Longmen Grottoes Guide
Longmen Grottoes: A Masterpiece of Buddhist Art Guide
Prepare to be awestruck by the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just south of Luoyang, China. This incredible collection of Buddhist cave art spans over a kilometer along the banks of the Yi River. Carved into the limestone cliffs, the grottoes contain tens of thousands of statues of Buddha and his disciples, representing a remarkable feat of artistic and religious devotion. A visit to Longmen Grottoes is a journey through centuries of Chinese Buddhist art and history. The construction of the Longmen Grottoes began in 493 AD during the Northern Wei Dynasty and continued for over 400 years through various dynasties, including the Sui, Tang, and Song. The different dynasties left their mark on the grottoes, resulting in a diverse range of artistic styles and influences. The grottoes were commissioned by emperors, empresses, and wealthy patrons seeking to express their piety and gain merit. The sculptures depict various Buddhist deities, scenes from Buddhist scriptures, and portraits of historical figures. Explore the numerous caves and niches, each filled with intricate carvings and statues. Some of the most famous grottoes include the Fengxian Temple, featuring the colossal Vairocana Buddha, and the Wanfo Cave, adorned with thousands of small Buddha images. Take a boat trip along the Yi River for a different perspective of the grottoes. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated directly with the Longmen Grottoes, Luoyang's Water Banquet (Shui Xi) is a must-try local culinary experience. Many restaurants in Luoyang offer this unique dining experience.
Transportation
From Luoyang Railway Station, take bus number 81 or K81 directly to the Longmen Grottoes. The journey takes approximately 40-60 minutes. You can also take bus number 53 from the city center. Taxis are also readily available.
Opening Hours
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Ticket Price
100 RMB