Private Tour: Longmen Grottoes, Shaolin Temple & Kungfu Show

When it comes to experiencing China’s incredible cultural and historical treasures, few trips can match the richness of combining visits to the Longmen Grottoes and Shaolin Temple in one day. This private tour from Ping’s Tours offers a seamless way to explore these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, complete with a knowledgeable guide, private transportation, and authentic local experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, martial arts enthusiast, or simply seeking an immersive cultural journey, this tour aims to deliver.

What we love about this experience is how it manages to balance comfort and authenticity. First, the all-inclusive package means you don’t have to worry about the logistics or costs—everything from entrance tickets to a traditional Chinese lunch is covered. Second, the expert guides share engaging stories that bring the sites to life, making history both accessible and memorable. Third, the private vehicle and driver offer flexibility and comfort, allowing you to enjoy the day at your own pace. That said, a potential drawback is the possibility of crowds during peak seasons, notably during the Peony Festival in April, which could slightly diminish the experience’s tranquility.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a thorough, hassle-free experience of some of China’s most iconic cultural landmarks. If you’re limited on time but crave depth, or prefer the comfort of private transportation and guided insights, this outing is a strong choice.

Good To Know

• All-Inclusive Convenience: Tickets, lunch, guide, and transportation are covered, making for a stress-free day.
• UNESCO Sites: Visit two of China’s most famous UNESCO-listed locations, packed with history and art.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Cynthia or Cissy, enrich the visit with engaging stories and insights.
• Flexible Itinerary: Private transport allows for a comfortable, personalized experience.
• Authentic Cultural Encounter: Watch a Kungfu show performed by Shaolin monks and learn about Buddhist philosophy.
• Timing & Crowd Considerations: Seasonal crowds, especially during festivals, can impact the visit’s tranquility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point and Transport

Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your Luoyang or Zhengzhou hotel or train station. From there, a private driver whisks you straight to Longmen Grottoes. The comfort of private transport is a big plus—no fighting for tickets or navigating public transit, just relaxing views of the countryside en route. The total duration is about 8 hours, which includes travel, exploration, meals, and a show—an efficient use of your day.

Tip: The early start is ideal for avoiding the worst crowds, though if you’re visiting during busy festivals, prepare for some bustling moments.

Longmen Grottoes: An Artistic Marvel

Arriving at Longmen Grottoes, you’ll be greeted by awe-inspiring limestone cliffs carved with over 2,300 caves and niches. The site is celebrated for its impressive collection of Buddhist sculptures and inscriptions from the Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties (around 316-907 AD). Your guide will point out highlights such as the Vairocana Buddha, the largest statue here, and share stories behind the carvings that reveal the spiritual and artistic life of ancient China.

You might choose to take a boat cruise (cost on your own), which offers a sweeping view of these monuments—an opportunity to appreciate the scale and artistry from a different perspective. It’s worth noting that the cruise isn’t available in winter, so check in advance if it’s on your wish list.

Exploring on foot via an electronic bus, you’ll visit the key caves and sculptures, gaining insight into Chinese sculpture techniques and religious symbolism. The guides’ local knowledge shines here: as one reviewer commented, Cynthia’s explanations made the history feel alive, filling the 2-hour tour with context and stories.

Lunch and Transition to Shaolin

After a couple of hours immersed in the grottoes, you’ll enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch, typically included in the package. The meal offers a chance to sample local flavors and rest before heading to Shaolin Temple. The 1.5-hour private transfer allows you time to relax and reflect on the morning’s sights, with your guide sharing more stories along the way.

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Shaolin Temple and Kungfu Show: The Martial Arts Heart

Arriving at Shaolin Temple, you’ll first explore the historic site where Chán (Zen) Buddhism and martial arts originated. The temple, built in 495 AD, has a profound spiritual and martial reputation. Your guide will narrate the history of the temple’s constructions, the legend of Indian master Batuo, and the influence of Shaolin Kungfu in Chinese culture.

Before the Kungfu show, you’ll enjoy a local lunch that offers a taste of regional cuisine. Then, it’s time for the highlight— the world-famous Shaolin Kungfu performance. Watching monks perform intricate, high-energy routines, you’ll see firsthand why Shaolin martial arts are so revered worldwide. Reviewers have praised guides like Cissy, who went “above and beyond to make us feel comfortable,” ensuring the experience is both educational and entertaining.

The guided tour of the temple grounds reveals ancient halls, pagodas, and statues, giving a sense of the spiritual ambiance. The guide’s storytelling about Buddhist philosophy and martial traditions makes the visit more meaningful.

Ending the Day

At the close of the afternoon, your private driver will take you back to your hotel or train station. The flexibility of a private tour means you can customize the timing slightly if needed, allowing you to end on a relaxed note.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Beyond the standard attractions, this tour emphasizes quality and comfort. The use of private guides, vehicles, and inclusive pricing reduces stress and makes for a smooth experience, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or traveling with family. The guides’ in-depth knowledge, highlighted by positive reviews, helps bring historical sites to life, making complex histories accessible and engaging.

The experience of watching Shaolin monks perform Kungfu is genuinely captivating—this isn’t just a show but a display of centuries-old discipline and artistry. Plus, the opportunity to see the Vairocana Buddha and other sculptures up close leaves a lasting impression of China’s artistic achievements.

Price and Value

At $142 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusion of tickets, meals, guiding, and private transport. For those who prefer a curated experience over independent travel, it simplifies logistics and offers peace of mind. The reviews reflect satisfaction with the overall value, especially highlighting the guides’ knowledge and the smooth organization.

Seasonal Considerations

If visiting during April around the Peony Festival, expect larger crowds that can detract from the peaceful experience. Conversely, outside peak periods, you’ll likely enjoy a more relaxed visit, especially with early starts avoiding the crowds.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive look at some of China’s most iconic sites without the hassle of planning each step. It’s ideal if you value guided insights, private transportation, and a well-paced schedule. Families, history enthusiasts, and culture seekers will find it particularly rewarding.

However, if you’re sensitive to crowds or prefer a more spontaneous, self-guided approach, you might want to consider visiting during off-peak times or exploring different options.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a balanced mix of cultural depth, comfort, and convenience, making it an excellent choice for those eager to see the highlights of Middle China in a single day. The combination of artistic wonders at Longmen Grottoes, spiritual insights at Shaolin Temple, and the excitement of a kungfu performance ensures a memorable, authentic experience.

The guides’ expertise and the all-inclusive setup ease what could otherwise be a complex day of sightseeing, giving you time to appreciate each site fully. While crowds may be an issue during festival seasons, careful timing can help you enjoy the serenity and grandeur these historic sites have to offer.

For anyone wanting a well-rounded, hassle-free cultural adventure with expert insights, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The $142 fee covers private transfer and vehicle, guide service, entrance tickets, a golf car in the grottoes area, a Kungfu show ticket, and a local lunch. Pickup and drop-off are also included.

Can I choose my pickup location?
Yes, you can be picked up from your Luoyang downtown hotel, Luoyang Longmen train station, or a hotel in Zhengzhou.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While generally suitable, the tour isn’t recommended for people over 95 years old. It’s best for those who can comfortably walk and handle a full day of sightseeing.

Will I need to pay extra for anything?
Additional costs may include the boat cruise at Longmen Grottoes (if you choose to take it), and dinner, which is not included in the package.

What should I bring?
Carry your passport or ID card for ticket verification. Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, especially if visiting during peak seasons.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak Chinese, English, German, French, Spanish, and Italian, catering to a global audience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for travel plans.

This private tour strikes a fine balance between structured sightseeing and personalized comfort, making it an excellent choice for those eager to explore these Chinese landmarks with insightful guidance and minimal hassle.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby