From the Chengzhou city to today’s district
Luoyi Ancient City stands at the junction of Jiudu Road and Liulin Street in Luoyang’s old town. Its total area is about two square kilometres, while the first phase now open covers about 70 mu. Its historical narrative begins with the Western Zhou city of Chengzhou, but the buildings seen today are mainly a recent cultural-tourism reconstruction, opened in 2017. It centres on Wenfeng Pagoda and includes the Henanfu Confucian Temple, Tuoling Palace, the Four-Eyes Well and remains of the Jin-Yuan city wall; in 2022 it was named among the first national-level tourism and leisure districts.
Separating the historical narrative from the standing fabric makes the place easier to read: Wenfeng Pagoda and the city-wall remains are historic, while the streets, shops and most of the antique-style buildings are later construction. Entry is free and the lights come on at 18:30; the evening lighting, water and performances are the main draw.
Hanfu, crafts and the evening
The area around Luoyi Ancient City has one of the densest concentrations of hanfu shops in Luoyang. A 2025 Xinhua report said that within one square kilometre of the district, hanfu businesses grew from 18 to nearly 1,000 between 2023 and the time of writing, covering rental, styling and photography. The district also has craft displays, handmade goods and snacks, and rewards a slow walk.
The best evening window is the hour after the lights come on, when the pagoda, arched bridge and water are all lit and the crowds are at their densest. For empty photographs, come by day; for atmosphere, accept the crowd. Several hanfu rental shops operate inside the district, with widely varying prices and styling standards; ask what a package includes before committing.
Practical visiting
Entry is free; some performances or experiences may charge separately. The district is close to Lijingmen and Cross Street and can be combined in one evening: walk West Street first, then continue to Luoyi for the lights. This is a commercial cultural-tourism area, and prices for food and hanfu vary widely; ask what a package includes before paying.
If reconstructed commercial streets do not appeal, spend the time at Longmen, White Horse Temple or the Ancient Tombs Museum instead. For an evening out, hanfu photographs or a family walk, Luoyi is easier. Weekends and holidays are busy; keep an eye on your belongings.
Useful official references
Check the relevant official service before making arrangements. These links are references, not a guarantee of current services.
