Shopping in Luoyang
Luoyang Shopping Briefing
Luoyang, one of China’s ancient capitals and the cradle of Chinese civilization, offers visitors not only majestic historical relics but also a surprisingly rich shopping experience. This historic city in Henan Province is famed for the Longmen Grottoes, White Horse Temple, and peony culture, but its vibrant retail scene deserves just as much attention. Blending ancient charm with modern convenience, Luoyang provides travelers with everything from bustling pedestrian streets and stylish malls to artisan markets where traditional crafts flourish.
Here, shopping becomes a way to connect with the city’s deep cultural roots while enjoying the perks of modern commerce. Whether you’re on the hunt for handcrafted peony-themed souvenirs, traditional Luoyang inkstones, or the latest fashion trends, the city’s diverse retail landscape offers something for everyone. In this guide, we explore the top shopping areas and must-buy items that will enrich your visit to Luoyang and help you appreciate the city from a local and cultural perspective.
In recent years, Luoyang’s economic development and increased tourism promotion have elevated its shopping infrastructure. Many new malls have been developed while traditional shopping streets have been revitalized to better serve tourists and locals alike. Whether you're strolling through a centuries-old street or browsing through a gleaming new shopping mall, you'll find the same passion for artistry, flavor, and hospitality.
Recommended Shopping Destinations
Luoyang, one of China’s ancient capitals and the cradle of Chinese civilization, offers visitors not only majestic historical relics but also a surprisingly rich shopping experience. This historic city in Henan Province is famed for the Longmen Grottoes, White Horse Temple, and peony culture, but its vibrant retail scene deserves just as much attention. Blending ancient charm with modern convenience, Luoyang provides travelers with everything from bustling pedestrian streets and stylish malls to artisan markets where traditional crafts flourish.
Here, shopping becomes a way to connect with the city’s deep cultural roots while enjoying the perks of modern commerce. Whether you’re on the hunt for handcrafted peony-themed souvenirs, traditional Luoyang inkstones, or the latest fashion trends, the city’s diverse retail landscape offers something for everyone. In this guide, we explore the top shopping areas and must-buy items that will enrich your visit to Luoyang and help you appreciate the city from a local and cultural perspective.
In recent years, Luoyang’s economic development and increased tourism promotion have elevated its shopping infrastructure. Many new malls have been developed while traditional shopping streets have been revitalized to better serve tourists and locals alike. Whether you're strolling through a centuries-old street or browsing through a gleaming new shopping mall, you'll find the same passion for artistry, flavor, and hospitality.
Recommended Shopping Destinations
Luoyang Old Town Pedestrian Street (洛阳老城步行街)
Nestled in the very heart of the Old City, this pedestrian thoroughfare isn't just a shopping street; it's the living, beating cultural and commercial heart of Luoyang. Stepping onto its flagstones is like stepping back in time, surrounded by well-preserved Qing Dynasty architecture featuring intricate wooden facades, upturned eaves, and traditional signage. The street is a sensory feast. Lining both sides are countless small shops and stalls overflowing with authentic local treasures. For example intricate paper-cuttings depicting scenes of folklore and nature, beautiful handmade crafts like bamboo weaving and clay figurines, and an absolute abundance of peony-themed souvenirs – from embroidered handkerchiefs and silk scarves to delicate porcelain and painted fans. The air is thick with the enticing aromas wafting from numerous street food vendors. Don't miss the chance to try legendary Luoyang-style soup buns (灌汤包, Guantang Bao) bursting with flavorful broth, sizzling skewers (串, Chuan), sweet and crispy peony cakes (牡丹饼, Mudan Bing), and other local specialties like Luoyang Water Banquet snacks in portable formats. The street truly comes alive during traditional festivals. Imagine it adorned with countless glowing lanterns, echoing with the sounds of folk performances like Luoyang drumming or local opera snippets, and hosting pop-up craft markets where artisans demonstrate their skills. It’s the quintessential spot to absorb the old-world charm of Luoyang while finding unique, culturally significant souvenirs. Allow ample time to wander, explore side alleys, and soak in the atmosphere.
Address: South of Zhongzhou Middle Road, Laocheng District, Luoyang.
Address: South of Zhongzhou Middle Road, Laocheng District, Luoyang.
Xinduhui Shopping Plaza (新都汇购物广场)
Location & Scale: Anchored in the bustling Jianxi District, Luoyang’s Wanda Plaza is a colossal one-stop destination for shopping, entertainment, and dining. Part of the national Wanda Group chain, it offers a reliable and comprehensive experience.The complex houses a large department store (often Wanda's own Intime or similar) covering clothing, cosmetics, homewares, and more. Fashionistas will find familiar high-street brands like H&M and Zara. Entertainment is a major draw, featuring a premium IMAX cinema for the ultimate movie experience and a sizable indoor children’s playground to keep younger family members happy. Dining options are vast, ranging from international fast-food chains and casual eateries to popular Chinese restaurant chains and establishments serving authentic local Luoyang cuisine.
True to Luoyang's heritage, Wanda Plaza often integrates local culture by hosting exhibitions related to Luoyang’s history, such as Tang Dynasty replicas, peony art displays, or calligraphy demonstrations, particularly around major holidays or festivals.
Address: 369 Zhongzhou Middle Road, Jianxi District, Luoyang
Wanda Plaza (万达广场)
Located in the busy Jianxi District, Luoyang’s Wanda Plaza is a one-stop shopping and entertainment complex. It includes a department store, IMAX cinema, indoor children’s playground, and an array of restaurants.
Here, you can find fashion brands such as H&M and Zara, and relax at cafes or indulge in local and international cuisine. The plaza often hosts exhibitions related to Luoyang’s cultural heritage.
Address: 88 Kaiyuan Avenue, Jianxi District, Luoyang
Peony Plaza (牡丹广场)
Named after Luoyang’s iconic flower, Peony Plaza is a mid-range shopping center that offers fashion boutiques, cosmetics, jewelry, and local specialty shops. The plaza decor often features peony designs, echoing the city’s floral identity.
Don’t miss the basement food court, which offers everything from hotpot and noodles to fusion snacks.
Address: 109 Jianshe Road, Xigong District, Luoyang
Intime City (东方百货/雅特米城)
Located in the downtown area, Intime City offers a good mix of international brands, local fashion outlets, and a large supermarket. It’s convenient for picking up both essentials and gifts, and its rooftop garden provides a relaxing view over the city.
Address: 20 Jianshe Road, Xigong District, Luoyang
Address: 20 Jianshe Road, Xigong District, Luoyang
Local Specialties and Souvenirs
Peony-Themed Products Luoyang is known as the "City of Peonies," and its floral culture is reflected in countless souvenirs. These include embroidered peony handkerchiefs, silk scarves, porcelain, bookmarks, and fridge magnets. During the annual Peony Festival in April, limited-edition peony products flood the markets.
Luoyang Tri-Colored Glazed Pottery (Luoyang Tang Sancai, 唐三彩)
A legacy of the Tang Dynasty, these colorful ceramic figurines are a distinctive Luoyang specialty. Common motifs include horses, maidens, and camels. Reproductions of museum artifacts are popular gifts and are sold in specialty stores near the Luoyang Museum.
Luoyang Inkstones (洛阳砚)
Carved from local stone and used in traditional Chinese calligraphy, Luoyang inkstones make elegant and meaningful gifts for those interested in art and culture. Handcrafted versions are available in the Old Town and museum shops.
Traditional Snacks and Sweets Take home bags of local specialties like Luoyang water banquet dishes (vacuum-packed), sweet rice cakes, or crispy sugar-coated haws. Vendors in the Old Town offer beautifully boxed selections perfect for gifting.
Tips for Shoppers
Bargaining While bargaining is not common in malls, it is expected in street markets and souvenir stalls. Start by offering 60–70% of the asking price. Smile and be polite—vendors appreciate respectful negotiation.
Payment Methods Most major shopping centers accept Alipay, WeChat Pay, and Chinese bank cards. Some tourist-friendly stores accept Visa and Mastercard. Carry cash when shopping in traditional markets.
Transport Luoyang’s metro Line 1 and Line 2 connect major shopping areas. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Didi are widely available and affordable.
Best Time to Shop Spring (April to May) is ideal, especially during the Peony Festival, when markets are most vibrant and seasonal products are abundant.
Shopping in Luoyang isn’t just about buying goods—it’s about discovering the soul of a city that has witnessed over a thousand years of Chinese history. From peony-themed crafts to Tang-style ceramics, the treasures you take home will carry the essence of Luoyang’s enduring legacy.
