
White Horse Temple
The ancient White Horse Temple, established in 68 AD, is revered as the birthplace of Chinese Buddhism, offering a journey through history and diverse...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

White Horse Temple
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The ancient White Horse Temple, established in 68 AD, is revered as the birthplace of Chinese Buddhism, offering a journey through history and diverse spiritual traditions.
"Considered the first Buddhist temple in China, it's a historic place and well worth a visit."

🚎 Shuttle Bus Needed
A shuttle bus may be required from the car park to the main temple entrance. Plan accordingly!
✨ Hanfu Fun
Rent Hanfu for a unique cultural experience and stunning photos!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Original White Horse Temple
Main Complex
Explore the historic heart of Chinese Buddhism, dating back to 68 AD. Discover ancient architecture and serene courtyards.

International Buddhist Temples
Adjacent Complex
Experience diverse Buddhist traditions with uniquely designed Thai, Indian, and Burmese temples.

Hanfu Photoshoot
Temple Grounds
Embrace tradition by dressing in Hanfu for a memorable photoshoot amidst ancient surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚎 Shuttle Bus Needed
A shuttle bus may be required from the car park to the main temple entrance. Plan accordingly!
✨ Hanfu Fun
Rent Hanfu for a unique cultural experience and stunning photos!
☕ Quiet Room
Find a peaceful tea room for a moment of reflection away from the main areas.
🤔 Consider the Detour
Some visitors find the newer international temples less impressive than the original.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚎 Shuttle Bus Needed
A shuttle bus may be required from the car park to the main temple entrance. Plan accordingly!
✨ Hanfu Fun
Rent Hanfu for a unique cultural experience and stunning photos!
☕ Quiet Room
Find a peaceful tea room for a moment of reflection away from the main areas.
🤔 Consider the Detour
Some visitors find the newer international temples less impressive than the original.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
White Horse Temple is revered as the first Buddhist temple in China, offering a deep historical dive into the introduction of Buddhism. Visitors appreciate the original Chinese architecture and the unique international temples. However, some find the newer constructions less impressive and the overall experience a bit rushed or tacky.
"The old Chinese Buddhist temple is nice, but the other temples (Thai, Indian, Burmese) are recent constructions and they look cheaply built, with rather bare interiors. Overall feels a bit rushed a tacky. I don't think it's worth the detour when visiting Luoyang, especially since it takes a while to reach by taxi or public bus. Personally I would recommend skipping."
Benoit Vaillancourt
"First established in 68AD, it is considered as the first Buddhist temple in China. The main buildings are reconstructed during the Ming and Qing era, 1950s, and 1973. Adjacent to this temple are three international Buddhist temples: the Siamese, Burmese and Indian Buddhist temples. The three latter temples are built from private Thai-related group’s donation, the Burmese government, and the Indian government."
T Yo
"Consist of Chinese, Thai and Hindu temple. Large temple and museum complex need to take a shuttle bus to the temple main gate from the car park."
Honor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
White Horse Temple is located about 12km from Luoyang city center. You can take public buses or taxis. Some visitors mention needing a shuttle bus from the parking lot to the main gate.
Taxis are generally available, but it's advisable to confirm availability or pre-book if you have a tight schedule, especially during peak hours.
Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can offer better lighting for photography and fewer crowds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary, but generally, the temple is open from morning until late afternoon. It's recommended to check the most current hours before your visit.
Tickets can usually be purchased on-site. However, booking in advance might be an option during peak travel seasons to save time.
Yes, there is an entrance fee. The cost is generally reasonable and covers access to the main temple complex and the international temples.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or children is not widely publicized, but it's worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Considered the first Buddhist temple in China, White Horse Temple was constructed in 68 AD during the Eastern Han Dynasty, marking the introduction of Buddhism to China.
The main attractions include the original Chinese Buddhist temple complex, as well as adjacent Thai, Indian, and Burmese Buddhist temples, offering a diverse cultural experience.
Yes, it can be a good educational visit for families interested in history and culture. However, some younger children might find the historical aspects less engaging than the visually distinct international temples.
Photography is generally allowed in most outdoor areas. However, always be respectful of worshippers and check for any specific restrictions inside certain halls or buildings.
While not always advertised, you might find local guides available for hire at the entrance, or you can explore independently using information from guidebooks or apps.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are usually some food vendors and small eateries near the temple complex, offering local snacks and simple meals. For a wider selection, it's best to dine in Luoyang city.
Expect typical Chinese street food and local snacks. If you're looking for Luoyang's famous 'water banquet,' you'll need to head back into the city.
📸 📸 Photography
The original temple architecture, the distinct styles of the international temples, and the serene courtyards offer great photographic opportunities. The golden hour light can be particularly beautiful.
Yes, many visitors enjoy wearing traditional Hanfu for photoshoots at White Horse Temple, adding a unique cultural element to their visit.
While outdoor photography is generally permitted, be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography inside prayer halls or during ceremonies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical depth might be more for adults, the sheer scale and variety of the temples can be engaging. Renting traditional Hanfu for a family photoshoot can be a fun activity that creates lasting memories. Pack snacks and water, as dining options within the temple complex are limited. Plan for a shuttle bus if needed, and be prepared for a fair amount of walking.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the 'golden hour' – early morning or late afternoon – for the most dramatic lighting. Consider incorporating elements like incense smoke, prayer flags, or even visitors in traditional Hanfu to add depth and cultural context to your images. Be mindful of respectful photography, especially inside active prayer areas.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers & Pilgrims
Many visitors find solace in the quiet corners of the temple, and some reviews mention a dedicated 'quiet room' for tea and reflection. The presence of international Buddhist temples also adds to the spiritual diversity, allowing visitors to experience different facets of Buddhist practice and art.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Birthplace of Chinese Buddhism
The original temple structures have undergone numerous reconstructions over the centuries, with much of what is seen today dating from the Ming and Qing dynasties, as well as later renovations in the 1950s and 1970s. Despite these changes, the site retains its spiritual aura and historical importance as a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists and a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of religion in China.
Adjacent to the original Chinese complex are three distinct international Buddhist temples: Siamese (Thai), Burmese, and Indian. These newer additions, funded by respective countries or related groups, offer a fascinating glimpse into the global reach of Buddhism and its diverse architectural expressions. While some visitors find these newer structures less historically authentic, they add a unique dimension to the White Horse Temple experience.
Experiencing the International Temples
These international sections offer a broader perspective on Buddhism's global presence and its adaptation across different cultures. While some reviews suggest these newer temples might feel less historically profound or 'cheaply built' compared to the ancient Chinese structures, they provide a visually diverse and culturally enriching experience. They are a testament to the enduring appeal and international connections of Buddhist traditions.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit