ChinaTravel Tips

Transportation and Navigation around Luoyang Longmen Grottoes

1. How can one get from the city center of Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes?


There are several ways to get from the city center of Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes:

1. By public bus: You can take bus no. 60 or tourist bus no. 81 from the Luoyang Railway Station or central bus station (Luoyang Gongjiao Yizhan) to the Longmen Grottoes. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs 2-3 RMB.

2. By taxi: Taxis are readily available in Luoyang, and you can easily find one to take you to the Longmen Grottoes. The ride takes around 30 minutes and costs approximately 50-70 RMB.

3. By organized tour: Many tour companies offer organized tours from Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes, which typically include transportation, entrance fees, and a guide.

4. By bike: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle and cycle from Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes, which is about a 12 km journey. This is a great way to enjoy the scenery along the way.

5. By private car or driver: You can hire a private car or driver for a more comfortable and convenient trip from Luoyang city center to the Longmen Grottoes.

Note: During peak seasons, it is recommended to purchase tickets for the grottoes in advance as there may be long queues at the ticket office. It is also advised to visit early in the day as crowds tend to be larger in the afternoon.

2. Are there any public transportation options available to reach the Longmen Grottoes from Luoyang?


Yes, there are several public transportation options available to reach the Longmen Grottoes from Luoyang:

1. Bus: You can take bus 81 from Luoyang Railway Station or bus 53 from Luoyang Longmen Railway Station to reach the Longmen Grottoes. The journey takes about 30 minutes and tickets cost around 2-3 RMB.

2. Taxi: You can also take a taxi from Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes. It takes about 20 minutes and costs around 35-40 RMB.

3. Metro: If you are staying in the city center, you can take Line 2 of the Luoyang Metro and get off at Longmen Shi Ku station. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the grottoes.

4. Tour buses: There are also tour buses available from Luoyang that go directly to the Longmen Grottoes. This is a convenient option for tourists who want a guided tour and hassle-free transportation.

5. Bicycle rental: If you enjoy cycling, you can also rent a bicycle in Luoyang and ride to the grottoes along the scenic riverside path. The journey takes about an hour.

Overall, there are plenty of transportation options available to reach the Longmen Grottoes from Luoyang, making it easily accessible for visitors.

3. How much does it cost to take a taxi from Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes?


The cost of taking a taxi from Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes can vary depending on factors such as traffic and the type of taxi. On average, it can cost around 50-80 RMB ($7-12 USD) for a regular taxi and 100-150 RMB ($15-22 USD) for a larger, more comfortable taxi. It is always best to negotiate and agree on a price with the driver before beginning your journey.

4. Can you recommend any tour companies that offer transportation to the Longmen Grottoes from Luoyang?


Here are a few tour companies that offer transportation to the Longmen Grottoes from Luoyang:

1. China Highlights – They offer private tours with pick-up and drop-off services from your hotel in Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes.

2. VisitOurChina – They also offer private tours with transfer services to the grottoes from Luoyang.

3. ChinaTravelDepot – This company offers both group and private tours to the grottoes, with transportation included.

4. Viator – You can book a small-group tour or a private tour with transportation to the grottoes through this company.

5. Discover China Trips – They offer combined tours of the Longmen Grottoes and other popular attractions in Luoyang, along with transportation between sites.

It is recommended to research each company’s reviews and prices, and choose one that best fits your budget and preferences for a hassle-free visit to the Longmen Grottoes.

5. Is it possible to rent a car or hire a private driver for a day trip to the Longmen Grottoes from Luoyang?


Yes, it is possible to rent a car or hire a private driver for a day trip to the Longmen Grottoes from Luoyang. Many local tour agencies offer private transportation services to the grottoes. Alternatively, you can also book a rental car with a driver through online travel platforms such as Ctrip or Trip.com.

6. Are there any shuttle buses or tourist buses that go directly to the Longmen Grottoes from major hotels in Luoyang?


Yes, there are shuttle buses and tourist buses that go directly to the Longmen Grottoes from major hotels in Luoyang. Some of these buses include:

1. Luoyang Tour Bus: This bus departs daily from several hotels in Luoyang, including Grand Metropark Hotel, New Friendship Hotel, and Zhuogengyuan International Hotel, and takes visitors directly to the Longmen Grottoes.

2. Sightseeing Bus Line 81: This tourist bus also runs daily from several hotels in Luoyang, such as Jinjiang Inn and Hyatt Place Luoyang, to the Longmen Grottoes. It is a hop-on hop-off bus that stops at various attractions along the way.

3. Luoyang Tourism Special Line 4: This shuttle bus runs from downtown Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes every 20 minutes during peak hours. It can be boarded at any designated stop along its route.

4. Private Tourist Bus: Many hotels in Luoyang offer private tour packages that include transportation to and from the Longmen Grottoes. These can be booked at the hotel’s travel desk or through a local tour agency.

It is advisable to check with your hotel for specific routes and schedules of these buses before planning your trip to the Longmen Grottoes. Additionally, taxis are also readily available in Luoyang and can take you directly to the grottoes if preferred.

7. How long does it take to travel from Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes by car/taxi/bus?


It takes about 30 minutes to travel from Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes by car or taxi, and about 45 minutes by bus.

8. Is parking available at the entrance of the Longmen Grottoes? If so, how much does it cost?


Yes, there is parking available at the entrance of the Longmen Grottoes. The cost for parking is 10 yuan per small car and 20 yuan for a large car.

9. Can I take a bicycle or scooter rental as a mode of transportation around the Longmen Grottoes area?


There are no bicycle or scooter rental services within the Longmen Grottoes area. However, there are electric golf cart rentals available for visitors who may have difficulty walking long distances. Visitors are also allowed to bring their own bicycles into the site, but they must be parked outside of the grottoes area and not ridden inside.

10. What is the best time of day/week/month/year to visit the Longmen Grottoes in terms of transportation and avoiding crowds?


The best time to visit the Longmen Grottoes is during mid-week (Tuesday to Thursday) and during the off-season months of November to February. This is when there will be less crowds and shorter lines for transportation. Generally, visiting in the early morning or late afternoon will allow for more favorable weather conditions and fewer visitors. It’s also important to take into consideration any major holidays or festivals in China that may attract larger crowds to the grottoes.

11. Are there any boat rides or river cruises available for transportation along the Yi River near the Longmen Grottoes area?

Yes, there are boat rides and river cruises available for transportation along the Yi River near the Longmen Grottoes. The most popular option is the Yi River Cruise, which takes visitors on a 40-minute round-trip journey from the dock near Longmen Grottoes to Guyang County. The cruise offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, bridges, and ancient temples. You can also rent private boats or take a bamboo raft ride along certain parts of the river.

12. How far away is Dengfeng city, and what are some transportation options available for day trips from Luoyang to Dengfeng and back?

Dengfeng city is approximately 78 kilometers (48 miles) from Luoyang city.

To travel from Luoyang to Dengfeng and back, you can take:

1. Bus: There are daily direct buses from Luoyang Long-distance Bus Station to Dengfeng Bus Station, with a journey time of about 2 hours.

2. Train: You can take a train from Luoyang Longmen Railway Station to Dengfeng Railway Station, with a journey time of about 45 minutes. However, the railway station in Dengfeng is located quite far from the main attractions, so you will need to take a taxi or bus to reach your destination.

3. Taxi: You can also hire a private taxi or car for the day trip to Dengfeng, which will give you more flexibility in terms of departure and arrival times.

4. Organized tour: Another option is to join an organized tour that includes transportation to and from Dengfeng as well as visits to various attractions in the area.

It is recommended to plan for at least a full day for the day trip to Dengfeng, as there are many significant historical and cultural sites worth visiting in this ancient city.

13. Are there any hiking trails or scenic routes available as alternative modes of transportation between Luoyang and the Longmen Grottoes?


Yes, there are several hiking trails and scenic routes available as alternative modes of transportation between Luoyang and the Longmen Grottoes. These include:

1. The Greenway Trail: This is a 6.5km-long paved trail that connects Luoyang with the Longmen Grottoes. It starts at the entrance of Luoyang Old Town and follows along the Yi River, offering scenic views of the river and the surrounding countryside.

2. The Old Stone Road: This is an ancient stone-paved road that runs from Luoyang to Longmen, passing through some scenic areas such as Jigu Road, Baiyun Mountain, and Xiguan Temple.

3. Biking Routes: There are several biking routes that connect Luoyang with the Longmen Grottoes, passing through scenic spots like Tianzhu Peak, Baihe Scenic Area, and Kanjing Temple.

4. Hiking Trails: Some hiking trails run from Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes, including those found in Baiyun Mountain Scenic Area and Laojunshan National Forest Park.

5. Floating Raft Tour: Another unique way to reach the Longmen Grottoes is by taking a floating raft tour along the Yi River from Luoyang to Longmen. This option allows you to enjoy beautiful scenery while traveling on traditional Chinese wooden rafts.

Before embarking on any of these alternative modes of transportation, it’s advisable to consult with a local tourist information center for more details on how to access these routes and their current conditions.

14. What types of public transportation are available within walking distance from major hotels near the Longmen Grottoes?


The types of public transportation available within walking distance from major hotels near the Longmen Grottoes may vary depending on the exact location of the hotel. However, some possible options include:

1. Buses: There are regular buses that connect major hotels near the Longmen Grottoes to the grottoes themselves and also to nearby cities like Luoyang.

2. Taxis: Taxis are readily available in most major hotels near the Longmen Grottoes and can be easily hailed or called for through a hotel concierge.

3. Tourist shuttles: Many hotels offer tourist shuttle services that take visitors directly to popular attractions like the Longmen Grottoes.

4. Bicycle rentals: Some hotels also offer bicycle rentals for guests who prefer to explore the area on their own.

5. Trains: Depending on their location, some hotels may be within walking distance from a train station, providing easy access to other areas in China.

It is recommended to check with your specific hotel for more information on nearby public transportation options.

15. Can I purchase round-trip tickets for public transportation from Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes or do I need to buy separate tickets for each leg of the journey?


It is possible to purchase round-trip tickets for public transportation from Luoyang to the Longmen Grottoes. The most convenient option would be to take the dedicated tourist bus line from Luoyang Longmen Railway Station or Longmen Metro Station directly to the grottoes and back. Alternatively, you could also take a regular city bus or taxi to and from the grottoes, but you would need to purchase separate tickets for each leg of the journey.

16. Are there any organized group tours that include transportation to and from the Longmen Grottoes as well as entrance fees?

Yes, there are organized group tours that include transportation to and from the Longmen Grottoes as well as entrance fees. Many tour companies offer day tours from major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an. You can also book group tours through your hotel or a travel agency in China.

Some popular options include:

1. Xi’an Group Day Tour to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes: This tour includes round-trip transportation from Xi’an, entrance fees to Longmen Grottoes, and a visit to other attractions such as the White Horse Temple. Prices start at around $150 USD per person.

2. Beijing One-Day Private Tour to Luoyang Longmen Grottoes: This private tour includes round-trip transportation from Beijing, entrance fees, and a private guide. Prices start at around $400 USD for two people.

3. Shanghai to Luoyang 2-Day Cultural Tour: This tour includes round-trip train tickets from Shanghai, accommodation in Luoyang, and a guided tour of Longmen Grottoes and other historical sites in the area. Prices start at around $300 USD per person.

It’s recommended to do some research and comparison before booking a tour to ensure you get the best value for your money.

17. What are some recommended methods of transportation to reach other popular attractions near the Longmen Grottoes, such as White Horse Temple or Songyang Academy?


1. Taxi or Ride-sharing – Taxis and ride-sharing services like Didi are easily available in the area and can take you directly to your desired destination.

2. Public Bus – There are two public buses that can take you to White Horse Temple from the Longmen Grottoes. Bus 53 takes around an hour, while bus 60 takes around 40 minutes.

3. Metro – Metro Line 2 connects to Songyang Academy via Luolong Station, which is a short walk from the grottoes.

4. Private Car Rental – You can also rent a car with a driver or drive yourself to these locations if you prefer a more convenient and flexible option.

5. Bike Rental – Bicycles can be rented at the entrance of the Longmen Grottoes, and there are bike paths that connect to other nearby attractions such as White Horse Temple.

6. Walking – If you have time and enjoy walking, it is possible to reach Songyang Academy on foot from Longmen Grottoes in about an hour and a half. The route goes through scenic countryside roads and offers a unique experience.

7. Group Tour – Most tour agencies offer combined tours to multiple attractions, including White Horse Temple and Songyang Academy, making it easy for tourists to visit these places in one day.

18. Are there any package deals available for transportation, accommodation, and admission tickets for a multi-day visit to Luoyang and the surrounding areas?


Yes, there are package deals available for a multi-day visit to Luoyang and the surrounding areas. These packages typically include transportation, accommodation, and admission tickets for various attractions in the area, such as the Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple, and Luoyang Museum. Some tour companies also offer customized packages that allow you to choose specific destinations and activities according to your preferences. It is recommended to research and compare different tour packages to find the best deal for your needs.

19. Is it necessary to book transportation in advance, or can I easily find options on the day of my visit to the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang?


It is recommended to book transportation in advance for your visit to the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, especially during peak travel times. This will ensure that you have a guaranteed mode of transportation and can save you time and hassle in trying to find options on the day of your visit. However, there may be options available on the day of your visit, such as taxis or tour buses, but availability cannot be guaranteed.

20. How accessible is public transportation for travelers with disabilities or special needs around the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang?


The public transportation around the Longmen Grottoes is not very accessible for travelers with disabilities or special needs. The grottoes are located about 12 kilometers away from the city center and there is no direct bus or subway stop near the main entrance.

Access to the grottoes can be difficult as there are steep and uneven paths leading up to the caves, which may be challenging for those with mobility issues. There is also limited wheelchair accessibility at the site.

However, there are some options available for those with disabilities or special needs. The Luoyang Tourist Bus No. 60 runs from Luoyang Railway Station to the Longmen Grottoes, and it is equipped with ramps and designated areas for wheelchair users. Additionally, there are electric sightseeing cars available at the main entrance of the grottoes, which can be used by visitors who have difficulty walking.

It is recommended that travelers with disabilities or special needs plan their visit in advance and arrange for a private transfer or accessible transportation option. Alternatively, they can also consider hiring a local tour guide who can assist with navigating the site and providing assistance if needed.