Best Shaolin & Longmen Grottoes Tours in Luoyang

Among the 43 options we compare across booking platforms, most tours fall in the $186–$265 range, with a median price of $223. You will find some listings starting around $95 and others going up to $316. The lower end often reflects smaller group sizes or basic transport, while higher-priced options usually include private vehicles, hotel pickup, and meals.

Yes. While martial arts is a niche theme (found in only 12% of options), it stands out as a value sweet spot. The martial arts-themed tours average an impressive 4.87★ rating at approximately $185, which is at or below the typical price for the broader category yet rated higher than the overall average. If you want high-rated cultural immersion without paying a premium, this is a strong pick.

Most travellers opt for convenience. About two-thirds of the options we compare (63%) include a guide, and roughly half (51%) use a private vehicle rather than public transport. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available on 40% of tours, while entry tickets and meals are included in about one-third of options each. Since 98% are guided tours, you can expect commentary throughout the day.

It is highly suitable. A striking 84% of the options listed are private tours, meaning you can book the experience exclusively for your party rather than joining a large public group. This format is ideal for families or small groups who prefer flexible pacing. Additionally, 58% of these private options offer free cancellation, giving you plenty of room to adjust plans if needed.

You should plan for a full day. The duration typically ranges from 6.2 to 12 hours, with a median of 8.5 hours. This accounts for travel between Luoyang city centre, the Longmen Grottoes, and the Shaolin Temple complex. Be sure to check the specific itinerary of the listing you choose, as some shorter options may skip hotel pickup or combine activities more tightly.

We find options available in 7 languages: English, Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Spanish, Italian, French, and German. Since 98% of the tours are guided, language support is generally reliable. However, availability varies by operator, so verify the language option when filtering your search results to ensure your preferred guide is available.

The consensus is overwhelmingly positive. Across 122 pooled reviews, the average rating is 4.59★, and sentiment analysis shows about 91% of feedback is positive. Reviewers frequently describe the guides as "extremely knowledgeable," "witty and funny," and "excellent." They also commonly recommend the tours for their smooth logistics and insightful historical context.

Take Bus 81 or 60 directly to the site. The ride takes about 40 minutes and costs only 1 yuan.

Book tickets online early for major parks like Wangcheng Park. Visit in April when blooms peak for the best experience.

Most small eateries use WeChat Pay or Alipay. Carry cash as backup since not all vendors accept international cards.