Luoyang boasts numerous free scenic spots. Below is a categorized list covering historical sites, museums, urban parks and night sightseeing spots. Most venues offer free admission, while a few require prior reservation.
Historical & Cultural Sites (Free entry, reservation required for partial spots)
1.Luoyi Ancient City
Location: Intersection of Jiudu East Road and Liulin Street, Old Town
Highlights: Iconic Wenfeng Pagoda, ancient streets and stunning lantern night views. It is a popular spot for Hanfu photography, accessible via Metro Line 1.
2.North Square of Yingtian Gate
Location: North side of Yingtian Gate, Luolong District
Highlights: Enjoy free 3D light shows on weekends starting at 20:30. Perfect place to capture night views of the grand Tang-style city gate.
3.Old Town Cross Street, Drum Tower & East-West Main Street
Location: Zhongzhou East Road and East Street, Old Town
Highlights: Well-preserved ancient streets dating back to the Ming and Qing dynasties, bustling night markets and picturesque night scenery of the Drum Tower.
4.Shangyang Palace
Location: Intersection of Binhe North Road and Shangyang Road, Xigong District
Highlights: Restored imperial garden of the Tang Dynasty, ideal for leisure walks and photography.
5.Chanhe Cherry Blossom Scenic Belt
Location: Binhe North Road and Xunhe Road, Old Town
Highlights: Ruins park of the Sui and Tang dynasties, featuring elegant ancient bridges and tranquil river scenery with fewer crowds.
Museums (Free admission, reservation mandatory)
1.Luoyang Museum
Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Last entry at 16:30), closed on Mondays
Location: Nie Tai Road, Luolong District
Highlights: Displays comprehensive local history and exquisite tri-color glazed pottery relics.
2.Erlitou Site Museum of the Xia Capital
Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Last entry at 16:00), closed on Mondays
Location: Zhenxun Avenue, Yanshi District
Highlights: Known as the origin of early Chinese civilization, showcasing precious cultural relics of the Xia Dynasty.
3.Luoyang Ancient Tombs Museum
Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00 (Last entry at 16:30), closed on Mondays
Location: Airport Road, Old Town
Highlights: Unique underground tomb clusters and ancient mural art.
4.Sui-Tang Grand Canal Culture Museum
Opening Hours: 9:00-19:00, closed on Mondays (Open during holidays)
Location: Binhe North Road, Old Town
Highlights: In-depth exhibition of canal history and distinctive architectural appearance.
5.Former Site of the Eighth Route Army Office in Luoyang
Free entry with reservation, a famous red cultural scenic spot.
Urban Parks (Free access all day)
1.Luopu Park
Highlights: Long riverside ecological park, great for cycling and casual strolls.
2.Sui-Tang Dynasty Relics Botanical Garden
Highlights: Vast green lands and lakes on ancient palace ruins, a wonderful place for flower viewing and family outings.
3.Xiyuan Park
Highlights: Elegant Jiangnan-style garden with small bridges and flowing water, a premium photography location.
4.Zhoushan Forest Park
Highlights: Forest hiking trails on the western urban fringe, offering panoramic city views from the mountain top.
Lesser-Known Free Spots
- Luoyang Science and Technology Museum, Nanchang Road, Jianxi District.
- Luoyang Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, Wenbo Road, Luolong District.
- Longfeng Mountain Ancient Town, Yichuan County, featuring magnificent Song-style night landscapes.
Reservation Tips
- Museums: Book tickets one day in advance via official WeChat mini-programs, enter with valid ID cards.
- Ancient streets and parks: Direct admission without reservation.