What makes Longmen Grottoes a Must Visit

Abounding with thousands of grottoes, sculptures, and inscriptions, Longmen Grottoes, also known as Longmen Caves, holds the esteemed title of a Buddhist Art Treasure. Alongside Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes in Gansu and Yungang Grottoes in Shanxi, it ranks among China's top three renowned grotto sites. Recognized for its remarkable Buddha complexes and unparalleled artistic expression, Longmen Grottoes earned a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2000.

Stretching or a kilometer along the cliffs of West and East hills, Longmen Grottoes are connected by two bridges, housing over 2300 caves and 100,000 Buddha statues (predominantly on the West Hill). Ranging from 17 meters to 2 centimeters in height, these statues offer a breathtaking testament to ancient craftsmanship. Moreover, the site features hundreds of inscriptions, showcasing the artistry of ancient calligraphy.

The Layout of Longmen Grottoes

Longmen Grottoes Longmen Grottoes Layout Map

The Longmen Grottoes Scenic Area encompasses four main sections: the West Hill Grottoes located on the West Hill (also known as Longmen Hill) along the west bank of the Yi River, and the East Hill Grottoes, Xiangshan Temple, and Baiyuan (Bai Juyi's Tomb) situated on the East Hill (also known as Xiangshan Hill) on the east bank of the Yi River. Manshui Bridge to the south and Longmen Bridge to the north connect the two hills across the river. The West Hill Grottoes are home to many must-see sights such as the Vairocana Buddha and Binyang Cave, making it the ideal starting point for exploring the extensive artistic treasures of the Longmen Grottoes.

West Hill Grottoes - the Essence of Longmen Grottoes

Carved over four centuries, the West Hill Grottoes are the heart and soul of Longmen. Spanning a majestic landscape, they boast over 50 large and medium-sized caves created during the Northern Wei and Tang Dynasties, alongside countless smaller grottoes. This breathtaking collection represents the pinnacle of artistic achievement at Longmen. stand as the epitome of the Longmen Grottoes. Within this sprawling complex, visitors can immerse themselves in numerous captivating grottoes, including the renowned Fengxian Temple, Binyang Cave, and Wanfo Cave.

Vairocana Buddha in Fengxian Temple 卢舍那大佛

Fengxian Temple, constructed during the Tang Dynasty (AD 618 - 907), features a niche spanning 36 meters in width and 41 meters in height. Its crowning jewel is the majestic Vairocana Buddha, towering at an impressive height of 17.14 meters. This Buddha exudes an aura of elegance, solemnity, and loftiness, featuring distinctive facial features that vividly depict tranquility and grace. Flanking the Buddha are meticulously crafted depictions of disciples, bodhisattvas, heavenly kings, and warriors, following the traditional layout of Chinese Buddhism. Each figure exemplifies exquisite craftsmanship, adding to the grandeur of the grotto’s ambiance.

Legend has it that the Vairocana Buddha is modeled after Wu Zetian (武则天), the revered and only female emperor in Chinese history, adding to its historical significance.

Longmen Grottoes The Vairocana Buddha

Binyang Cave 宾阳洞

Binyang Cave, formerly known as Lingyan Temple, comprises three sections: Binyang Middle Cave, Binyang North Cave, and Binyang South Cave. Initially excavated in the first year of the Jingming period (AD 500) during the Northern Wei Dynasty, Binyang Cave boasts a history spanning over 1500 years. It holds the distinction of being the first royal cave, commissioned to commemorate the historical achievements of Emperor Xiaowen, particularly in relocating the capital to Luoyang and spearheading the Sinicization reform.

The construction of Binyang Cave spanned 24 years and employed over 800,000 individuals. However, only the middle Binyang Cave was completed during the Northern Wei Dynasty, while the south cave (constructed from AD 595-616) and north cave (built from AD 641-650) were finished successively during the Sui and Tang Dynasties, respectively.

Among the countless Buddha statues in Binyang Cave, the Amitābha in the south cave has become an internet sensation. His raised right hand, in a pose often mistaken for a "victory sign" (index and middle finger extended), has sparked online interest. However, this gesture is actually a mudra, a symbolic hand position used in Buddhist art. In this case, the Amitābha's mudra likely represents granting wishes or fearlessness. Unfortunately, the thumb on this raised hand is broken, further contributing to the resemblance of a victory sign.

Longmen Grottoes Binyang Cave

Wanfo Cave 万佛洞

Nestled amidst the slopes of West Hill lies Wanfo Cave, aptly named for the over 15,000 small Buddhas adorning its south and north walls. This captivating spectacle is a true testament to Buddhist devotion. Take center stage, the main Buddha Amida sits serenely in a lotus position on his Sumeru throne. His distinctive wavy hair knot and gentle, full face radiate a sense of peace. Behind him, a magnificent display unfolds - 54 lotus carvings, each cradling a Bodhisattva in a unique pose. From the countless Buddhas with their diverse expressions and hand gestures (mudras) to the main figures, Wanfo Cave embodies the harmonious essence of the Western Pure Land.

A hidden gem awaits you by the south entrance. Here, a graceful Bodhisattva statue exudes a sense of tranquility. This very figure is said to have inspired the renowned Peking opera artist Mei Fang, influencing his performances.

Longmen Grottoes Wanfo Cave

Guyang Cave 古阳洞

Standing as the oldest (built in 493 AD) and most content-rich cave in the Longmen Grottoes for over 1,500 years, Guyang Cave boasts a remarkable legacy. Over 1,000 Buddhist niches in various styles adorn its walls and ceiling, accompanied by 800 inscriptions showcasing diverse shapes, patterns, and the finest preserved stele calligraphy from the Northern Wei period, making it a treasure trove of both artistic mastery and historical significance.

Lotus Cave (Lianhua Cave) 莲花洞

Carved from a natural karst cave, Lotus Cave on the north side of Fengxian Temple gets its name from the massive lotus relief adorning its ceiling. This flower, symbolizing purity in Buddhism, is flanked by three graceful apsarases on both the north and south walls, all facing inwards to honor the sacred lotus. Below, a vibrant scene unfolds: a 5-meter-tall Gautama Buddha delivers a sermon to his standing students, surrounded by a multitude of smaller Buddha statues joining the gathering.

More about What to See in Longmen Grottoes >>

Longmen Grottoes Guyang Cave
Longmen Grottoes Lianhua Cave

Two Magical Stones

Apart from the amazing grottoes with exquisite Buddha statues, you can also Venture beyond the grottoes and discover two fascinating natural wonders - two magic stones. The first, Peony Stone, a dark green stone, is intricately adorned with white and cyan peony patterns, earning its name for their lifelike details and elegant simplicity. The second, Plum Blossom Jade, is a unique variety found only in Luoyang. Its natural pattern resembles delicate plum blossoms and boasts trace elements of iron, zinc, and other minerals, making it a valuable addition to any collection.

Longmen Grottoes Peony Stone

Attractions in Eastern Hill of Longmen Grottoes

While the West Hill boasts the grand Longmen Grottoes, the Eastern Hill offers a quieter yet charming experience with four unique attractions

Buddha Worship Platform 礼佛台

Standing directly opposite Fengxian Temple, this platform offers the perfect vantage point to capture the majestic Vairocana Buddha and the sprawling West Grottoes in a single, breathtaking view. Its proximity to the sightseeing car stop adds to its convenience.

East Hill Grottoes 东山石窟

While smaller in scale compared to the West Hill Grottoes, the East Hill offers a unique perspective on Longmen's artistic heritage. Dating solely from the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), it boasts around 20 large and medium-sized caves, alongside smaller ones. Highlights include Two Lotus Cave (二莲华洞), Kanjingsi Cave (看经寺洞), Leigutai Three Caves (擂鼓台三洞).

Xiangshan Temple 香山寺

Nestled amidst the Eastern Hill, Xiangshan Temple boasts a rich history spanning centuries. Originally built in 516 AD during the North Wei Dynasty, it was later rebuilt in 687 AD during the Tang Dynasty. The Stone Tower, a prominent feature within the temple grounds, was said to be a favorite haunt of the formidable Empress Wu Zetian, and whispers of her reign linger here.

Centuries later, the renowned poet Bai Juyi (白居易) found solace in this tranquil setting. He was so enchanted by the temple's serenity that he moved nearby and adopted the title "Hermit of Xiangshan." Even in the 20th century, the temple offered a cool retreat during the summer heat. Statesman Jiang Jieshi (蒋介石) and his wife sought refuge here, and their preserved villa with its original furnishings stands as a testament to that time.

Bai's Garden 白园

Nestled amidst the picturesque Pipa Peak on the Eastern Hill, Bai's Garden serves as a serene memorial to the revered poet Bai Juyi. Here, time seems to slow down as you wander through a landscape steeped in tranquility. Old buildings stand as silent testaments to the past, while verdant plants, a peaceful pond, and vibrant flowers create a truly poetic environment. As you stroll along the Poem Corridor, take a moment to admire the many poems by Bai Juyi exquisitely carved into the walls. These enduring verses become one with the tranquil beauty of the garden, offering a glimpse into the poet's soul and further enriching your experience.

Longmen Grottoes Our Guests at Buddha Worship Platform
Longmen Grottoes East Grottoes
Longmen Grottoes Xiangshan Temple
Longmen Grottoes Bai's Garden

Sightseeing Routes of Longmen Grottoes

Longmen Grottoes Longmen Grottoes Tourist Map

Longmen Grottoes Essence Travel Route: West Hill Grottoes - Buddha Worship Platform (Approx. 2.5 hours)

Begin your journey by exploring the captivating grottoes of West Hill. Then, stroll across Manshui Bridge to the Buddha Worship Platform to capture breathtaking views of the Vairocana Buddha and the expansive West Hill Grottoes. Conclude your experience with a convenient battery car ride back to the Tourist Center.

Longmen Grottoes Highlights Routes: West Hill Grottoes - Buddha Worship Platform - Xiangshan Temple (Approx. 3.5 hours)

After West Hill Grottoes, then climb to the historical Xiangshan Temple after enjoying the panoramic view. Descend and choose to walk back to the main exit or continue to Bai's Garden for an electric car ride.

Longmen Grottoes In-depth Travel Route: West Hill Grottoes - East Hill Grottoes - Buddha Worship Platform - Xiangshan Temple - Bai's Garden (Approx. 4 hours)

If your time permits, enjoy a comprehensive journey through the grottoes, starting with West Hill Grottoes before crossing the bridge to uncover the treasures of the East Hill Grottoes. Continue to the Buddha Worship Platform for awe-inspiring views, then ascend to Xiangshan Temple. End your immersive experience with a visit to Bai's Garden, a serene tribute to poet Bai Juyi. Choose to board a battery car at Bai's Garden or return to the Tourist Center on foot.

Travel Longmen Grottoes at Night

Longmen Grottoes now offers a unique experience: night tours! Witness the awe-inspiring transformation as darkness descends. Bathed in evening light, the 1,500-year-old Buddha statues take on an air of mystery and grandeur. This enchanting experience is part of Luoyang's initiative to promote nighttime exploration of the city's iconic landmarks.

Ticket: Night tour tickets are separate from daytime admissions (CNY 90).

Opening Hours: 19:00-23:00 (Caves on the West Hill close at 22:00, Xiangshan Temple closes at 23:00)

Note: Longmen Grottoes' opening hours and accessible areas can vary throughout the year. Please check for the latest updates before your visit.

Longmen Grottoes Longmen Grottoes at Night

Comparison between Longmen Grottoes with other Buddhist Grottoes

Aside from the Longmen Grottoes, there are numerous other remarkable Buddhist Grottoes worth visiting in China. These include the Mogao Cave in Dunhuang, Yungang Grottoes in Datong, Yulin Caves in Guazhou, and Maijishan Grottoes in Tianshui, Dazu Rock Carvings in Chongqing, among others. Of these grottoes, Mogao, Longmen, and Yungang Grottoes stand out as the most popular. All three are designated UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites, drawing countless travelers and Buddhist devotees. Here's a comparison of these renowned grottoes: For a detailed comparison, please refer to the following information or explore our Top 10 Buddhist Grottoes & Caves in China to learn more.

Grottoes Longmen Grottoes Mogao Grottoes Yungang Grottoes
Firstly Built in 493 AD (in Northern Wei Dynasty) 366 AD (in Sixteen Kingdoms) 460 AD (in Northern Wei Dynasty)
History Over 1,500 years Over 1,600 years Over 1,500 years
Number of Caves 2,300 Caves 735 Caves 254 Caves
Uniqueness The largest and most outstanding carving art A comprehensive art that integrates architecture, colored sculptures and murals Masterpiece in the first peak period of Chinese Buddhist cave art
Status & influence 1) Outstanding manifestation of human artistic creativity;
2) One of China's handful of surviving masterpieces of Buddhist rock carving;
3) Notable displays of Buddhist sculptures and calligraphic inscriptions.
1) Evidence of the evolution of Buddhist art in the northwest region of China;
2) A group of ancient caves built in different dynasties;
3) Depicting various aspects of medieval politics, economics, culture, arts, religion, ethnic relations, and daily dress in western China.
1) Successful fusion of Buddhist religious symbolic art from south and central Asia with Chinese cultural traditions;2) Illustrating the power and endurance of Buddhist belief in China;3) Making impact on Buddhist cave art along the silk road.
Highlights 1) Three Binyang Grottoes - displaying the benevolent expressions of Northern Wei style;
2) Ten Thousand Buddha Grotto - galaxy of tiny bas-relief Buddhas;
3) Losana Buddha Statue Grotto - containing the best examples of sculpture.
1) Mogao Caves Digital Exhibition Center - first stop with clear details of the caves ;
2) No. 148 - housing a 16-meter long sleeping Buddha;
3) No. 96 - the symbolic cave of Mogao Cave with famous 9-storey tower outside and 33-meter high Buddha inside;
4) No. 16 & 17 - unique cave-in-cave structure with the famous Library Cave.
1) Cave 5 - 17m-high, seated effigy of Sakyamuni with a gilded face;
2) Cave 6 - the Cave of Sakyamuni, resembling an overblown set from an Indiana Jones epic;
3) Cave 9 - the Aksokhya Buddha Cave with its vast seated and gold-faced Buddha;
4) Caves 16 to 20 - earliest caves carved under the supervision of monk Tanyao.

Best Tours to Explore Buddhist Grottoes in China:

☞ 4 Days Classic Dunhuang Tour (Dunhuang)

☞ 8 Days Gansu Highlights Tour (Lanzhou - Xiahe - Jiayuguan - Dunhuang)

☞ 2 Days Datong Yungang Grottoes Tour

Best Time for Longmen Grottoes

Best Season: Longmen Grottoes' artistic treasures can be admired year-round. However, for the most pleasant weather, aim for the mild months of spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). If you're captivated by colorful blooms, April boasts the dazzling display of peony flowers.

Best Time of Day: Many exquisite statues reside in caves with limited natural light. Mornings offer the best opportunity to view them clearly, especially in the West Hill Grottoes which face east and bathe in the morning sun. However, during the summer, consider an afternoon visit to escape the strong morning heat.

How to Get to Longmen Grottoes

Longmen Grottoes is located in Longmen Town, Luolong District, Luoyang City.

  • 15 km away from Luoyang downtown, about 30 minutes' drive;
  • 5 km away from Luoyang Longmen Railway Station, about 15 minutes' drive;
  • 26 km away from Luoyang Beijiao Airport, about 45 minutes' drive;
  • 26 km away from White Horse Temple, about 45 minutes' drive;
  • 55 km away from Shaolin Temple, about 1.5 hours' drive.

How to Get to Luoyang: Many tourists choose to get to Luoyang first and then travel to Longmen Grottoes. Luoyang can be reached by a few international flights, some domestic flights and many high speed trains. If you are already in China, it is easy to take direct flights to Luoyang from Beijing (2h), Shanghai (2-2.5h), Chengdu (2h), Chongqing (1.5h), Guangzhou (2.5h), Shenzhen (2.5h), etc., and high speed trains from Beijing (4-4.5h), Xian (1.5-2h), Zhengzhou (40 min), Shanghai (5 ~ 9h), etc. All flights land on Luoyang Beijiao International Airport and all high speed trains arrive at Luoyang Longmen Railway Stations.

Luoyang to Longmen Grottoes: Luoyang is not equipped with metro at present. The most chosen way for independent travelers to get to Longmen Grottoes is driving or taking a taxi. If you get to Luoyang by high speed train before noon, you can visit Longmen Grottoes directly. More about How to Get to Longmen Grottoes >>

Luoyang Location Map Luoyang Location Map (Click to Enlarge)
Longmen Grottoes Longmen Grottoes Location Map (Click to Enlarge)

It is strongly recommended to travel with China Discovery. Our local travel guide and driver will pick you up at the airport or train station as you arrive with an air-conditioned and non-smoking vehicle, and then escort you to your hotel or every attraction listed in your itinerary. Great freedom will be given to you when you need to stop for sightseeing and photograph if possible. You are sure to enjoy a comfortable, safe and efficient experience.

Useful Tips of Visiting Longmen Grottoes

Two Tourist Centers

Longmen Grottoes has two main tourist centers: Northeast and Northwest. Battery cars conveniently connect them for easy travel within the vast site. While the Northeast Tourist Center offers easier access to the West Hill Grottoes, the parking lot is actually located at the Southwest Center. Plan your arrival and departure accordingly.

Ticket Information

The full price of daytime ticket is CNY 90 including West Hill Grottoes, East Hill Grottoes, Xiangshan Temple and Baiyuan Garden; and children below 1.4 meters or younger than 12 years old are free of charge.

Ticket Selling Dates & Hours Last Admission Time
February - March (8:00 to 18:00) 17:00
April 1 - October 7 (8:00 to 18:30) 17:30
October 8 - October 31 (8:00 to 18:00) 17:00
November - January (8:00 to 17:00) 16:00

Scenic Guide Service

To gain deeper insights into the significance and history of the carvings at Longmen Grottoes, it is advisable to use the services of a guide. Audio guides are available in multiple languages including Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, and Cantonese, and can be rented for CNY 30 each. These audio guides provide basic introductory information about the attractions. For a more immersive and engaging experience,hiring an English-speaking tour guide is highly recommended. English guides offer vivid and captivating explanations. The prices for guides vary depending on their expertise, ranging from CNY 200 to CNY 700 per group. (Tour packages offered by China Discovery, include the services of a professional guide.)

Transportation Offered in the Scenic Spot

Battery cars (CNY 10 per person per ride) are available to help you navigate Longmen Grottoes’ vastness. They operate between four designated stops - Northwest Tourist Center, Northeast Tourist Center, Buddha Worship Platform, and Bai's Garden.

Sightseeing boats (CNY 30 per person) running from Fengxian Temple to Baiyuan Garden within several minutes offers a different perspective to enjoy the scenery of the scenery on two banks of the river.

Luggage Storage

You can store your luggage for free at the two Tourist Centers with a ticket to Longmen Grottoes until 17:30 (16:30 during November - January). However, during peak seasons, there might be limited space available for luggage storage.

What to Wear & Bring: Comfortable Shoes & Flashlight

While the pathway between the river and the grottoes is paved and well-maintained, accessing the various Buddhas in the caves involves climbing numerous stairs, both up and down. Therefore, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes. Additionally, the cave lighting is dim, so bringing a flashlight can be helpful. Carrying an umbrella, drinking water, and wearing breathable clothing are also practical suggestions.

Please note: all prices and timings mentioned in these tips are subject to change. They are provided for reference purposes only. For the most up-to-date information, please ask the scenic area directly or contact us for assistance.

How to Plan Your Travel in Luoyang

Usually, it takes 2 ~ 3 days to have a Luoyang tour. The highlights of Luoyang include Longmen Grottoes which is known as the finest examples of Chinese Buddhist art, 1900-year-old White Horse Temple (also China's first Buddhist temple), 2000-year-old burial site - Tianzi Jialiu Museum and beautiful Luoyang Museum with a lot of history to tell. Of course, you can't miss a Kung Fu exploration in Shaolin Temple (in Dengfeng city) if you visit Luoyang. It is only 55 km (about 1.5 hours' drive) away from Luoyang City.

√ 2 Days Luoyang Longmen Grottoes Tour
√ 3 Days Luoyang Kung Fu Tour

It's strongly recommended to extend your Luoyang tour to its attractive neighbors. After Shaolin Temple visit, you can spend 1 day exploring Zhengzhou or Kaifeng. If you are fond of nature, Mount Yuntai, Guoliang Village and Xiaolangdi Reservoir on Yellow River are recommended.

However, the best way to extend your Luoyang trip is starting a Xian Tour. Owning world-class treasures, Xian offers a lot to see and do. Taking a 1.5~2 hours high speed train, you can unveil an incredible experience of two old capital cities. It is quite popular to travel Beijing and Xian with Luoyang, because Luoyang is just located between them. Get inspired from our Xian Luoyang Tours now!

√ 6 Days Ancient Xian & Henan Tour (Xian / Luoyang / Dengfeng / Zhengzhou)
√ 8 Days China Ancient Capitals Tour (Beijing / Luoyang / Xian)
√ 10 Days China Culture Tour Plus Shaolin Kung Fu Experience (Beijing / Xian / Luoyang / Dengfeng / Zhengzhou / Shanghai)

Luoyang Our Customers visited Luoyang Longmen Grottoes Xian Our Customers visited Xian Ancient City Wall

Get Inspired by Real Travel Stories of Our Customers

Luoyang and nearby Shaolin Temple are very popular with our customers. Since 2012, we have helped thousands of customers visited the region successfully. With our fully-inclusive private tour packages, all of our customers enjoyed their trips to magnificent Longmen Grottoes, legendary Shaolin Temple, educational Luoyang Museum, beautiful Yuntain Mountain, etc. Some of them even had the rare opportunities to take part in the grand International Peony Festival in Luoyang. Many customers suggest visit Luoyang with Beijing, Xian, Pingyao and Shandong in northern China to explore authentic Chinese culture. Below are some inspiring travel stories:

Cultural Immersion Trip in Ancient Capitals of China (Beijing - Taiyuan - Pingyao - Xian - Luoyang - Dengfeng - Zhengzhou - Kaifeng - Qufu - Mount Tai - Beijing)
Sweet Couple's 21-Day Northern China Exploration (Beijing - Datong - Mount Wutai - Pingyao - Xian - Luoyang - Jinan - Taian - Qufu - Beijing - Chengde - Beijing)
19 China Trips of Vijay’s People - Spreading around Family & Friends of Wonder’s Good Service (Beijing / Luoyang / Xian / Chengdu/ Guangzhou / Guilin)
Sucking Cultural Fragrance from Time-honored Architectures (Kathmandu - Kunming - Lhasa - Shigatse - Xian - Luoyang - Pingyao - Datong)

Read more China travel stories > or find recommended similar tours>.

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