Luoyang: Longmen Grottoes and White Horse Temple Guided Tour

Luoyang boasts a rich cultural heritage, and the Longmen Grottoes and White Horse Temple are two must-visit sites that offer a glimpse into China’s Buddhist past. This guided tour promises an immersive experience, from the awe-inspiring carvings at the UNESCO-listed Longmen Grottoes to the historical significance of the country’s first Buddhist temple. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a deeper understanding of China’s spiritual traditions, this tour provides a comprehensive and captivating journey into the heart of Luoyang’s remarkable legacy.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Guided Tours In Luoyang.

Good To Know

• This private guided tour takes you to the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site with over 2,100 caves and 100,000 Buddhist sculptures, and the White Horse Temple, the first Buddhist temple in China.
• The tour lasts 8 hours, includes pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and air-conditioned transportation, as well as lunch and admission fees, depending on the package.
• At the Longmen Grottoes, you’ll explore the impressive sculptures and carvings from the Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties, with the option of a scenic boat cruise.
• The White Horse Temple tour covers the site’s rich history as the cradle of Chinese Buddhism, including its stunning architecture and significant shrines.
• The tour is not suitable for children under 2 years old, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The private guided tour from Luoyang takes visitors to the renowned Longmen Grottoes and the historic White Horse Temple.

Lasting 8 hours, the tour costs $138 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Guests can reserve now and pay later.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and air-conditioned transportation. Lunch at a local restaurant and admission fees are included, depending on the package selected.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 years old.

Highlights include exploring the UNESCO-listed Longmen Grottoes, visiting the first Buddhist temple in China, and enjoying scenic views along the way.

Itinerary Highlights

The Luoyang guided tour kicks off with pickup from either the guest’s Luoyang hotel or the Longmen railway station. The first stop is the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where guests will enjoy a 2.5-hour guided tour to explore the 2,100 caves and over 100,000 Buddhist sculptures and images from the late Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties. Next, the tour visits the White Horse Temple, the first Buddhist temple in China, for a 1.5-hour guided tour of the religious shrines and main areas, learning about the temple’s history. A local lunch featuring regional dishes is included in the package.

Itinerary Highlights	Duration
Longmen Grottoes	2.5 hours
White Horse Temple	1.5 hours
Lunch	–

Longmen Grottoes Exploration

Although housing over 2,100 caves and more than 100,000 Buddhist sculptures and images, the Longmen Grottoes tour focuses on exploring the highlights of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Guided by an expert, visitors will walk along the riverbanks to view the most impressive sculptures and carvings from the late Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties. This includes simple Buddha statues as well as richly carved caves showcasing the finest examples of Chinese art from the 4th to 10th centuries.

For a more scenic experience, guests can also opt for a boat cruise along the river to take in the magnificent grotto structures from the water.

Statues and Carvings

Numbering over 100,000, the Longmen Grottoes house an impressive collection of Buddhist statues and carvings that showcase the finest examples of Chinese art from the 4th to 10th centuries. These intricate sculptures range from simple Buddha figures to richly ornamented, life-sized depictions. The carvings display exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, with a variety of poses and facial expressions.

Statue Type	Period	Size	Material
Simple Buddha	Northern Wei	Small	Sandstone
Bodhisattva	Tang Dynasty	Life-sized	Limestone
Heavenly Kings	Tang Dynasty	Medium	Marble
Arhats	Tang Dynasty	Small to Medium	Limestone
Stone Carvings	Tang Dynasty	Varies	Sandstone

Exploring these breathtaking works of art offers a unique window into China’s cultural and religious heritage.

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Boat Cruise Option

Visitors often opt for a scenic boat cruise along the riverbanks of the Longmen Grottoes. This optional activity provides a unique perspective of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Gliding along the tranquil waters, travelers can admire the towering cliffs adorned with intricate Buddhist carvings and statues dating back to the Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties. The leisurely cruise allows ample time to appreciate the sheer scale and artistry of the Longmen Grottoes’ impressive collection.

With knowledgeable guides on hand, guests learn about the historical and cultural significance of this extraordinary site as they soak in the serene natural surroundings.

White Horse Temple History

The founding of the White Horse Temple in 68 AD marks a pivotal moment in the introduction of Buddhism to China. As the first Buddhist temple in the country, it is considered the cradle of Chinese Buddhism. The temple is located near the Mangshan Mountain, overlooking the River Luohe, and its history is intertwined with the spread of the religion across the region.

Dynasty	Year	Significance
Han	68 AD	Established by the Indian monks Madhyantika and Kasyapa Matanga
Tang	7th century	Expanded and renovated, becoming an important center of Buddhist learning
Song	11th century	Recognized as a national cultural heritage site
Ming	15th century	Underwent major renovations and reconstruction
Qing	19th century	Continued to be an important site of Buddhist practice and study

Religious Shrines and Areas

The White Horse Temple‘s religious shrines and main areas offer visitors an immersive glimpse into China’s Buddhist heritage.

Travelers can explore the temple’s stunning architecture, including the Main Hall, which houses a colossal Buddha statue. They’ll also discover shrines dedicated to revered Buddhist deities, like the Maitreya Buddha and the Goddess of Mercy.

Visitors can learn about the temple’s rich history, which dates back to the 1st century AD when it was founded by the Indian monk, Kasyapa Matanga.

As they wander through the temple’s serene grounds, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring influence of Buddhism in Chinese culture.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch (if the package tour is selected), and entrance fees (if the package tour is selected).

However, the basic tour excludes:

• Lunch
• Entrance fees

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 years of age.

The inclusions and exclusions provide clear details on what’s covered, ensuring a hassle-free experience for travelers exploring the historical and cultural wonders of Luoyang.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Private or Group-Based?

The tour is a private guided tour, with a pickup from the customer’s Luoyang hotel or the Longmen railway station. It’s not a group-based tour.

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage or Personal Items?

The tour allows small personal bags, but large luggage is not permitted. Participants should pack light as there are no storage facilities at the sites. Photography is allowed, but tripods may be restricted.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The dress code for this tour is casual and comfortable. Visitors are recommended to wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes as there is moderate walking involved at the sites.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Sites?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional sites. Travelers can work with the tour operator to tailor the itinerary to their interests and preferences, subject to availability and additional costs.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Yes, the tour company offers discounted rates for seniors aged 60 and above, as well as for students with valid IDs. These discounts typically range from 10-15% off the standard tour price.

The Sum Up

This guided tour to the Longmen Grottoes and White Horse Temple offers a captivating blend of cultural, historical, and religious exploration. Visitors can marvel at the intricate Buddhist sculptures, learn about the significance of the first Buddhist temple in China, and enjoy a delightful local lunch – all while being led by an informative English-speaking guide. It’s a must-see experience for anyone interested in China’s rich heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: