Jiaozuo 3-Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes & Chongdu Valley

Arrive early in the morning, take advantage of fewer crowds to first visit Binyang Three Caves and Lotus Cave, then climb to Fengxian Temple to admire the Great Buddha; have lunch nearby around noon, in the afternoon visit Dongshan Grottoes and Xiangshan Temple, and at sunset take photos along the Yi River, ending a fulfilling day.

Attraction Introduction: One of the highlights arranged in the itinerary is Longmen Grottoes. Longmen Grottoes was carved on the cliffs along both banks of the Yi River south of Luoyang city. Construction continued from the time of Emperor Xiaowen of the Northern Wei after moving the capital to Luoyang, spanning multiple dynasties including the Eastern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Qi, Sui, and Tang. Currently, over 2,300 cave niches, more than 100,000 statues, and over 2,800 engraved inscriptions remain. The most stunning is the Leshan Giant Buddha at Fengxian Temple, which is over 17 meters tall, has a plump face and kind eyes, and is said to have been carved based on the appearance of Wu Zetian, representing the pinnacle of Tang dynasty stone carving art. Along with the Dunhuang Mogao Caves and Datong Yungang Grottoes, it is considered one of China’s three major grottoes and is also a World Cultural Heritage site. When visiting, walk south along the Yi River trail from the West Mountain Grottoes, with Binyang Three Caves, Ten Thousand Buddhas Cave, and Lotus Cave each offering unique highlights. Cross the bridge to the East Mountain Worship Platform for a panoramic view. My understanding is that in the morning, it’s best to see the main caves in the West Mountain and take the time to appreciate the Great Buddha while crowds are smaller, and in the afternoon go to the East Mountain platform for distant views; the lighting and angles are best for photos. Walking along both banks of the Yi River requires retracing your steps, so a pair of comfortable shoes can save a lot of energy.

Tips: The grottoes area has strong UV rays; on sunny days, bring a sun hat and sunscreen. The visit route is relatively long, so remember to stay hydrated. Most tourists feedback that the Leshan Giant Buddha is the most impressive, the West Mountain at sunset offers the best lighting for photos; walking along both banks of the Yi River requires returning the same way, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and reserve half a day. Adjust your physical strength accordingly: tackle the major highlights in the morning when you're energetic, slow down in the afternoon, and avoid exhausting yourself on the first day so the following days won’t be tiring.

Today's summer retreat trip has a relaxed pace, focusing on the vast bamboo forests and cascading waterfalls; the afternoon is free for your own plans, and you will stay at a farmhouse in the evening to rest.

Attraction introduction: This stop is at Chongdugou, located in Luanchuan, famous for its vast bamboo forests, waterfalls, and the farming culture of Western Henan. It is one of the few 'Jiangnan water town'-style summer leisure destinations in the area. The scenic area is divided into the Jinji River and Dicui River sections. Jinji River is known for its waterfalls, with splashing water and a refreshing atmosphere, while Dicui River is covered with continuous bamboo groves, where strolling reveals endless greenery. Here you can stay at farmhouses, taste wild vegetables, and experience authentic life in Western Henan mountain villages. The pace is relaxed, making it especially suitable for family slow travel and summer vacations. My understanding is to slow down and not rush through the sights—walking in the bamboo forest and sitting by the stream is the proper way to enjoy Chongdugou; visiting in summer is most comfortable, with refreshing coolness that makes you reluctant to leave.

Tips: Signal may be poor in the canyon, so arrange a meeting point with your guide in advance and do not go alone. Most visitors generally feel that Chongdugou is worth a special trip. It is recommended to slow down, follow the guide’s explanations, and leave time for the details that move you most and the best photo spots. In practice, respect local customs, dress appropriately when entering religious sites, and refrain from pointing at things casually. A simple greeting can earn you goodwill.

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.