The best way to go Luoyang from Xi’an is taking high speed train.
The train ride from Xi’an to Luoyang takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete the journey. The actual distance between the two cities is 380 kilometers (236 miles).

There are many daily departures, with over 100 trains operating between Xi’an and Luoyang each day, including both high-speed and normal-speed options. This frequent service makes it easy for you to plan a day trip or longer visit to Luoyang without hassle.

For a day trip from Xi’an to Luoyang, it is indeed better to opt for a two-day Luoyang tour to fully appreciate the highlights, particularly the Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple. A single day may feel too rushed, as both sites are significant and require ample time to explore.

The Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, features thousands of intricate Buddhist carvings and statues that date back over 1,500 years. Exploring this vast complex can take several hours, especially if you want to absorb the artistry and historical context of the site.

Following the grottoes, visiting the Shaolin Temple, the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu, adds another layer of cultural richness to your experience. The temple is located about 1.5 hours drive ( single way ) from Luoyang, and attending a martial arts performance or taking a short Kung Fu class is highly recommended, which further extends the time needed.

A two-day Luoyang tour allows for a more relaxed pace, ensuring you can fully enjoy both the Longmen Grottoes and the Shaolin Temple without feeling rushed.

Longmen Grottoes:
This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its stunning collection of Buddhist carvings and statues, which date back to the Northern Wei Dynasty. Visitors can explore over 2,300 caves and thousands of statues, showcasing exceptional artistry and craftsmanship.

Shaolin Temple:
Known as the birthplace of Shaolin Kung Fu, this temple is a significant cultural landmark. Located about 60 kilometers from Luoyang, it offers visitors the chance to witness martial arts performances and learn about the temple’s historical importance in Chinese Buddhism.

White Horse Temple:
Considered the first Buddhist temple in China, established in 68 AD, this site is vital for understanding the introduction of Buddhism to China. The temple complex features beautiful architecture and serene gardens, making it a peaceful stop on your tour.

Chariots and Horses Bural Site Museum:
This museum showcases artifacts from the Eastern Zhou Dynasty, providing insight into ancient burial practices and the region’s history.

The best time to go on Luoyang tours is from April to October, when the weather is warm and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. This period is ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, particularly for visiting the Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple, which are best enjoyed without inclement weather.

Luoyang is well connected to other cities in China through various transportation options, including air, train, and bus services.
It has direct high-speed train connections to cities like Beijing, Xi’an, Zhengzhou, and Wuhan. The high-speed trains provide efficient travel options, with journeys to Beijing taking about 4 hours and to Xi’an approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.