A city of Luoyang, half of Chinese history

A city of Luoyang, half of Chinese history, 3 days immersive journey through the ancient capital spanning a thousand years If you want to understand the depth of Chinese civilization in one city, it must be Luoyang. The heritage of the thirteen dynasties’ ancient capital is hidden in every street and alley. In spring, peonies compete in bloom; in autumn, ginkgo leaves carpet the ground in gold. This profound and romantic experience spanning a millennium is worth your personal visit. 🌟 Must-visit core attractions 1. Longmen Grottoes | The pinnacle of stone carving art The Longmen Grottoes are less crowded in the early morning, and the grotto clusters along both sides of the Yi River look even more solemn in the morning light. Walk slowly along the West Mountain grotto plank road and see the compassion and calm in the eyes of the Vairocana Buddha, a masterpiece by craftsmen from the Wu Zetian era. Touching the weathered stone walls with your fingertips, you can almost hear the chiseling sounds from a thousand years ago. It’s best to avoid noon; at dusk, the sunset shining on the Buddha statues creates a golden glow that is stunning for photos. 2. Luoyang Museum | A glance through a thousand years If you want to quickly understand Luoyang’s history, the museum is definitely the first stop! The Tang dynasty tri-colored glazed horses are brightly colored, the lotus flower vase is exquisitely crafted, and the restored model of the Sui and Tang Luoyang city vividly shows the grandeur of the "Emperor’s three exits." Focus on the "treasure of the museum," the white jade cup, simple and warm, fully displaying the style of the Wei and Jin dynasties. Tips: Be sure to rent an audio guide or join a public tour, or you might miss the stories behind the artifacts. 3. Yingtian Gate | The "Forbidden City" of the Sui and Tang dynasties The night view of Yingtian Gate is breathtaking! As the main gate of Sui and Tang Luoyang city, the architectural style of the "Emperor’s three exits" is imposing. When the light show starts, the thousand-year-old city gate flows with light and shadow, as if traveling back to the Lantern Festival of the prosperous Tang dynasty. It’s recommended to arrive half an hour early to secure a good spot. The light show combined with music and narration creates an immersive atmosphere. Wearing Hanfu for photos here makes you look like a figure in a painting. 4. White Horse Temple | China’s first ancient Buddhist temple This is the first government-established temple after Buddhism was introduced to China. The Qiyun Pagoda and the Mahavira Hall inside the temple retain their ancient style. Amid the incense smoke, you can see Buddhist halls from India, Thailand, Myanmar, and other countries, each with distinct styles but equally solemn. When tired, sit under the ginkgo tree inside the temple and listen to monks chanting, feeling especially peaceful. Don’t forget to take a photo with the white horse statue at the entrance, marking the origin of the "White Horse carrying scriptures." 🍜 Taste of Luoyang - Water Banquet: Must-try peony swallow’s nest soup and continuous soup pork slices, sour and appetizing. Every dish relies on soup, showcasing the ancient capital’s culinary characteristics. Recommended restaurants are "Zhen Butong" or the local old brand "Luoyang Water Banquet Garden." - Snack Street: The night market at Old City Cross Street is very lively! Try fan tang (soup), oil tea, fried cold noodles, peony cakes, and eat while walking to experience the bustling local life. - Breakfast staple: Have a bowl of steaming hot beef soup with freshly baked oil twists sprinkled with chopped green onions to warmly start your day. 📍 3-day itinerary reference Day 1: Longmen Grottoes → Luoyang Museum → Old City Cross Street (night tour) Day 2: White Horse Temple → Yingtian Gate (night light show) Day 3: Laojun Mountain / Song Mountain (optional natural scenery) → Return trip 💡 Practical tips 1. Wear comfortable shoes; there is a lot of walking, especially at Longmen Grottoes and Laojun Mountain. 2. For sisters wanting Hanfu photo shoots, there are many Hanfu rental shops in the old city with good value for makeup and styling. Yingtian Gate and Luoyi Ancient City are excellent shooting locations. 3. Transportation is very convenient; city attractions can be reached by taxi or subway. There are direct buses to Longmen Grottoes and White Horse Temple. Luoyang is not just a city relying on ancient sites; it integrates a thousand years of history into daily life. Here, every step is poetry, and every place has a story. Take advantage of the good season and come to this date with Chinese civilization~