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Your Location: Home > Diverse Xi'an Tours & Packages > Side Trips and Day Tours From Xi'an > Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple

Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple

From $175 per person
Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple
  • Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple
  • Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple
  • Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple
  • Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple
  • Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple
  • Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple
  • Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple
  • Xi'an to Luoyang Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple

Tour Style:
This day tour is based in Luoyang and covers two of its best-known sights, the Longmen Grottoes and the Shaolin Temple, with a local English-speaking guide. Your guide meets you at Luoyang Longmen train station in the morning and takes you first to the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site of Buddhist cave carvings cut into the cliffs along the Yi River canyon from the Northern Wei dynasty onward. In the afternoon you continue to the Shaolin Temple at the foot of the Songshan Mountains, the monastery long tied to Chan Buddhism and to Shaolin kung fu, where you watch a kung fu demonstration. The day runs about 8 to 9 hours. Entrance fees and transport between the sites are included; lunch is at your own expense. It ends back at Luoyang Longmen train station or at your Luoyang hotel.

Duration: 8-9 hours

Attractions(Cities):
Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple

Pick-up point:
Luoyang train station

Finishing point:
Luoyang train station, Luoyang hotel

Tour Customizable:
Absolutely! (Tell us your requirements in your inquiry)

Payment Types:
Cash, Wire, Paypal, WesternUnion, Wechat, Alipay, Bank transfer

Available: Daily

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Tour Itinerary
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Tour Itinerary

  • Place&Transport: Xi'an to Luoyang by Bullet Train
  • Today's Activities: Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple
  • Accommodation: N/A
  • Meal: To avoid touristy pre-made meals, our guides will recommend top local restaurants, help you choose dishes, and explain their cultural significance for an authentic taste of local cuisine

Meeting at Luoyang Station

In the morning your Luoyang guide meets you at the exit of Luoyang Longmen train station, holding a "Your Way Holiday" sign, and helps with your bags. The guide goes over the day: Longmen Grottoes first, lunch, then the Shaolin Temple, with a car and driver taking you between the sites.

Your Way Holiday guide meeting guests at Luoyang Longmen train station

Longmen Grottoes

The first stop is the Longmen Grottoes, about 12.5 km south of central Luoyang in Henan, where Buddhist statues and reliefs are carved straight into the cliffs along the Yi River canyon. Work began in the Northern Wei dynasty (386-534 AD) and continued under later dynasties, and the site is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Your guide walks you past the major caves, points out dated carvings, and explains who paid for them and why, so the scale and the craft make sense rather than blurring together.

Buddhist cave carvings cut into the cliff at the Longmen GrottoesRows of carved niches along the Yi River at the Longmen Grottoes

Lunch Near the Grottoes

After the grottoes, your guide takes you to a local restaurant for lunch. The meal is on your own, so you order what you like; if you want a vegetarian or vegan plate, say so and the guide will pick a place that serves the kind of simple Buddhist-style cooking you also see around the Shaolin Temple. Your guide can explain the local dishes as they arrive.

A plate of vegetarian dishes at a lunch stop in LuoyangBuddhist-style vegetarian meal served near the Shaolin Temple

Shaolin Temple

In the afternoon you drive to the Shaolin Temple at the foot of the Songshan Mountains. The temple was founded in 495 AD during the Northern Wei, and thirty-two years later the Indian monk Bodhidharma came to teach Chan Buddhism, which is why he is called the first patriarch of the Chan school. Most of the buildings you see today date to the Ming or Qing dynasty and cover roughly 30,000 square meters. In the Buddha Hall your guide walks you through the Ming-dynasty paintings and the layout of the complex.

Gate and hall of the Shaolin Temple below the Songshan MountainsCourtyard inside the Shaolin Temple complex in Henan

Shaolin Kung Fu

Shaolin kung fu grew up around the temple within the monastic life of the Songshan Mountains. You watch a kung fu demonstration while your guide explains where the practice came from and how it connects to Chan Buddhist training: balance, precision, and steady attention rather than only fighting. The guide also covers how Shaolin kung fu spread into film, books, and popular ideas about martial arts, and can go deeper on any part of it you are curious about.

Shaolin kung fu demonstration at the templeMonks performing kung fu stances during the Shaolin demonstration

Back to Luoyang Station

At the end of the visit your guide and driver take you back to Luoyang Longmen train station, or to your Luoyang hotel if that is easier for you. On the drive your guide can answer questions about what you saw and help you plan the rest of your time in Luoyang. The car and driver stay with you all day, so the transfers between the grottoes, lunch, and the temple are handled for you.

Questions Before You Book

Where do we get picked up?

At Luoyang Longmen train station. This tour starts and ends in Luoyang; it is not picked up in Xi'an.

How long is the day?

About eight to nine hours from the station pickup to the drop-off.

Is lunch included?

No. Your guide stops at a local restaurant and you pay for what you order. Vegetarian and vegan meals are easy to arrange.

What is included in the price?

A local English-speaking guide, a private car and driver for the transfers between the sites, and entrance fees to the Longmen Grottoes and the Shaolin Temple.

Do we need to climb much?

No serious climbing. The grottoes are walked along a level riverside path with some steps at the caves, and the temple sits on flat ground.

Can we be dropped at a Luoyang hotel instead of the station?

Yes. Tell your guide during the day and the driver can finish at your Luoyang hotel rather than the station.

Optional Activities

At Your Way Holiday, we strive to enhance the depth and flexibility of your travel experience by offering a range of optional additions to our core tour itineraries. Our itineraries are designed to provide exceptional flexibility, allowing you to tailor your journey according to your preferences. Select from a variety of activities and experiences to enrich your itinerary, ensuring a personalized adventure that perfectly aligns with your interests. With Your Way Holiday, you have the freedom to create a memorable travel experience that is uniquely yours.

Experience the Luoyang Water Banquet
Try the Luoyang Water Banquet (Shui Xi) for a sit-down local meal. This traditional meal, originating from the Tang Dynasty, features a series of soups and dishes served in a specific order, built around fresh seasonal ingredients. Initially created for imperial feasts, it has become a beloved local tradition. The banquet includes tender meats, savory dumplings, and aromatic broths. Your guide will explain the cultural significance of each dish, offering insight into Chinese food traditions. For food lovers or those seeking a special experience, the Luoyang Water Banquet is a good way to try the region’s culinary heritage.

luoyang-Water-Banquet-Luoyang-foodluoyang-Water-Banquet-Luoyang-food-Luoyang

Stroll Through Luoyang Luoyi Ancient City
Explore Luoyi Ancient City, once the capital of thirteen dynasties and one of the old capitals of China. Known as the "Cultural Holy City," it is centered around the restored Wenfeng Tower, with buildings reflecting the architectural styles of the Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing, and Republican periods. Located just 14 kilometers from the Longmen Grottoes, this city offers a look at China's long history. Your guide will share insights into its historical significance, making it a good stop for anyone interested in old Chinese capitals.

Luoyang-Luoyi-Ancient-City-LuoyangLuoyang-Luoyi-Ancient-City

From $175 per person
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Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes

1. Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views.
2. Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs.
3. Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees.
4. Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service.
5. Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time.
6. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey.
7. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.


Price Excludes

1. Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary.
2. Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD)
3. Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. The tipping standards are as follows: Driver: 50-100 RMB per day/group; Guide: 100-200 RMB per day/group.
4. Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included.
5. Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.


How Our Teams Serve you at Your Way Holiday

Personalized Travel Consultant
Experience the best of China with our expert travel consultants by your side. With years of local tourism experience, they are not only professional and knowledgeable but also deeply committed to making your trip unforgettable. Your dedicated consultant will craft a bespoke tour plan tailored to your unique interests, schedule, and budget, offering you the utmost flexibility. From the moment you start planning until the end of your journey, they will be in touch, ensuring every detail is perfect and that your trip runs smoothly.

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Exceptional Local Guides
Discover it through the eyes of our exceptional local guides. All certified and experienced, they are passionate about sharing their deep knowledge of attractions, history, and culture. Whether you're interested in hidden gems or popular sites, they know the best places to visit. They can recommend top local restaurants, unique shopping spots, and must-see shows. Beyond just guiding, they provide enriching insights into the history, customs, and authentic daily life, making your experience truly immersive.

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Premium Private Transportation
Travel in comfort and style with our premium private transportation. We offer a fleet of air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean, and meticulously maintained vehicles, all less than four years old. Our professional drivers, all locals with over a decade of driving experience, are friendly, courteous, and dedicated to your safety and comfort. Depending on your group's size, we provide a range of vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, business vans (MPVs), and spacious buses, all with ample luggage space.

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Authentic Dining Experiences
We prioritize genuine local culinary experiences over pre-arranged tourist restaurants. Our local guides will recommend the best local restaurants where you can savor authentic flavors. This approach ensures you enjoy the freshest, most authentic meals, tailored to your preferences, and experience the true essence of the local cuisine. Whether your dietary needs are vegetarian, Muslim, Chinese, Western, Jewish, or Indian, we have excellent options to make every meal a delightful part of your journey.

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Questions & Answers or Review
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J
James Whitfield
starstarstarstarstar
Reviewed on 19 October 2026

Long day but the Longmen Grottoes are breathtaking and the high speed train made it easy. The guide was knowledgeable about the Buddhist carvings and we also caught Shaolin Temple. Only reason for four stars is the pace at Shaolin felt a touch tight, we would have liked twenty more minutes there. Train tickets and transfers were all handled so we did not stress.

Replied:28 October 2026

Thanks for the honest note, James. You are right that Shaolin can feel tight when it is squeezed into a day with the grottoes - we have flagged it and can trim the schedule there for future guests. Glad the train side ran smoothly.

Your Way Holiday - Your trusted partner for private tours in China!

C
Chee Y
Reviewed on 12 June 2025

Our trip to Luoyang was absolutely incredible, especially the visits to the Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple. I can't thank our driver and guide enough for organizing everything so seamlessly and for sharing such fascinating stories throughout the day. The pacing was perfect, and the entire experience was truly unforgettable. I highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting the area!

Replied:28 October 2026

Hi Chee, thank you - Luoyang is a big day trip and I'm glad the Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin flowed so well for you. Our drivers and guides take real pride in that kind of pacing, so your note will make their day.

Your Way Holiday - Your trusted partner for private tours in China!

I
Isabella M
Reviewed on 04 March 2025

I had an incredible experience on the One Day Xian-Luoyang Grottoes Tour by High-Speed Train! From the moment I boarded the train, everything was seamless. The travel was fast, comfortable, and convenient. Our guide was very knowledgeable and shared fascinating stories about the history of the Luoyang Grottoes and the art behind the statues. The grottoes were absolutely stunning, with detailed carvings that were awe-inspiring. I also appreciated the ease of the high-speed train journey, allowing us to maximize our time at the site. This tour was a perfect blend of culture, history, and convenience. Highly recommended!

Replied:28 October 2026

Hi Isabella, doing Luoyang by bullet train from Xi'an is one of our favorites - fast, comfy, and you land right at the Longmen Grottoes. Glad the guide's stories rounded it out.

Your Way Holiday - Your trusted partner for private tours in China!

J
Jennie L
Reviewed on 18 February 2025

Our guide, Nancy, was knowledgeable and engaging, providing detailed insights into each site's history. The transport was clean and comfortable, making the trip enjoyable. The Kungfu show at the Shaolin Temple was impressive and entertaining. We had a great time, and Nancy’s excellent guidance made the day memorable. Highly recommend this tour!

Replied:28 October 2026

Hi Jennie, pairing the sites with the Shaolin Kungfu show makes for a memorable day, and I'm glad Nancy and the comfortable transport tied it all together. Thank you!

Your Way Holiday - Your trusted partner for private tours in China!

T
Trang D
Reviewed on 13 February 2025

What an unforgettable experience! The sheer scale and beauty of the site took our breath away. My husband and I were completely captivated as we explored the intricate carvings—each one with its own fascinating story. Moving from grotto to grotto felt like stepping back in time, with each turn revealing something new and awe-inspiring. Our guide, Lisa, was exceptional—her rich knowledge of the history, paired with her witty and engaging personality, made the visit even more enjoyable. I highly recommend this tour and the company to anyone looking for a truly memorable experience!

Replied:28 October 2026

Hi Trang, grotto to grotto at Longmen really does feel like stepping back in time, and I'm glad the carvings captivated you two. Thanks for such an evocative description.

Your Way Holiday - Your trusted partner for private tours in China!

M
Michel D
Reviewed on 16 October 2024

Our journey to Luoyang and Dengfeng was truly unforgettable. We visited the magnificent Longmen Grottoes, carved into the cliffs along the Yi River, where the intricate Buddhist statues left us in awe. Our guide provided in-depth knowledge, sharing fascinating stories at each stop, particularly about the Lushena Buddha carved under Wu Zetian's reign. The Shaolin Temple was another highlight, where the guide's insights into its martial arts legacy enriched our experience. The driver was highly skilled, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride throughout the day. With a clean, well-maintained vehicle, we traveled in total comfort, able to relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. The pace was perfect, allowing us to fully explore each site without feeling rushed. I highly recommend this tour for anyone wanting to dive into Xi'an's rich history, supported by excellent service and expertise.

Replied:28 October 2026

Hi Michel, Longmen along the Yi River never stops impressing, and Dengfeng adds the temple side nicely. I'm glad your guide's depth matched the setting.

Your Way Holiday - Your trusted partner for private tours in China!

C
Carla W
Reviewed on 13 October 2024

We took a super-fast, comfortable high-speed train from Xi'an to Luoyang. Our friendly guide, Lily, met us and made the whole day interesting with great insights at both Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple. The Kung Fu show was a highlight, and Lily’s knowledge really brought it all to life. Our driver was excellent, and the car was spotless. Overall, it was a fantastic family trip—highly recommend for anyone wanting to explore China’s history with the ease of high-speed trains!

Replied:28 October 2026

Hi Carla, the fast train to Luoyang makes Longmen and Shaolin an easy day, and the Kung Fu show is always the bit people talk about after. Lily will be glad.

Your Way Holiday - Your trusted partner for private tours in China!

D
Dave M
Reviewed on 04 September 2024

What a fantastic experience! From the moment we first inquired, the company was incredibly responsive, getting back to us within 24 hours and providing a fantastic itinerary. Julia, our guide, was amazing—she explained everything so well and was great to be around. We visited the awe-inspiring Longmen Grottoes and explored the historic Shaolin Temple. Julia made sure every detail was taken care of and answered all our questions with patience. Highly recommended for a smooth and memorable tour!

Replied:28 October 2026

Hi Dave, Julia is one of our strongest guides and I'm glad she made the itinerary come alive after that quick start. Thanks for highlighting her.

Your Way Holiday - Your trusted partner for private tours in China!

J
Jordan N
Reviewed on 04 September 2024

We booked our summer break with China Xi'an Tours/Your Way Holiday
again, and it was fantastic! This time, we enjoyed a smooth and comfy day trip from Xi'an to Luoyang. The high-speed train ride was super efficient and relaxing. Iris from Your Way Holiday was incredible—she handled everything from our itinerary to the Xi'an travel visa and hotels, and even scored us those hard-to-get train tickets. Iris, our guide, was amazing—skilled, friendly, and made our visits to the Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple really fun and interesting. Can’t wait for our next adventure with them!

Replied:28 October 2026

Hi Jordan, coming back a second time is the highest compliment we get. Glad the Luoyang train day ran efficiently for you. Thanks for traveling with us again.

Your Way Holiday - Your trusted partner for private tours in China!

A
Alice
Reviewed on 04 September 2024

Tour was amazing! From the start, we felt very supported and well taken care of. Ms. Lou and Agnes were incredibly welcoming and made sure we were comfortable in the car. The visit to Shaolin Temple and Longmen Grottoes was super great! Agnes was very informative and really knows her stuff, sharing fascinating details at each stop. Thank you for such a fun time! This tour is a must for anyone who wants to learn and have fun!

Replied:28 October 2026

Hi Alice, Ms. Lou and Agnes make travelers feel looked after from the first hello, and Shaolin plus Longmen is a rich day. Glad it all came together.

Your Way Holiday - Your trusted partner for private tours in China!

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