Luoyang 3-Day Selected Route: Longmen Grottoes & Jiguan Cave

Today's tour of Longmen Grottoes is recommended to allow half a day: connect the main cave of the West Mountain, the viewing platform of the East Mountain, and the Baiyuan of Xiangshan Temple in one line, and follow the guide to understand the stories of the Northern Wei and the peak Tang behind the stone carvings; return in the evening to rest.

Attraction Introduction: A highlight 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, continuously constructed since Emperor Xiaowen of Northern Wei moved the capital to Luoyang, and continued through the Eastern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Qi, Sui, and Tang dynasties. There are currently more than 2,300 caves and niches, over 100,000 statues, and more than 2,800 inscriptions and steles. The most stunning is the Vairocana Buddha in the Fenshansi Temple, over seventeen meters high, with a full face and compassionate eyes, said to have been carved in the likeness of Wu Zetian, representing the pinnacle of stone carving art in the peak Tang period. Alongside Dunhuang Mogao Caves and Datong Yungang, it is known as one of China's three major grottoes and is also a world cultural heritage site. When visiting, start from the West Mountain Grottoes along the Yi River trail heading south. Binyang Three Caves, Wanfo Cave, and Lotus Cave each have their own points of interest. Cross the bridge to the East Mountain Worship Platform for a panoramic view. My understanding is that in the morning, first see the main cave of the West Mountain and take advantage of fewer people to appreciate the Great Buddha, and in the afternoon go to the East Mountain viewing platform for a distant view, which offers the best light and angles for photos. Walking along both sides of the Yi River requires retracing your steps, so a comfortable pair of shoes can save a lot of effort.

Tips: The grotto scenic area has strong UV rays; on sunny days, bring a sun hat and sunscreen. The visiting route is relatively long, so remember to replenish water. Visitors generally feedback that most people find the Vairocana Buddha the most impressive, the light is best for photos at sunset in the West Mountain; walking along both sides of the Yi River requires retracing your steps, so comfortable shoes are recommended, and allow half a day. Depending on your actual situation, pace yourself; tackle the highlights in the morning when your energy is high and slow down in the afternoon. Don’t exhaust yourself on the first day, or you won’t have energy for the coming days.

Morning: Visit the karst cave to see stalactites of all shapes and forms; have lunch nearby at noon, and in the afternoon you can visit the area nearby, with each cave and gorge complementing each other, returning in the evening.

Attraction Introduction: Today's itinerary includes one attraction, which is the karst cave in Luanchuan. Inside the cave, stalactites of various shapes and forms, stalagmites, stone pillars, and stone flowers transform into gorgeous colors under the lighting. The cave maintains a constant pleasant temperature throughout the year, warm in winter and cool in summer. Attractions inside the cave are densely packed, with views changing at every step. With the guide's explanation, you can understand the wondrous craftsmanship of geological changes over billions of years. The cave and the nearby gorge complement each other and form a classic geology sightseeing route in western Henan. My understanding is, when visiting the cave, follow the guide, as the formation and names of the stalactites are very interesting, and you might miss the highlights on your own. The cave floor is slippery, and some areas are low, so wear non-slip shoes and watch your head.

Friendly Tips: Many mountain roads are slippery, especially when going downhill, pay attention to shifting your center of gravity back and slow down, and you can bring knee pads. Visitors generally feel that most believe the karst cave is worth making a special trip for. It is recommended to slow down, follow the guide, and leave time for the details that move you most and for the best photo spots. According to actual situations, respect local customs; dress appropriately when entering religious sites, do not point randomly, and a simple greeting can bring 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.