropriate clothes according to the season. When visiting Longmen Grottoes, wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and climbing.
· Drinking Water Safety:  Drink bottled water or boiled water, do not drink unboiled water to avoid stomach discomfort.

Other Tips
· Best Travel Time:  The best travel time to Luoyang is from March to May (Peony Festival) and September to November (comfortable weather, clear sky), which is suitable for visiting scenic spots and tasting local food.
· Hotel Booking:  It is recommended to book hotels in advance, especially during peak seasons (Peony Festival, summer vacation, Chinese New Year), as hotels are easy to be fully booked.
· Payment Method:  Most scenic spots and restaurants accept mobile payment (WeChat Pay, Alipay), but it is recommended to carry a small amount of cash (RMB) in case of emergency. Foreign travelers can bind their passports to WeChat Pay or Alipay to use mobile payment.

FAQs
Q: If I arrive at Xi’an North Railway Station by subway, how long does it usually take to get to the high-speed train platform after getting off the subway?
A: It usually takes 15-20 minutes. After getting off the subway (Line 2) at Xi’an North Railway Station, you need to go through the ticket check (or e-ticket verification with your passport), security check, and then find the corresponding platform according to the train information. It is recommended to reserve enough time to avoid missing the train.

Q: Can I rent an English-speaking tour guide at the entrance of Longmen Grottoes, and what is the approximate cost?
A: Yes, you can rent an English-speaking tour guide at the entrance of Longmen Grottoes. The cost is about ¥150-200 per guide (for a group of 1-5 people), and the service time is about 2-3 hours, covering the key scenic spots of the grottoes and their historical background. You can also book in advance through the official scenic spot channel to ensure the availability of guides.

Q: Are there any halal food options near the scenic spots in Luoyang, suitable for Muslim travelers?
A: Yes, there are halal food options near major scenic spots. For example, near Longmen Grottoes and the old town, there are halal restaurants mainly serving beef and mutton dishes, which are marked with obvious halal signs. The Muslim Quarter in Xi’an is also a gathering place for halal food. You can taste authentic halal snacks before leaving Xi’an.

Q: If I want to take a regular train from Xi’an to Luoyang, do I need to print a paper ticket, or can I board with my passport directly?
A: You can board with your passport directly without printing a paper ticket. Similar to high-speed trains, regular train tickets are also linked to your passport. After booking, you only need to show your passport at the security check and ticket gate to enter the station. If you need a receipt for reimbursement, you can print it at the automatic ticket machine or ticket counter with your passport.

Q: Is there a luggage storage service at Luoyang Longmen Railway Station, and what are the related charges?
A: Yes, there is a luggage storage service at Luoyang Longmen Railway Station. It is located near the exit of the station, with self-service storage cabinets and manual storage counters. The charge for self-service cabinets is ¥10-20 per piece per day (depending on the size), and the manual storage charge is ¥20-30 per piece per day. Valuables are not recommended to be stored in self-service cabinets.

Q: During the Peony Festival in Luoyang, is it necessary to book scenic spot tickets in advance? How can foreign travelers book them? 
A: It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance. During the Peony Festival (April to May), all major scenic spots in Luoyang are crowded, and tickets are often sold out on the same day. Foreign travelers can book tickets through the official WeChat mini-program of the scenic spot (with translation tools for operation), or through travel agencies, or ask the hotel front desk for assistance in booking, which requires providing passport information.

Q: Can I use international credit cards in restaurants and hotels in Luoyang?
A:Most luxury hotels and large restaurants in Luoyang accept international credit cards (such as Visa and Mastercard), but small restaurants, snack bars, and comfort hotels may only accept mobile payment or cash. It is recommended to carry a small amount of RMB cash and bind your passport to WeChat Pay or Alipay for more convenient payment.

Q: If I have extra time after visiting Luoyang, which nearby scenic spots can I visit in a day?
A:Shaolin Temple in Dengfeng City is the most recommended nearby scenic spot, which is about 80km from Luoyang and takes 1.5-2 hours by car. It is a famous Buddhist holy land and the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu, where you can watch Kung Fu performances and visit ancient temples. You can take a chartered car or a tourist bus from Luoyang to Shaolin Temple, and return to Luoyang on the same day.

Q: What should I do if I lose my passport during the trip from Xi’an to Luoyang?
A:First, report the loss to the local public security bureau (you can ask the hotel front desk or scenic spot staff for help to contact the police). Then, go to the embassy or consulate of your country in China to apply for a temporary travel document. During this period, you need to provide relevant certificates (such as a copy of your passport, hotel reservation certificate, and travel itinerary) to prove your identity.

Q: Are there any special souvenirs in Luoyang besides peony pastries that are suitable for taking back to my country?
A:Besides peony pastries, you can also choose Longmen Grottoes replicas (such as small Buddha statue carvings), peony-themed handicrafts (such as peony porcelain, peony embroidery), and Luoyang ink slabs. These souvenirs are not only distinctive but also easy to carry, and most of them have English introductions on the packaging. They can be bought in the old town of Luoyang or near major scenic spots.

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