Explore ancient capital Luoyang's UNESCO grottoes, China's first Buddhist temple, magnificent peony gardens, and savor imperial cuisine including the famous Water Banquet.

Marvel at the exquisite Buddhist rock carvings spanning 1,400 years along the Yi River. See the magnificent Fengxian Temple with its 17-meter-tall Vairocana Buddha and thousands of niches housing statues.

🚗 Transportation: Take tourist bus #81 from Luoyang city center (30-40 minutes) or taxi (25 minutes)

💡 Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the river path. Morning light is best for photography. Hire an audio guide for detailed historical context.

Explore China's first Buddhist temple established in 68 AD. See the Indian, Thai, and Burmese temple sections within the complex, ancient sutras, and the iconic white horse statues commemorating the temple's origin story.

🚗 Transportation: Take bus #56 from Longmen Grottoes (1 hour) or taxi (40 minutes)

💡 Tips: Don't miss the International Buddhist Temple area. Dress modestly as this is an active religious site. Visit the tranquil gardens behind the main halls.

🥐 Breakfast: Local breakfast noodles at hotel or nearby restaurant

🍜 Lunch: Simple vegetarian noodles at Longmen Grottoes visitor center

🍽️ Dinner: Authentic Luoyang Water Banquet at Zhen Bu Tong Restaurant near city center

Explore three floors of exhibits showcasing Luoyang's 5,000-year history as ancient capital of multiple dynasties. Highlights include Tang Dynasty tri-color glazed pottery, ancient bronzes, and royal tomb artifacts.

🚗 Transportation: Take bus #77 from city center (20 minutes) or taxi (15 minutes)

💡 Tips: Free entry but bring ID for registration. English audio guides available. Don't miss the Ancient Capital Luoyang exhibition on second floor.

Experience China's peony capital at its finest (best April-May). See thousands of peony varieties in bloom, traditional Chinese garden landscapes, and if visiting outside season, enjoy the excellent peony exhibition halls.

🚗 Transportation: Taxi from museum (20 minutes) or bus #27

💡 Tips: April 10-25 is peak bloom season. Visit the greenhouse if outside season. Try peony-themed snacks and teas available in the garden.

🥐 Breakfast: Steamed buns and soybean milk at hotel

🍜 Lunch: Local dumplings at museum cafeteria or nearby restaurant

🍽️ Dinner: Peony Swallow Dish and Tang Dynasty Palace Cuisine at Guan Yuan Restaurant

Explore the archaeological remains of ancient Luoyang's imperial city, including reconstructed gates, palace foundations, and the excellent museum showcasing the city's planning as one of the world's largest ancient capitals.

🚗 Transportation: Taxi from city center (15 minutes) or bus #55

💡 Tips: Combine with the nearby Ancient Tomb Museum if time allows. Wear sun protection as much is outdoors. The scale model in the museum helps visualize the ancient city.

Stroll through traditional architecture, browse for local crafts, peony-themed souvenirs, and try street food specialties. Visit the Folk Museum to see traditional Luoyang lifestyle exhibits.

🚗 Transportation: Walk or short taxi ride from city center

💡 Tips: Bargain politely at souvenir stalls. Try the local peony cakes and candies. Late afternoon is less crowded.

🥐 Breakfast: Local breakfast market experience near hotel

🍜 Lunch: Carp Jumping Over Dragon Gate dish at a traditional restaurant near the ruins

🍽️ Dinner: Farewell Water Banquet feast at Tian Xiang Restaurant featuring 24 courses