Hometown of the Two Chengs

Introducing the hometown of the two Chengs

The Hometown of the Two Chengs is located in Cheng Village, Song County, Luoyang City. The petite Pa Luo Mountain and the towering Jiu Gao Mountain are gently separated by the beautiful Yi River. Luhun Lake, like a warm mirror, embraces the beauty of the four seasons, creating a unique Song County beauty: Luhun Spring Dawn. This place bears the footprints of Laozi and Confucius, as well as the presence of Li Bai and Cen Shen. It is also home to the two Cheng brothers, who taught and wrote. The beautiful scenery, rich history, and profound Neo-Confucian thought have transformed this place into a mysterious paradise on earth. The Hometown of the Two Chengs, a National Key Cultural Relics Protection Site (III-330), is located in Cheng Village, Tianhu Town, Song County, Luoyang, Henan Province, approximately 70 kilometers from Luoyang. It is where the Song Dynasty Neo-Confucian brothers Cheng Hao and Cheng Yi wrote and taught. The Stone Archway of the Hometown of the Two Chengs, located 1 kilometer east of Cheng Village, was erected by imperial decree in the sixth year of the Tianshun reign of Emperor Yingzong of the Ming Dynasty (1462 AD). It bears the inscriptions "Imperial Edict" on the top and "Hometown of the Two Chengs" on the bottom.

The hometown of the two Chengs is an ancient yet brand-new temple of thought. The thousand-year-old cypress trees are silently proclaiming the great achievements of the two Chengs and demonstrating a lofty and harmonious pursuit; the ancient stone tablets and royal inscriptions full of praise have formed a thick collection of moral books; the large and small study rooms allow people to travel through the tunnel of history and feel the saints' explanations "like sitting in the spring breeze"; "Standing in the Snow Outside Cheng's Door" reminds people from generation to generation of the greatness and longevity of education and teachers.

Climate and best time to travel

The warm temperate continental monsoon climate allows you to feel the cultural atmosphere of the ancients and the strong rural cultural atmosphere. The scenery here is beautiful, far away from the smog and hustle and bustle of big cities. It is more suitable for self-cultivation and experiencing rural culture. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

We recommend visiting the Cheng Family Temple. Seeing the three large characters "Lingxing Gate" (Lingxing Gate) will evoke a sense of respect before even entering. According to Cheng Chuanshi, ancient legends circulated that the "Literary Star" in the sky was Lingxing, and the inscription of this name on the main gate is a testament to the respect shown to these two great scholars. During the feudal era, the Lingxing Gate was only opened during the February and August ceremonies honoring the Cheng Family, or when the emperor and his imperial envoys visited. Passing through the second gate, Chengjing Gate, leads to the Taoist Academy.

It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

Open all day

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Most Popular FAQs for Hometown of the Two Chengs

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Hometown of the Two Chengs is the birthplace of the famous Chinese statesmen, Cheng Hao and Cheng Yi, two prominent philosophers from the Song Dynasty. The site is renowned for its rich cultural and historical heritage, celebrating Confucian values and Chinese philosophy.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The site is located in Luoyang, Henan Province. You can reach it by taxi or local buses from the city center. The nearest metro station is about 30 minutes away, and walking is a pleasant option if you're staying nearby.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the landscape is most scenic.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, or you can buy them online through official ticketing platforms.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not required but recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends. You can book tickets up to a week in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes around 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the site, including visiting the museums, historical buildings, and enjoying the natural surroundings.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Must-see highlights include the Cheng family's ancestral halls, the Two Chengs Memorial Hall, and the beautiful surrounding gardens that offer a tranquil atmosphere for reflection.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides can be rented in English and Chinese at the entrance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are around the Cheng family ancestral halls and the natural gardens. The architecture combined with the scenic backdrop makes for great photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a visit to the Cheng family ancestral halls, then explore the museum exhibits. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and surrounding landscapes.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not available, but special cultural events may be held during major festivals. Check the local schedule for light shows or performances.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It can get crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly in the early mornings or late afternoons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

The site has toilets, a small café offering refreshments, and a few souvenir shops where you can buy local handicrafts.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction is generally accessible for elderly and disabled visitors, with ramps and rest areas provided. However, some areas may have uneven terrain.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used, and cards are also accepted in most areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few small cafés near the attraction offering light meals. For a wider variety of food options, visit the city center of Luoyang, where you’ll find numerous restaurants.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available at nearby restaurants. Halal food options can be found in Luoyang's Muslim Quarter.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a variety of hotels nearby, ranging from budget to luxury options. Consider staying in central Luoyang for more accommodation choices.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Longmen Grottoes, White Horse Temple, and the Luoyang Museum. These can be easily combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops offering traditional Chinese items such as calligraphy, silk, and tea, along with more local handicrafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, you can take a taxi or local bus to continue your trip to other nearby attractions. If you’re traveling to other cities, Luoyang's railway station is well-connected.