Back from Luoyang - A Word of Caution to Those Planning to Visit

"To understand the rise and fall of dynasties, just look at Luoyang." This ancient capital of thirteen dynasties carries thousands of years of Chinese history and glory, like a thick history book with every page filled with legends. This April, as spring deepens🌼 and flowers bloom in abundance, it's the perfect time to embark on a 48-hour adventure in Luoyang. 📍Day 1: Wandering Through Ancient Ruins, Savoring Historical Changes 1️⃣ Longmen Grottoes Stepping into the Longmen Grottoes feels like entering an awe-inspiring palace of stone-carved art. In April's Luoyang, the sun is warm and gentle, with the Yi River sparkling below. The grottoes, built into the mountains on both banks, house solemn Buddha statues. Walking along the path, you'll encounter the benevolent face of the Vairocana Buddha, who has watched over all beings for centuries, maintaining its charm through millennia of wind and rain. Examine each Buddha statue and relief carefully, feel the supernatural craftsmanship of ancient artisans, as if hearing history's echo and touching the traces of time. 📸Photo Tips: Stand on the opposite bank of the Yi River, using the panoramic view of the grottoes and flowing river as your backdrop. Wear traditional costume, hold a Luoyang peony (artificial ones work too), turn gracefully, and capture this moment full of ancient charm😃. Or get close to the Buddha statues, use the exquisite reliefs as background, tilt your head slightly, show a devout expression, and take photos rich in historical significance that showcase the ancient capital's allure. 2️⃣ Luoyang Museum Next to the Longmen Grottoes, the Luoyang Museum stands as a treasury of culture. The museum houses diverse collections, from Xia and Shang Dynasty bronzeware to Tang Dynasty tri-colored pottery, each piece telling the story of Luoyang's glorious past. Here, you can explore various exhibition halls, have intimate encounters with ancient artifacts, and understand Luoyang's crucial role in Chinese civilization's development. 3️⃣ Lijing Gate (Evening) Visit Lijing Gate at dusk. The setting sun drapes this ancient city gate in golden light, making it look majestic and impressive. Climb up Lijing Gate for a bird's-eye view of Luoyang's old streets, where stone-paved paths wind through bustling shops and crowds. Step through the gate and try the local specialty "Bufan Tang" soup - its sour and spicy flavors will chase away the day's fatigue with authentic Luoyang taste😋. 📍Day 2: Roaming Through Flower Fields, Enjoying Spring's Vitality 1️⃣ Sui-Tang Luoyang City National Heritage Park (Yingtian Gate, Mingtang & Tiantang) Head to the Sui-Tang Luoyang City National Heritage Park early morning. In April, spring breezes sweep through blooming flowers in the park. The majestic Yingtian Gate recreates the grandeur of the Tang Dynasty. Enter Mingtang & Tiantang's lavishly decorated interior, where you can imagine Empress Wu Zetian holding court and feasting with her officials. From the heights, take in the panoramic view of the city, experiencing the fusion of history and modernity. 📸Photo Tips: In front of Yingtian Gate's square, use the magnificent gate as backdrop, wear Tang Dynasty costume, hold a folding fan, dance gracefully, and capture this dynamic moment for unique travel memories. Or stand on the viewing platform, with the city's prosperity and garden's flowers as background, spread your arms wide, and capture the moment of embracing spring, showing vitality and energy. 2️⃣ China National Flower Garden (Spring Limited) After leaving the heritage park, head to the China National Flower Garden. April is peony season in Luoyang, and this place becomes an ocean of flowers. Various peony varieties compete in beauty - red like fire🔥, white like snow, pink like sunset clouds. Walking among them with fragrance all around feels like being in paradise. Find a peony cluster, crouch down, gently smell the flowers, and take artistic photos to capture this beautiful spring scene. 3️⃣ Cross Street (Dinner) In the evening, visit Cross Street. This brightly lit, bustling area gathers various Luoyang specialties, from Water Banquet to grilled wheat gluten, all aromatic and enticing. Find a popular food stall, sit down, and fully enjoy the local cuisine, savoring your Luoyang journey as you perfectly conclude these 48 hours😃. 🏨【Accommodation Recommendations】 Recommend staying in the Old Town area, close to Longmen Grottoes, Lijing Gate, and other attractions for convenient travel while experiencing the ancient capital's charm. Various accommodation options are available, from boutique guesthouses to comfortable hotels, meeting different needs. 🚗【Transportation Tips】 Luoyang has convenient transportation with airports and high-speed rail stations. Within the city, buses and subway reach most attractions; tourist buses serve farther spots like Longmen Grottoes. Scenic areas have sightseeing vehicles and walking paths for easy touring. 💬【Final Thoughts】 April in Luoyang offers profound historical and cultural heritage, spectacular flower views, and mouth-watering cuisine. Step into this city humming a tune, and these 48 hours will surely enchant you. Come start your journey exploring the ancient charm of this divine capital!