3 Days Luoyang Longmen Grottoes & Shaolin Kung Fu Tour from Beijing

Day 1

Your personal driver will meet you at your hotel in Beijing, the train station, or the airport, ensuring a smooth transfer to the high-speed train or flight to Luoyang, a journey of approximately 4 hours. Upon arrival in Luoyang, your dedicated guide from Your Way Holiday will be waiting at the train station or airport exit, easily identifiable with personalized signage. They will assist with a smooth transfer to your hotel, where you can settle in and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to explore the city. Embrace the "Travel like a local" philosophy with opportunities to discover Luoyang's cultural and historical attractions independently, while our local insights and seamless services enhance your travel experience.

By the way, for your convenience and cost-effectiveness, we've booked round-trip train tickets online for your Beijing to Luoyang journey. You can easily collect these tickets at the station ticket office by presenting your passports, enjoying the privilege of smooth and priority entry and exit. In Luoyang, our professional guide from Your Way Holiday will meet you at the train station exit, identifiable with a personalized signage, to welcome you to the city. They will ensure a seamless transfer to your hotel, where you can settle in before exploring the city at your own pace. Our guide, fluent in multiple languages, will provide insightful commentary on Luoyang's attractions, enriching your experience. Additionally, our skilled driver will ensure your comfort and safety throughout the journey in a well-maintained vehicle, embodying our commitment to a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Day 2

After breakfast, your tour begins with a visit to the Longmen Grottoes, renowned as some of the finest examples of Chinese Buddhist art. These grottoes house tens of thousands of statues of Buddha and his disciples, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship spanning centuries. Within the 2,345 caves, you'll find an impressive array of statues ranging from tiny 1-inch (25 mm) carvings to monumental figures towering up to 57 feet (17 m) in height. The site also features nearly 2,500 stelae and inscriptions, earning it the nickname "Forest of Ancient Stelae," along with over sixty Buddhist pagodas scattered throughout the area. Nestled in a picturesque natural setting, the grottoes were meticulously carved into a 1-kilometer (0.62 mi) stretch of cliff along both banks of the river, offering a serene and culturally rich environment to explore. Our knowledgeable guide will provide detailed insights into the historical and artistic significance of the Longmen Grottoes, enriching your visit with stories of the Buddhist monks and artisans who contributed to this magnificent site. They'll ensure you have ample time to admire the intricate details of the sculptures and appreciate the spiritual aura that pervades this UNESCO World Heritage site.

In the afternoon, your journey continues with a visit to White Horse Temple, revered as China's first Buddhist temple, founded in 68 AD during the Eastern Han dynasty under Emperor Ming's patronage in Luoyang. Situated east of Luoyang, just beyond the ancient city walls, this historic site is widely regarded as "the cradle of Chinese Buddhism." Surrounded by natural landmarks such as Manghan Mountain and the Lucoche River to the south, White Horse Temple offers a serene setting to explore its ancient halls, pagodas, and tranquil gardens. Our knowledgeable guide will provide insights into the temple's pivotal role in spreading Buddhism across China, enriching your understanding of its cultural significance and architectural splendor.

After the tour of White Horse Temple, our attentive guide and skilled driver will ensure your comfortable return to your hotel in Luoyang. Throughout the journey, our guide will share fascinating insights into the historical and spiritual significance of White Horse Temple, China's first Buddhist temple. Meanwhile, our driver will navigate the city's streets with precision in our well-maintained vehicle, ensuring your safety and comfort. Reflect on the day's discoveries as you relax and unwind, marking the end of a memorable exploration in Luoyang.

Day 3

Today, your first destination is the legendary Shaolin Temple, also known as the Shaolin Monastery, nestled in Dengfeng County, Luoyang. Dating back 1,500 years to its founding by Fang Lu-Hao, this historic temple remains the principal center of the Shaolin school of Buddhism. Shaolin Temple and its Pagoda Forest are honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized among the "Historic Monuments of Dengfeng." Explore the temple's intricate architecture, including its iconic Hall of Heavenly Kings and the revered Pagoda Forest, where ancient stone pagodas mark the final resting places of revered monks. Delve into the temple's rich legacy of Chan ("Zen") Buddhism, renowned martial arts traditions, and the serene beauty of its mountainous surroundings, offering a profound insight into centuries of spiritual and cultural heritage.

You will have the unique opportunity to witness an authentic Kung Fu performance by the skilled monks at Shaolin Temple. After this exhilarating experience, our knowledgeable guide and experienced driver will escort you to your hotel in Luoyang or Luoyang Railway Station for your train journey back to Beijing. Upon arrival in Beijing, our dedicated driver will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel, navigating the city's bustling streets with ease in our comfortable and well-maintained vehicle. Reflect on the day's cultural discoveries and memorable experiences as you settle in for a relaxing evening in Beijing.

Price Per Person in US Dollars