Kaifeng 4-Day Tour: Longmen Grottoes & Chongdu Valley

Today's visit is to Longmen Grottoes, and it is recommended to allow at least half a day: connecting the main caves of West Mountain, the viewing platform of East Mountain, and Xiangshan Temple Baiyuan in a line. Follow the guide to understand the stories of the Northern Wei and flourishing Tang behind the stone carvings; return and rest in the evening.

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. It has been continuously constructed since Emperor Xiaowen of Northern Wei moved the capital to Luoyang, spanning the Eastern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Qi, Sui, and Tang dynasties. Currently, over 2,300 caves exist, with more than 100,000 statues and over 2,800 inscriptions carved on steles. The most stunning is the Vairocana Buddha of Fengxian Temple, with a total height of over 17 meters, a full-faced appearance, and kind eyes, said to be carved in the likeness of Empress Wu Zetian, representing the peak of flourishing Tang stone carving art. Along 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, walk south along the Yi River trail from the West Mountain Grottoes; Bin Yang's Three Caves, the Ten Thousand Buddha Cave, and the Lotus Cave each have points of interest. Cross the bridge to the East Mountain worship platform for a panoramic view. My understanding is to first see the main caves of West Mountain in the morning, enjoying the Buddha while fewer people are around, then go to the East Mountain viewing platform in the afternoon to overlook the scenery—the lighting and angles are best for photos; the banks of the Yi River require retracing steps, so a comfortable pair of shoes can save a lot of effort.

Tips: Visiting the grottoes mainly involves walking and stairs, so it is recommended to wear non-slip comfortable shoes and travel light. Pay attention to your footing along the banks of the Yi River. Visitors generally feedback that most find the Vairocana Buddha the most stunning, and the lighting is most photogenic during sunset at West Mountain; walking along the Yi River banks involves retracing steps, so comfortable shoes and reserving half a day are advised. Depending on the situation, if you want authentic local food, go deeper into the alleys; the queues at the main entrance tend to be long and the taste generally average. For specialty products, ask for prices first and compare; local supermarkets often provide more authentic goods.

Morning tour, along Jinji River and Dicui River to see bamboo forests and waterfalls; at noon, taste wild vegetables and farmhouse meals; in the afternoon, stroll through villages in western Henan, enjoying the coolness of a Jiangnan-style water town.

Attraction introduction: This stop is at Chongdugou, Chongdugou is located in Luanchuan, and is known for its tens of thousands of acres of bamboo forests, cascading waterfalls, and the farming culture of western Henan. It is one of the few 'Jiangnan water town' style summer resorts in Henan. The scenic area is divided into two areas: Jinji River and Dicui River. Jinji River is famous for its waterfalls, with splashing water and a refreshing atmosphere; Dicui River has continuous bamboo forests, offering an expanse of greenery when strolling through. Here, visitors can stay in farmhouse accommodations, taste wild vegetables, and experience authentic life in western Henan mountain villages. The pace is relaxed, making it especially suitable for family leisure and summer vacation. My understanding is to slow down and not rush through the sights—walking in the bamboo forest and sitting by the creek is the proper way to enjoy Chongdugou; visiting in summer is the most comfortable, so cool that you won’t want to leave.

Tips: The canyon trails are near water and cliffs. Do not climb over railings or play in dangerous areas, and watch children closely. Visitors generally report that most believe Chongdugou is worth a special trip. It is recommended to slow down, listen to the guide’s explanation, and leave time for the details that touch you most and the best photo spots. Based on actual conditions, pace yourself physically: tackle the main attractions in the morning when you have energy, and slow down in the afternoon. Don’t exhaust yourself on the first day, or you will have no energy for the following days.

Depart early from the hotel and head straight to Wanxian Mountain. First, listen to the tour guide explain the background and highlights, then explore freely at your own pace and retake photos according to your interests. After lunch, take a short rest and return to the hotel in the evening to recharge for the next day.

Attraction Introduction: A major highlight of the itinerary is Wanxian Mountain. The Wanxian Mountain scenic area is located deep in the Taihang Mountains in Huixian, encompassing Guoliang Hanging Highway and Nanping Danfeng Gorge. The red cliffs and cascading waterfalls form a picturesque landscape, making it one of the most representative scenic galleries of the Taihang Mountains. This area is famous as a filming location for multiple movies and TV shows. Attractions such as Guoliang Village, Tianchi, and the watchtowers create an impressive Taihang hiking route. The summer temperatures are pleasant, and it is a place near Zhengzhou and Luoyang where one can experience the Taihang Mountains up close. In my understanding, the hike involves a lot of steps; it is essential to wear non-slip shoes. Pay attention to passing vehicles on the hanging highway section, and the morning and evening light is best for photographing the red cliffs.

Tips: There are many slippery sections on the mountain paths; when descending, especially, shift your weight backward and slow down your pace. You can prepare a pair of knee pads. Tourists generally report that the hanging highway (Guoliang Tunnel) is the most spectacular for photos, but mountain roads can cause car sickness. Remember to bring motion sickness medicine and walk slowly while enjoying the views from the observation decks. Respect local customs, dress appropriately when entering religious sites, and avoid pointing around casually; a simple greeting can earn goodwill.

Transfer to the departure terminal per your booked train or flight; keep travel documents and tickets in your carry-on.