Vairocana Buddha

Introducing Vairocana Buddha

The Vairocana Buddha was sculpted in the image of Wu Zetian in the third year of Emperor Gaozong of the Tang Dynasty's Xianheng reign (672 AD). It is located in Fengxian Temple on the southern hillside of West Hill of Longmen in Luoyang. It is 17.14 meters high and is the site with the highest artistic level, the most rigorous overall design, and the largest scale among the Longmen Grottoes.

Standing close and gazing at the Buddha, one is filled with awe. He wears a robe that flows freely from the right shoulder to the left, creating a flowing, majestic image. Vairocana Buddha, known in Sanskrit as Locanabuddha, is the Sambhogakaya Buddha, representing the body of the Buddha who has attained the Absolute Truth, achieved enlightenment, and manifested his wisdom. "Vairocana" means vast wisdom and radiant light.

Over the past 1,500 years, only the hands and legs below the Buddha's feet have collapsed due to cracks in the geological structure and temperature fluctuations; the rest of the Buddha remains largely intact. Although it is no longer possible to see the Buddha's newly painted and worshipped image, one can still imagine the grand ceremonies held by the royal family and nobles. Undoubtedly, everything here reflects the greatness and prosperity of the Tang Dynasty.

Climate and best time to travel

temperate monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

It is recommended to visit for about half an hour

Tickets

100 yuan (Longmen Grottoes scenic area pass)

Attraction opening hours

07:30-18:30

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Most Popular FAQs for Vairocana Buddha

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

The Vairocana Buddha, carved during the Tang Dynasty (circa 675 CE), is the most iconic statue in the Longmen Grottoes. Commissioned by Emperor Gaozong and Empress Wu Zetian, it represents the supreme Buddha of the cosmos. Standing about 17 meters tall, it is celebrated for its serene expression and perfect proportions, symbolizing Tang-era artistic mastery and Buddhist devotion.

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

• Location: Longmen Grottoes, Longmen Avenue, Luolong District, Luoyang, Henan, China.
• By bus: Take bus 81 or 53 from Luoyang Railway Station directly to the Longmen Grottoes stop.
• By train: From Luoyang Longmen Railway Station, it’s about a 10-minute taxi ride.
• By taxi: A convenient 30-minute ride from central Luoyang.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (summer), 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (winter).
• Best time to visit: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) for comfortable weather and scenic river views.
• Early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended for softer light and fewer crowds.

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

• Ticket price: Around 90 RMB for adults; discounts available for students and seniors.
• Tickets can be purchased online via Chinese travel platforms like Trip.com or Meituan, or offline at the entrance ticket office.

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

Advance booking is not mandatory but is recommended during national holidays or weekends to avoid queues.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Approximately 2–3 hours are sufficient to explore the Vairocana Buddha and surrounding grottoes leisurely.

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

• Vairocana Buddha at Fengxian Temple — the centerpiece of the grottoes.
• Guyang Cave — one of the earliest caves with intricate carvings.
• Binyang Caves — notable for their royal inscriptions and fine details.
• Xiangshan Temple and Bai Garden — scenic spots offering panoramic views.

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

Yes, guided tours are available in Chinese and English, and audio guides can be rented at the entrance in multiple languages including English, Korean, and Japanese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The viewing platform opposite Fengxian Temple across the Yi River.
• The top of Xiangshan Temple for panoramic shots of the grottoes.
• The riverside walkway near the main Buddha statue for close-up photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the north entrance → Guyang Cave → Binyang Caves → Fengxian Temple (Vairocana Buddha) → cross the bridge → Xiangshan Temple → Bai Garden.

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

Yes, during peak tourist seasons, night tours and light shows illuminate the grottoes, offering a stunning perspective of the Vairocana Buddha.

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

• It can get crowded during national holidays and weekends.
• Weekdays and early mornings are the best times to visit for a quieter experience.

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

• Clean toilets and rest areas are located near entrances and along major paths.
• Shops selling snacks, water, and souvenirs are available.
• Restaurants and tea houses can be found near the exit and Xiangshan Temple area.

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

Partially accessible. Main paths are paved and suitable for wheelchairs, but some caves require stair climbing. Elderly visitors can rent electric carts near entrances.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted; international cards may not be accepted at smaller vendors, so carrying some cash is advisable.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Xiangshan Temple Tea House – offers local snacks and drinks with a view.
• Longmen Impression Restaurant – serves Henan cuisine near the exit.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, vegetarian options are available at temple eateries and nearby local restaurants; halal restaurants can be found in central Luoyang.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Luoyang Longmen Hotel – upscale and closest to the grottoes.
• New Friendship Hotel – comfortable option in downtown Luoyang.
• Holiday Inn Express Luoyang City Center – mid-range and convenient.

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

• White Horse Temple – China’s first Buddhist temple, about 30 minutes away.
• Luoyang Museum – showcases ancient artifacts of the region.
• Guanlin Temple – dedicated to General Guan Yu from the Three Kingdoms era.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Souvenir shops near the exits sell Buddhist statues, postcards, stone carvings, and Luoyang peony-themed items.

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

• Taxi or bus back to Luoyang city center for dining or hotel stay.
• Train from Luoyang Longmen Station to Zhengzhou or Xi’an for next destinations.