Luoyang 4-Day Tour: Longtan Grand Canyon & Longmen Grottoes

Today's hydrophilic trip focuses on Liubutan and Yixiantian, experiencing the 'canyon gem' red rock landscapes; rest in the afternoon and check-in at night.

Scenic Spot Introduction: This stop takes us to Longtan Grand Canyon, located in Xin'an. It is a canyon famous for its red rock cliffs and the phenomenon of water flowing uphill, earning the titles 'Canyon Gem' and 'Natural Museum of Ancient Oceans.' Trails like Liubutan and Yixiantian offer strong water-related fun, with red rock cliffs and clear blue pools complementing each other. It is especially refreshing in summer and is a short distance from Luoyang city, making it a family-friendly hydrophilic destination. The canyon stretches for several kilometers, with waterfalls, deep pools, and peculiar rocks along the way, offering a new view at every step. In my opinion, wearing anti-slip creek shoes or sports shoes is most suitable, and valuables like mobile phones should be kept waterproof; families with children should slow down, choose gentle boardwalk sections, and avoid rushing to complete the entire route.

Friendly Tips: Signal inside the canyon may be poor, so agree on a meeting point with the guide in advance and avoid moving alone. Visitors generally report that most of them believe Longtan Grand Canyon is worth a special trip. It is recommended to slow down, follow the guide for explanations, and leave time for the details that touch you the most and the best photo spots. Based on actual circumstances, keep ID and wallet separate, take photos of important documents for backup on your phone, so that if lost, they can be quickly replaced without delaying your trip.

In the morning, head to Longmen Grottoes, walk along the Yi River trail from the Western Hills Grottoes to closely admire the Vairocana Buddha at Fengxian Temple, then cross the bridge to the East Hills Buddhist Terrace for a panoramic view; at noon, enjoy Luoyang water banquet, in the afternoon visit Xiangshan Temple and Bai Garden, and return to the hotel 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 sides of the Yi River in the south of Luoyang city and has been continuously developed since Emperor Xiaowen of the Northern Wei moved the capital to Luoyang. It was constructed through several dynasties including Eastern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Qi, Sui, and Tang. Currently, there are more than 2,300 cave shrines, over 100,000 statues, and more than 2,800 inscribed steles. The most stunning is the Vairocana Buddha at Fengxian Temple, over 17 meters tall, with a full face and compassionate eyes, said to be carved in the image of 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. During the visit, walk south along the Yi River trail from the Western Hills Grottoes, where Binyang Three Caves, Wanfo Cave, and Lotus Cave each have their highlights. Crossing the bridge to the East Hills Buddhist Terrace offers a panoramic view. My understanding is to first visit the main cave in the Western Hills in the morning, taking advantage of fewer crowds to enjoy the Buddha in detail, and then go to the East Hills terrace in the afternoon for a long-distance view, as 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: 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 both banks of the Yi River. Most visitors report that the Vairocana Buddha is the most impressive; the lighting at the Western Hills at sunset is ideal for photos. Since walking along both banks of the Yi River involves retracing your steps, wear comfortable shoes and reserve half a day. Depending on the situation, carry some small change and snacks, as park signal is weak or for temporary refreshment, so don’t wait until you’re hungry to look for food.

Set off from the hotel early in the morning straight to Taihang Grand Canyon. First, listen to the guide explain the background and highlights, then enjoy a leisurely walk and take additional photos of spots that interest you. After lunch, take a short rest and return to the hotel in the evening to replenish your energy for the next day.

Attraction Introduction: A major highlight of the itinerary is Taihang Grand Canyon. Taihang Grand Canyon stretches across the junction of Shanxi, Hebei, and Henan provinces, with Red Flag Canal cutting through the mountains. Peach Blossom Valley, Wang Xiang Cliff, and Taihang Sky Road link ruggedness with beauty, showcasing the scenery of the Taihang Mountains. Peach Blossom Valley is famous for its waterfalls and streams, Wang Xiang Cliff is renowned for its cliffside walkways, and Taihang Sky Road allows visitors to see the entire canyon by sightseeing bus. In spring, the mountains are filled with blooming flowers; in autumn, the forests are dyed in layers of color. Each season has its highlights. My understanding is that the scenic area is large and the attractions are spread out, so it is essential to plan the route well and prioritize the core spots. Hold onto railings in steep sections of the walkway, and friends with a fear of heights should act according to their ability.

Tips: The canyon trails run close to water and cliffs, so do not climb over railings or play in dangerous areas, and keep an eye on children. Visitors generally comment that Peach Blossom Valley's water scenery is serene and Taihang Sky Road is steep and dramatic, with scenic views at every step. Be reminded to take the sightseeing bus, as the weather can greatly affect the experience. Considering actual conditions, mountain weather can change quickly, so a windproof jacket is more practical than anything else. Choose shoes that are slip-resistant and comfortable; taking a few fewer photos is better than twisting an ankle.

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.