Louyang Day Tour from Xian: Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple

A comprehensive look at the Luoyang and Shaolin Tour from Xian

This full-day tour from Xian offers a fantastic opportunity to explore two of China’s most iconic sights—Longmen Grottoes and the Shaolin Temple—without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets. The experience is built around a smooth schedule, including high-speed train travel, private guides, and packed cultural highlights.

One thing we really like is how well-structured the day is—you’re whisked across cities efficiently, with all logistics taken care of, leaving you free to soak up the sights. The private guide promises personalized insights, making the visit more meaningful than a typical group tour.

That said, the long day might be tiring for some, especially considering the travel time and the crowds at some sites. If you’re after a laid-back experience or prefer a leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour suits travelers eager to tick off two must-see attractions in a single day, especially those who want a convenient, guided experience without the hassle of planning train tickets and transportation. It’s ideal for first-timers or those with limited time in China who want a taste of history, culture, and martial arts.

Key Points

• Convenient logistics: All transportation, entrance fees, and lunch are included, making it a hassle-free day.
• High-speed train: Travel is quick and comfortable, maximizing your sightseeing time.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides provide detailed explanations and local insights.
• Authentic experiences: Watching Shaolin monks perform Kung Fu is a highlight, along with exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• Crowd factor: Some sites may be busy and commercialized, which might affect the authenticity of the experience.
• Good value: The comprehensive package at around $268 offers a lot for the price, especially when considering entrance fees and train tickets.

The full experience: what to expect

Starting early with hotel pickup and high-speed train travel

The day begins bright and early, with hotel pickup around 6:50 am in Xian. From there, you’re taken to Xi’an North Railway Station for your high-speed train—a quick 1.5-hour journey that feels like a modern marvel. The train tickets are included, which is a real time-saver compared to booking separately, especially for non-Chinese speakers.

While we didn’t hear about guide service on the train itself, the smooth transfer and efficient scheduling mean you won’t feel rushed or lost. The comfortable, second-class seats make the journey pleasant and allow you to enjoy the scenery as you zoom toward Luoyang.

First stop: Longmen Grottoes

The Longmen Grottoes are a well-preserved treasure trove of over 100,000 stone statues, carvings, and inscriptions covering a 1,094-yard stretch along the Yi River. The guide will point out highlights like the massive Buddha statues—some as tall as 17 meters—and the intricate Buddhist carvings dating back over a thousand years.

One user noted how our guide, with fluent English and even some Spanish, made the history come alive. The site’s scale and artistry are impressive, but crowds can be a factor, especially during peak hours. The review from Yun Wah W reflected some disappointment about commercialization and crowding, mentioning that the experience felt somewhat Disneyland-like. This is worth considering if you prefer quieter, less touristy spots.

Head to Shaolin Temple

The next leg involves a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Shaolin Temple, revered as the birthplace of Chinese martial arts and Zen Buddhism. Here, the highlight is undoubtedly the Kung Fu demonstrations by Shaolin monks, showcasing astonishing martial arts skills that blend strength, agility, and discipline. The temple itself, dating back to 495 AD, is steeped in history, and your guide will explain its significance as a spiritual and martial hub.

According to reviews, the guide was very thorough in explaining both the history and current traditions, helping you appreciate the cultural depth behind the performances. The temple being listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site adds to the sense of importance—it’s a true cultural gem, though some might find the area slightly commercialized, reflecting its popularity.

Return journey: back to Xi’an

After roughly two and a half hours at Shaolin, you’ll head back to Luoyang railway station for your train G1933, departing around 7:08 pm, returning to Xi’an by 8:38 pm. The return train simplifies the logistics, letting you relax after a full day of sightseeing.

Once back in Xi’an, your driver will transfer you back to your hotel, concluding a long but fulfilling day.

Transportation and logistics

The air-conditioned private transport in both Xian and Luoyang ensures comfort and flexibility. The train tickets are arranged in advance, allowing for a seamless transition between cities without the stress of last-minute bookings. The tour’s timing is tight but efficient, so expect a full day of sightseeing.

Most travelers found the schedule well-paced, but some reviews mention the long hours and the commercial feel at some sites. The included lunch is a bonus, giving you a chance to refuel without extra expense.

What’s included and what’s not?

Included are all entrance fees and transportation, which greatly simplifies planning. The lunch adds value, and bottles of mineral water keep you hydrated. However, guide service on the train isn’t provided, so you’ll be mostly on your own during the ride. Meals outside lunch, tips, and personal expenses are not included.

Authentic insights from travelers

The reviews provide a balanced view—many appreciate the knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics, making the experience smooth and informative. Cristian_A praised the guide’s language skills and the overall treatment received, calling the trip “very worth it.” Conversely, some found the sites too crowded or overly commercialized, which might detract from the authenticity for some.

The guide’s ability to explain complex history clearly was especially valued, and the views at Longmen Grottoes, along with the martial arts demonstration at Shaolin, left lasting impressions.

Final thoughts: is this tour right for you?

This tour offers a well-rounded experience, perfect for those wanting to see iconic Chinese sites in a single, well-organized day. The inclusion of train travel, entrance fees, and lunch makes it good value, especially for first-time visitors or travelers with limited time.

It’s best suited for those who enjoy a full-day adventure and don’t mind some crowds or commercialized sites. If you’re interested in martial arts, Chinese Buddhism, or ancient stone carvings, you’ll find plenty to love here. The knowledgeable guides significantly enhance the visit, making the experience more meaningful and engaging.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or less touristy environments, you might find this tour a bit rushed or overly commercialized. Still, for a comprehensive snapshot of these two historic sites, it hits the mark.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off within the 2nd ring road of Xi’an, making your day hassle-free.

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts approximately 14 hours, from early morning pickup to evening return to your hotel.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all the entrance fees for Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple are covered in the tour price.

What about train tickets?
Round-trip second-class bullet train tickets between Xi’an and Luoyang are included, ensuring smooth and quick travel.

Can children join?
Yes, children under 2 are free, and those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking and exploring for much of the day.

Is the tour suitable for non-Chinese speakers?
Absolutely. The guide speaks English (and some Spanish), which is helpful for understanding the sites and performances.

What’s not included in the price?
Guide service on the train, meals outside of lunch, tips, and personal expenses are not included.

Is the tour canceled in bad weather?
It requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked 30 days in advance, reflecting its popularity and the well-organized logistics.

This Luoyang and Shaolin tour from Xian combines ancient artistry, martial tradition, and modern convenience—making it an excellent choice for travelers eager to experience China’s soul in one memorable day.