08 Apr 2019
Took the 730am high speed train from Xi’an to Luoyang and was met by Jerry, our local guide. Speaks good English and very friendly. Together with the local driver, they gave us an unforgettable day in Luoyang!
First stop, the Grottoes! It’s unbelievable. Got to see it for yourself and you would be left wondering how it was done thousands of years ago. As we went on a public holiday (5th April), the queue and number of people were unbelievably long! Long walks and some steep climbing required. Please be prepared for this. It was also very, very hot so stay hydrated. Toilets are easily available and relatively clean. We took a boat ride back (not included in the tour, RMB25 per pax) and had a wonderful last look at the Grottoes.
Went for lunch at a local restaurant (at our request) and Jerry ensured that we sampled some very nice local dishes!
After lunch, we went to see Peonies which my wife loved it. It was also the first day of the peony season and we were lucky to be there. Lots of Sakura/ Cherry Blossom trees as well. But it was too hot and this took some fun out of the visit.
Tour ended around 4pm so if you are going back to Xi’an, you can take any train after 5pm.