Luoyang stands out as a must-visit destination in China, especially for those interested in history, art, and martial arts. This city is rich with UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Longmen Grottoes and the Shaolin Temple, offering travelers a chance to see ancient Buddhist carvings and learn about martial arts traditions. We particularly like the Luoyang: Longmen Grottoes Optional Tours or Tickets Only because it provides flexibility for different budgets and preferences — whether you want a guided experience or just entry tickets. For those who want a full day of exploration, the Luoyang & Shaolin Temple Day Trip from Xian combines two iconic sites with the convenience of high-speed train travel, making it perfect for efficient travelers.
If you’re considering a deeper dive into Luoyang’s treasures, there’s a variety of tours to suit different interests and schedules. From simple ticket options to comprehensive private adventures, you’ll find something that matches your pace and curiosity.
- 1. Luoyang: Longmen Grottoes Optional Tours or Tickets Only
- 2. Luoyang & Shaolin Temple Day Trip from Xian by High-speed Train
- 3. Longmen Grottoes Entry Ticket with Optional Guide or Transfer
- 4. Luoyang & Shaolin Temple Day Trip from Xian by High-speed Train
- 5. Longmen Grottoes Entry Ticket with Optional Guide or Transfer
- 6. Shaolin Kung Fu Experience Private Day Tour
- 7. Private Tour: Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple & Kungfu Show
- 8. Zhengzhou: Private Tour to Shaolin Temple & Longmen Grottoes
- 9. Luoyang: Longmen Grottoes Entry Ticket Only Option
- 10. Luoyang: Day Tour from Xian or LuoYang with Tickets Options
- 11. Private Day Tour of Luoyang Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes Including Lunch
- 12. Private Tour: 2-Day Luoyang Highlights of Shaolin Temple
- 13. Luoyang Private Car for Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple
- How to Choose the Best Tour in Luoyang
1. Luoyang: Longmen Grottoes Optional Tours or Tickets Only
At number 1 on our list, the Luoyang: Longmen Grottoes Optional Tours or Tickets Only offers a flexible way to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. For just $28 per person, you can choose from guided tours, private transfers, or simply buy tickets to visit independently. The site features over 100,000 stone statues, with the Vairocana Buddha as the star attraction. What makes this tour particularly appealing is the option to tailor your experience—whether you want a 4-hour visit with a guide who can unlock stories behind the carvings or just need the entry tickets for a more spontaneous visit. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and smooth ticket organization, with visitors highlighting how the expert commentary brings the carvings’ history to life.
The tour includes electric car rides and multiple drop-off points, making it easy to fit into a day’s plan. It’s well suited for travelers wanting flexibility at an affordable price. Bottom line: a convenient, budget-friendly way to experience Luoyang’s most famous site.
2. Luoyang & Shaolin Temple Day Trip from Xian by High-speed Train
Number 2 on our list is the Luoyang & Shaolin Temple Day Trip from Xian, perfect for those wanting a full immersion in two of China’s most iconic UNESCO sites. For around $309, this 9-hour private tour includes round-trip high-speed train tickets—saving you the hassle of booking and logistics. Your guide will escort you to the Longmen Grottoes, where over 100,000 stone Buddhas and carvings showcase a 400-year artistic effort. Afterward, you’ll visit the Shaolin Temple, birthplace of Chinese Zen Buddhism and martial arts, with plenty of time to watch the famous kung fu show performed by monks.
Guests rave about the knowledgeable guides and seamless transport, making this a stress-free way to see both sites in one day. Best suited for travelers with limited time who want a comprehensive experience without sacrificing depth. Bottom line: a well-organized, value-packed day trip with expert guidance.
3. Longmen Grottoes Entry Ticket with Optional Guide or Transfer
Number 3 features the Longmen Grottoes Entry Ticket with Optional Guide or Transfer. Priced at $19.80, this offers a budget-friendly way to access one of China’s most impressive cave complexes, with over 110,000 statues. The tickets are electronic and can be purchased ahead, helping you skip long lines. The tour includes the option for a guided visit, which can really enrich your understanding of the carvings’ cultural significance. With departure times available from the scenic area, it’s suitable for flexible plans.
Reviews highlight the ease of ticket organization and the value of having a knowledgeable guide escort you through the site’s highlights. If you prefer visiting independently but want expert commentary, this option balances cost and experience well. Bottom line: an economical way to see the Grottoes with optional guided insights.
4. Luoyang & Shaolin Temple Day Trip from Xian by High-speed Train
Number 4 is the Luoyang & Shaolin Temple Day Trip from Xian, which we find particularly attractive for its combination of cultural highlights and convenience. For $309, this tour takes you on a 9-hour journey via high-speed train, covering the Longmen Grottoes and the Shaolin Temple with a guide explaining their significance. Highlights include the over 2,300 caves, the 270-foot Vairocana Buddha, and the famous kung fu show performed by Shaolin monks.
Guests note the professionalism of the guides and the smooth logistics, making it ideal for travelers wanting to maximize their time and learn about Chinese Buddhism and martial arts. The tour is perfect for those with limited days but a desire to see major cultural landmarks. Bottom line: a well-paced, guided experience that combines history, art, and martial arts under one umbrella.
5. Longmen Grottoes Entry Ticket with Optional Guide or Transfer
Number 5 on the list is the Longmen Grottoes Entry Ticket with Optional Guide or Transfer. For only $19.80, you can access the site with your electronic ticket, bypassing queues. It’s ideal for travelers who want to explore at their own pace but also have the option to add a guided explanation. The guided option offers insights into the intricate carvings, Buddhist imagery, and the historical context, making your visit more meaningful.
Reviews commend the ease of ticket purchase and the value of guided narration. This plan suits independent travelers who want flexibility but appreciate expert commentary to deepen their understanding. Bottom line: affordable entry with optional guidance for a richer experience.
6. Shaolin Kung Fu Experience Private Day Tour
Number 6 is the Shaolin Kung Fu Experience Private Day Tour. At $305 per person, this full-day tour offers a deep dive into Shaolin martial arts and Zen Buddhism. It includes a visit to Longmen Grottoes, where over 70 stupas and 2,680 inscribed stone tablets highlight Buddhist art, followed by the Shaolin Temple with a kung fu demonstration. A traditional Chinese lunch adds to the culture.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of personal attention—door-to-door transport, private guide—and the focus on martial arts. Guests praise the guide’s enthusiasm and the opportunity to watch monks perform authentic kung fu. This is ideal for travelers wanting a hands-on experience with Chinese martial arts and cultural history. Bottom line: immersive, personalized, and culturally authentic.
7. Private Tour: Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple & Kungfu Show
Number 7 offers the Private Tour: Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple & Kungfu Show. For $142, it combines two UNESCO sites into one comprehensive, all-inclusive day. You start with a guided 2-hour visit to the Longmen Grottoes, then proceed to the Shaolin Temple for a 3-hour tour, finishing with the famous kung fu performance.
This tour is perfect for travelers who prefer a hassle-free experience with everything included—tickets, lunch, private transportation. Reviewers mention how seamless and educational the experience is, especially with guides who bring the sites to life. Suitable for those with limited time but high interest in both Buddhist art and martial arts. Bottom line: full, guided day with convenience and depth.
8. Zhengzhou: Private Tour to Shaolin Temple & Longmen Grottoes
Number 8, Zhengzhou: Private Tour to Shaolin Temple & Longmen Grottoes, offers an all-in-one experience for $168. It covers two major UNESCO sites in one day, with a guide providing insights into their significance. The tour includes the largest collection of Chinese art in the Grottoes and the Shaolin Temple, famous for martial arts and Zen Buddhism.
Guests appreciate the flexibility to travel at their own pace and ask questions. The private guide and transportation make the experience comfortable and personalized. It’s especially suited for those who want a comprehensive, culturally rich day. Bottom line: excellent value for a full day of exploration with expert guidance.
9. Luoyang: Longmen Grottoes Entry Ticket Only Option
Number 9 is the Luoyang: Longmen Grottoes Entry Ticket Only Option. Priced at $32, this is best for travelers who want to explore independently. You provide your passport details in advance, receive an electronic ticket, and show a photo at the entrance. No guided service included, but perfect if you prefer self-guided exploration.
Reviews mention how easy it is to organize tickets in advance, making it a reliable choice to avoid sold-out situations. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers or those comfortable navigating on their own. Bottom line: a straightforward, no-fuss way to access the site.
10. Luoyang: Day Tour from Xian or LuoYang with Tickets Options
Number 10, the Luoyang: Day Tour from Xian or Luoyang with Tickets Options provides a flexible, private tour experience starting from either city. It combines visits to Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple with options to include or exclude tickets, at prices suited to your needs. The tour lasts between 2 and 14 hours, with private guides and transportation.
Travelers appreciate the convenience of hotel or train station pickup, making it easy to fit Luoyang into a broader China itinerary. It’s best for those who want tailored timing and a private experience. Bottom line: adaptable, private, and user-friendly for different schedules.
11. Private Day Tour of Luoyang Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes Including Lunch
Number 11 features the Private Day Tour of Luoyang Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes Including Lunch. For $219, it’s a personalized full-day experience, starting with pickup at your hotel. It includes guided visits to both UNESCO sites plus a traditional Chinese lunch.
Ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, comprehensive day with a guide who will tailor the experience to your interests. Guests praise the private guide’s attention and the chance to see the temples without feeling rushed. Suitable for those seeking comfort and in-depth cultural insights. Bottom line: a seamless, all-inclusive day that combines history, art, and martial arts.
12. Private Tour: 2-Day Luoyang Highlights of Shaolin Temple
Number 12 offers an immersive two-day experience with the Private Tour: 2-Day Luoyang Highlights of Shaolin Temple. For $370, this tour is perfect for those who want to take their time exploring White Horse Temple, Shaolin Temple, Longmen Grottoes, and Luoyang Museum. It includes private guides, all entrance fees, and hotel pickup.
Guests enjoy the relaxed pace and personalized attention, making it ideal for travelers with time to spare. Reviewers highlight the wealth of information shared by guides and the chance to experience more sites comfortably. Bottom line: an ideal option for travelers seeking a comprehensive, unhurried exploration of Luoyang’s key attractions.
13. Luoyang Private Car for Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple
Last but not least, the Luoyang private car for Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple offers flexible transportation for groups up to four, at $160 per group. The private car makes for an easy, comfortable way to visit these two major sites without the hassle of navigating public transport or booking multiple guides.
It’s especially good for small groups who want to customize their itinerary and move at their own pace. This is a practical, cost-effective option for those who want flexible self-guided touring. Bottom line: simple, private transport that makes visiting Luoyang’s top sights straightforward.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Luoyang
When selecting your perfect Luoyang experience, consider your budget, schedule, and what kind of pace suits you. If you prefer a guided, all-inclusive day with meals and transportation, options like the Private Tour: Longmen Grottoes & Shaolin Temple or the 2-Day Highlights Tour are excellent. For travelers seeking more flexibility, the Tickets Only** options allow you to explore at your own pace with optional guides.
Those on a budget will appreciate the Entry Ticket Only or Tickets & Guide options, especially if you’re comfortable navigating sites independently. Book early to secure your preferred time slot, particularly during peak season.
Luoyang offers a wide range of tours and experiences that cater to every traveler — whether you want a quick glimpse or a deep dive into its ancient sites. For history lovers, the Longmen Grottoes are a must-see, while martial arts enthusiasts will find the Shaolin Temple fascinating. For a mix, private tours combining both sites with local guides are a great way to maximize your visit. Remember, these experiences tend to fill quickly, so booking early ensures you won’t miss out on your top choices in Luoyang.