Introducing China Peony Garden
Located across from the White Horse Temple in Luoyang, the birthplace of Buddha in China, the Shenzhou Peony Garden covers 600 mu (approximately 1,000 acres) and features Tang Dynasty architectural style and landscaped gardens. The garden boasts a collection of over 400,000 peony plants, representing 1,021 varieties of renowned domestic and international peony species. Every April, the garden celebrates the peony season.
The garden houses rare peony stones that were formed naturally over millions of years, as well as the living fossil of Chinese peonies—the 300-year-old Peony King. It also boasts the world's longest 100-meter-long corridor showcasing peony murals from the Tang Dynasty, and the Guoyun Pavilion houses the world's largest white marble statue of Ouyang Xiu.
The park is divided into five major scenic areas: the Peony Culture Area, with its architectural style of the prosperous Tang Dynasty, systematically displays the glorious millennium-long development of peonies and the historical origins of "Luoyang peonies are the best in the world"; the Peony Leisure Area, a classical landscape garden, echoes the performances of a large number of actors and staff in Tang costumes; and the Peony Comprehensive Commercial Area allows you to easily purchase a variety of peony bonsai and unique peony handicrafts in addition to enjoying the flowers, bringing wealth and good fortune to your family and friends.
Climate and best time to travel
temperate monsoon climate;
Although the peony garden has flowers blooming all year round, it is best to visit in April.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
It is recommended to visit for 1 to 2 hours
Tickets
50 yuan/person
Attraction opening hours
7:00-19:00
Most Popular FAQs for Shenzhou Peony Garden
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
Shenzhou Peony Garden is a key cultural and botanical site in Luoyang, famous for cultivating and displaying peonies, which are China’s national flower. The garden celebrates Luoyang’s long-standing tradition of peony appreciation dating back over a thousand years, highlighting its cultural and horticultural significance.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- Location: Luoyang, Henan Province, China.
- By bus: Local buses connect to the garden; check routes 1, 7, or 9 depending on your location.
- By taxi or ride-hailing: Direct drop-off at the main entrance.
- Walking: Accessible if staying nearby, but most visitors use public transport or taxis.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Opening hours: Typically 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Best times: Late April to early May during peony blooming season.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
Entrance fee: Around 60–80 RMB during peak blooming season. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via official online platforms.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
During peak season, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended to secure entry and avoid long lines.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
Approximately 2–4 hours, depending on whether you participate in festival activities or visit all garden areas.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Peony exhibition areas with rare and colorful varieties.
- Themed pavilions showcasing traditional Chinese garden architecture.
- Cultural displays detailing Luoyang’s peony history.
- Scenic spots with ponds, bridges, and flower arrangements.
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
Guided tours are available in Chinese; English or other language tours may need to be arranged in advance. Audio guides are generally limited.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Main flower exhibition areas during peak bloom.
- Traditional pavilions and bridges over ponds.
- Entrance plaza with floral arrangements.
- Festival event stages during spring celebrations.
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Start at the entrance → visit main peony exhibition zones → explore pavilions and cultural displays → walk along scenic paths and bridges → finish at café or rest area for refreshments.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
Night visits may be offered during special festivals with lighting displays, but standard operation hours are daylight only. Check seasonal schedules.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Peak season (April–May) is crowded, especially weekends and holidays.
- Weekdays or early morning visits offer fewer crowds.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- Restrooms are located throughout the garden.
- Food stalls and cafés serve snacks and beverages.
- Souvenir shops offer peony-themed items.
- Benches and shaded rest areas available along walking paths.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
Mostly accessible; paved paths accommodate children and elderly. Some areas may be uneven, limiting wheelchair access slightly.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
Both cash and mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted; card payments available at major ticket counters and shops.
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Cafés and snack stalls within the garden.
- Restaurants near the entrance serving local Henan cuisine.
- Seasonal festival food vendors during spring bloom.
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Vegetarian options are available; vegan and halal options are limited, so check in advance or ask staff for guidance.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Several hotels in Luoyang city within 10–15 minutes drive.
- Options range from budget guesthouses to mid-range hotels.
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Luoyang Old Town and historic streets.
- Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- White Horse Temple, an important Buddhist site.
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Souvenir shops sell peony-themed crafts, postcards, paintings, and local handicrafts.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxi or ride-hailing for other nearby attractions.
- City buses connecting to Luoyang central area or tourist spots.
- Walking to nearby streets or cultural sites if close.
