Luoyang is famous for its peonies (the currently unofficial Chinese national flower), which are found all over the city. While these flowers are not yet recognised as the national flower, they are the official symbol of Luoyang. For those after handicrafts, the Tang Dynasty three-colour glazed pottery copies are a good buy. For tea connoisseurs, a taste of the pure and crisp Xinyang tea should not be missed, made from leaves of some of China's most unsullied land.

 

The Guangzhou Market, located in the busiest section of the city, is one of the largest department stores in the province. It is a good place to get virtually anything if you are planning to go further to the more deserted west. The Arts and Craft Store on Zhongzhou Lu sells imitation palace lanterns and replicas of Shang bronzes. Upstairs, you can also purchase some of the aforementioned glazed pottery horses and camels. Another similar venue is the Antique Store in the Old Town God's Temple (Chenghuang Miao).