Luoyang 6-Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes & Longtan Grand Canyon

Gather in the morning and depart for Longmen Grottoes, follow the tour guide to visit the main attractions, allowing plenty of time for photos and rest; at noon, enjoy a local specialty meal, and in the evening check into the hotel to rest and recharge for the next day’s itinerary.

Attraction Introduction: Today's itinerary includes Longmen Grottoes attractions. Longmen Grottoes was carved on the cliff walls along both sides of the Yi River in the southern part of Luoyang city. Construction continued from the time Emperor Xiaowen of the Northern Wei moved the capital to Luoyang and spanned multiple dynasties including the Eastern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Qi, Sui, and Tang. Currently, there are more than 2,300 niches, over 100,000 statues, and more than 2,800 engraved epitaphs. The most striking is the Leshan Giant Buddha in the Fengxian Temple, which is over 17 meters tall, with a plump face and compassionate eyes, said to be modeled after Empress Wu Zetian, representing the pinnacle of Tang dynasty stone carving art. Together with the Dunhuang Mogao Caves and Datong Yungang Grottoes, it is known as one of China’s three major grottoes and is also a World Cultural Heritage site. During the visit, start from the West Mountain Grottoes along the Yi River path heading south; each of the Binyang Three Caves, Wanfo Cave, and Lotus Cave has its highlights. Cross the bridge to the East Mountain Worship Terrace for a panoramic view. My suggestion is to visit the main grottoes of the West Mountain in the morning, appreciating the Buddha statue while it’s less crowded. In the afternoon, go to the East Mountain terrace to view from afar, as the light and angles are best for photos. Walking along both sides of the Yi River requires retracing your steps, so a comfortable pair of shoes will save a lot of effort.

Tips: The grottoes are mostly built on cliffs; keep a safe distance from the cliff while viewing, hold onto railings, and take care of the elderly and children. Visitors generally report that most people find the Leshan Giant Buddha the most impressive, and sunset at West Mountain offers the best photo lighting. Walking along both sides of the Yi River involves returning the same route, so comfortable shoes and at least half a day are recommended. Considering practical circumstances, dehydration is a concern on long trips, so carry a water bottle and drink small amounts frequently. On the first night in a plateau or mountainous area, avoid spending too long washing your hair or taking a bath, allowing your body some time to adjust.

Gather in the morning and set off for Longtan Grand Canyon, follow the guide to tour the key attractions, allowing plenty of time for photos and rest; enjoy a local specialty meal at noon, check into the hotel in the evening, and recharge for the next day's itinerary.

Attraction Introduction: This stop is Longtan Grand Canyon. Longtan Grand Canyon is located in Xin’an and is a canyon famous for its red rock cliffs and waterfalls that flow uphill, earning it the titles "Canyon Gem" and "Natural Museum of Ancient Oceans." Trails such as Liubutan and Yixiantian offer strong opportunities for water fun. The red cliffs and clear pools reflect each other beautifully, especially cool in summer, making it a family-friendly water destination not far from Luoyang city center. The canyon spans several kilometers, with waterfalls, deep pools, and unique stones along the way—every step presents a new scene. In my opinion, wearing non-slip creek shoes or sports shoes is best, and keep valuables like phones waterproofed; families with children should take a slower pace, choose flatter boardwalk sections, and not rush to complete the entire route.

Tips: The canyon's water-friendly sections are slippery, so be sure to wear non-slip creek shoes or sports shoes, and waterproof your valuables like phones. Visitors generally report that most think Longtan Grand Canyon is worth a special trip. It is recommended to slow down, listen to the guide's explanations, and leave time for the details that move you the most and the best photo spots. Based on the actual situation, be mindful of time: arrive five to ten minutes early for gatherings—better for people to wait for the vehicle than the vehicle to wait for you, so as not to hold everyone up.

Gather in the morning and set off for Chongdugou, follow the tour guide to visit the main attractions, allowing plenty of time for photos and rest; enjoy a local specialty lunch at noon, check in at the hotel in the evening, and recharge for the next day's itinerary.

Attraction Introduction: Today's itinerary includes Chongdugou. Chongdugou is located in Luanchuan and is known for its thousands of acres of bamboo forests, cascading waterfalls, and western Henan farming scenery. It is a rare "Jiangnan-style water town" retreat in Henan. The scenic area is divided into two sections: Jinji River and Dicui River. Jinji River is famous for its waterfalls, with splashing water that is cool and refreshing; Dicui River has continuous bamboo forests, with lush greenery all around. Here, you can stay at a farmhouse, try wild mountain vegetables, and experience the authentic rural life of western Henan. The pace is leisurely, making it especially suitable for family slow travel and summer retreats. My understanding is to slow down, don’t rush to see attractions—walking in the bamboo forest and sitting by the stream is the proper way to enjoy Chongdugou; visiting in summer is the most comfortable, so refreshing that you won’t want to leave.

Warm Tips: The canyon trail is next to water and cliffs, do not cross railings or play in dangerous areas, and keep an eye on accompanying children. Visitors generally report that most believe Chongdugou is worth a special visit. It is recommended to slow down, listen to the guide's explanations, and leave time for the details that touch you the most and the best photo spots. Considering the actual situation, when taking photos, don’t just focus on getting the shot—pay attention to your surroundings and footing. Always stand firmly on the edges of viewing platforms and walkways.

Assemble in the morning and set off for Wanxian Mountain, follow the guide to tour the main attractions, allowing ample time for photos and rest; enjoy a local specialty lunch at noon, check into the hotel in the evening, and rest up to prepare for the next day's itinerary.

Attraction Introduction: This stop is Wanxian Mountain. The Wanxian Mountain scenic area is located deep in the Taihang Mountains of Huixian, encompassing the Guoliang Hanging Road and Nanping Danfen Gorge. Red cliffs and cascading waterfalls intertwine, making it one of the most representative mountain and water galleries in the Taihang Mountains. It is famous for being a filming location for numerous movies and TV series. Attractions such as Guoliang Village, Tianchi, and the watchtowers form a stunning Taihang hiking route. The summer temperature is pleasant, making it a place to experience Taihang landscapes not far from Zhengzhou and Luoyang. In my understanding, the trails involve a lot of walking and many steps, so it is imperative to wear non-slip shoes; pay attention to passing vehicles on the hanging road sections, and the light in the early morning and evening is best for photographing the red cliffs.

Tips: Many mountain paths are slippery, especially downhill, so keep your weight back and slow your steps; you may consider bringing knee pads. Visitors generally report that the hanging road (Guoliang Tunnel) is the most spectacular and photogenic, while the mountain roads often cause motion sickness; it is advised to bring motion sickness medication and walk slowly while observing from the viewpoints. According to actual conditions, for best photos, go early or late — fewer people and soft light in the morning, golden glow at dusk are best for shooting; midday light is harsh and crowded, better reserved for rest.