Luoyang Baoduzhai

Introducing Luoyang Baoduzhai

The Baoduzhai Red Tourism Area is located in Sanchuan Town, 50 kilometers northwest of Luanchuan County, at an altitude of 1,803 meters. It borders Shiyaogou in Sanchuan Township to the east, Wenyu Township in Lushi County to the west, the Huoshen Temple in Qingshan Village to the south, and Zhangqiangou to the north. Baoduzhai, situated on a mountaintop, is surrounded by cliffs hundreds of feet high. The south gate is a cliff with thousands of ridges; the west gate is a narrow valley just over a meter wide, with two peaks facing each other. To the right of the east gate lies the "Broken Mountain Moat," a formidable fortress where "one man can hold the fort against ten thousand." The mountain boasts an inexhaustible spring both winter and summer, and dense forests provide shade from the sun, making it an easy-to-defend and difficult-to-attack location, earning it the reputation of being China's premier ancient fortress.

Baoduzhai mainly displays the ancient village culture and folk culture of western Henan, with tourism and film and television shooting as the main focus. The village is dotted with blockhouses and forts, various merchants and shops, the execution ground and prison cells are bloody, the embroidery buildings and houses are simple and elegant, the village gate and city walls are solid and steep, the village girls and villagers come in an endless stream, and the casinos and taverns are bustling with people.

Climate and best time to travel

temperate monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Fire Temple

It is the site of the attack headquarters and a patriotic education base in the old revolutionary base area. It comprises the Baoduzhai Liberation Monument, the Support Headquarters, the Attack Headquarters, a field hospital, and an ammunition depot. Inside the headquarters, well-preserved firearms used by the PLA and combat documents are still visible, vividly depicting the PLA's fierce preparations for the capture of the village.

Wangniuling

This pristine ecological forest area, located at an altitude of 1,769 meters, is evergreen year-round and home to rare birds and animals. In spring and summer, the area is shrouded in mist, creating a dreamlike experience. It is an ideal destination for escaping the summer heat, maintaining health, watching the sunrise, and photographing the sea of ​​clouds.

It is recommended to spend half a day

Tickets

60 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

08:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Luoyang Baoduzhai

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Luoyang Baoduzhai is a historic mountain area near Luoyang, known for its ancient temples, stone carvings, and scenic peaks. It has cultural and religious significance, reflecting traditional Chinese architecture and Buddhist heritage, while offering natural beauty and hiking opportunities.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

• Location: Luoyang, Henan Province, China.
• By bus: Local buses from Luoyang city center reach the base of Baoduzhai.
• By taxi or ride-hailing: Direct access to the entrance of the scenic area.
• Walking: Suitable only for short nearby trails; the main hike requires proper trekking paths.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Opening hours: Typically 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Best times: Spring and autumn for comfortable weather and colorful scenery.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fee is around 50–80 RMB depending on the season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through local travel platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is optional but recommended during peak seasons or holidays; 1–3 days ahead is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 hours to explore the main trails, peaks, and temples; more time if hiking all routes or taking photographs.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Main summit for panoramic views.
• Historic temples and pavilions along the trails.
• Stone carvings and inscriptions.
• Scenic viewpoints overlooking Luoyang city.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are mainly in Chinese; English tours or materials are limited. Audio guides are uncommon.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Summit of Baoduzhai for city and mountain panoramas.
• Along scenic trails with temples and rock formations.
• Sunrise or sunset points for dramatic lighting.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the base entrance → follow the main trail to mid-level temples → continue to the summit → explore side trails for pavilions and carvings → return via the scenic descent route.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not permitted. Special cultural or seasonal tours may be organized occasionally.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

• Least crowded: Weekdays outside public holidays.
• Most crowded: Weekends and national holidays, especially during spring and autumn.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Public restrooms at main entrance and mid-trail points.
• Rest areas and benches along hiking trails.
• Small food stalls or restaurants near the base entrance.
• Shops selling souvenirs and local snacks at the entrance.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Partially accessible: Main trails can be steep, limiting access for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can manage shorter sections with supervision.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are accepted for entrance fees and shops; cash may be needed for small vendors along trails.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Restaurants at the base entrance offering local Henan cuisine.
• Small cafes or snack shops near the entrance area.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available; vegan and halal options are limited and may require checking specific vendors.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotels and guesthouses in Luoyang city, within 10–15 km of the mountain.
• Budget and mid-range options for day-trip visitors.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Longmen Grottoes for Buddhist stone carvings.
• Luoyang Old Town for cultural exploration.
• White Horse Temple for historical and religious significance.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Souvenir shops at the base sell postcards, local handicrafts, and Baoduzhai-themed items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or ride-hailing to Luoyang city center or nearby attractions.
• Local buses connecting to other scenic spots in Luoyang.
• Private car or tour services for visiting Longmen Grottoes or other day-trip locations.