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Luoyang, China
Luoyang served as the capital of thirteen Chinese dynasties and was one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China. Its most spectacular legacy is the Longmen Grottoes — over 100,000 Buddhist statues and images carved into caves along the Yi River between the 5th and 8th centuries. The largest figure, the 17-meter Vairocana Buddha, is considered a masterpiece of Chinese sculpture. The White Horse Temple, founded in 68 AD, claims to be the first Buddhist temple in China. Audio narration reveals how centuries of imperial patronage and religious devotion created this extraordinary concentration of Buddhist art.
explore by interest
Allow at least 3 hours for the Longmen Grottoes. The east bank caves are less crowded and offer the best overall views of the west bank. The peony festival in April is Luoyang's most famous cultural event.
April through May (peony season) and September through November. Summer is hot and humid. The Longmen Grottoes are best in morning light. April brings the spectacular Luoyang Peony Festival.