Anyang 3-Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes & Henan Only Show

In the morning, head to Longmen Grottoes, carefully view the Leshan Giant Buddha at Fengxian Temple along the Yihe River trail from the West Mountain Grottoes, then cross the bridge to the East Mountain Worship Platform for a panoramic view; at noon, enjoy Luoyang water cuisine, and in the afternoon, visit Xiangshan Temple and Baiyuan, returning to the hotel in the evening.

Attraction Introduction: A highlight of the itinerary is Longmen Grottoes. Longmen Grottoes was carved into the cliffs on both sides of the Yihe River south of Luoyang city, and construction continued since Emperor Xiaowen of the Northern Wei moved the capital to Luoyang, spanning 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 inscriptions and epitaphs. The most stunning is the Leshan Giant Buddha at Fengxian Temple, over 17 meters tall, with a full face and kind eyes, reportedly 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 considered one of China’s three major grottoes and a World Cultural Heritage site. When visiting, follow the Yihe River trail south from the West Mountain Grottoes, where Binyang Three Caves, Wanfo Cave, and Lotus Cave each have points of interest. Crossing the bridge to the East Mountain Worship Platform allows for a panoramic view. My understanding is to first visit the main grottoes in the West Mountain in the morning and admire the Giant Buddha when it is less crowded; in the afternoon, head to the East Mountain Platform for distant views, where the light and angles are best for photos. Walking along both sides of the Yihe River requires retracing steps, so a comfortable pair of shoes can save a lot of effort.

Tips: The grotto area has strong UV exposure, so bring a sun hat and sunscreen on sunny days. The visiting route is long, so remember to stay hydrated. Visitors generally report that most feel the Leshan Giant Buddha is the most impressive, and the light at sunset in West Mountain is best for photos. Walking along both sides of the Yihe River requires retracing steps, so wearing comfortable shoes and reserving half a day is recommended. For authentic food, head deeper into the alleys, as waiting at the main entrance lines is long and the taste is ordinary. For local specialties, always ask for the price first and compare; local supermarkets are often more authentic.

Early in the morning, enter the Theater Fantasy City, first watch the main theater performances, then hop around the smaller theaters; in the afternoon, freely choose the shows to immerse yourself in Central Plains civilization, and return in the evening.

Attraction Introduction: One of the highlights arranged in the itinerary is Theater Fantasy City. 'Theater Fantasy City' is located in Zhongmu and is a massive theatrical settlement built with rammed earth. Through more than twenty theaters and nearly a hundred performances, it presents the hardships, harvests, and resilience of Central Plains civilization. Main theater shows like 'Fantasy City,' 'Train Station,' and 'Li Family Village' have excellent reputations, while the smaller theaters each have unique creativity, with the imagery of wheat fields running throughout. It is a phenomenally popular cultural tourism landmark. This is not a traditional attraction but an immersive cultural experience. My understanding is that it is essential to reserve a whole day, schedule the main theater performance first, and then fit in the smaller theaters; book tickets in advance through official channels and check the show timetable, as popular performances are often fully booked.

Tips: Signal may be poor inside the canyon, so arrange meeting points with the guide in advance and do not go alone. Visitors generally feedback that the immersive Theater Fantasy City experience is popular among young people, but tickets are expensive and it is time-consuming; it is recommended to choose the core theaters and reserve at least half a day. Depending on the actual situation, plan your energy levels, tackling the main shows in the morning while spirits are high and slowing down in the afternoon, so as not to exhaust yourself on the first day, leaving no energy for the following days.

Transfer to the station/airport per your departure, ending a pleasant journey.

Friendly tips: Pack the night before and keep ID, power bank and souvenirs together; allow extra time for the station/airport; bring your ID and stay with your guide, noting the meeting time and place. Traveler feedback — Return-day travelers remind: pack ID and souvenirs the night before; allow extra time. Practical note — Return-day tip: pack ID, power bank and souvenirs the night before; allow extra time—mountain roads are unpredictable.