A Travel Guide to the Longmen Grottoes, a World Cultural Heritage Site!!!

### **1. Latest Ticketing Information**
1. **Ticketing System Upgrade and Adjustment** (Completed):
Online pre-sale was suspended from January 9 to 20, 2025, due to a ticketing system upgrade. Only same-day ticket purchases were supported during this period. The system has now been restored and **online booking is available**.
**Lunar New Year Holiday Notice**: If you are traveling during the holiday, please book online in advance (tickets may still be available from February 2 to 4).

2. **Ticket Inclusion**:
Tickets include admission to the West Hill Grottoes, East Hill Grottoes, Xiangshan Temple, and Bai Garden. Please keep your ticket stub as it is required for entry at each location.

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### **2. Transportation and Accommodation Suggestions**
1. **Transportation**:
- **High-speed Rail**: After arriving at Luoyang Longmen Station, take bus No. 490, 829, or the tourist line (You 4, 212) directly to the scenic area. The journey takes approximately 30 mins.
- **Car**: Drive from downtown Luoyang along National Highway 209 to Longmen Town, which takes about 20 mins.

2. **Accommodation Recommendations**:
- **Downtown Luoyang**: Hotels in the old town (e.g., Luoyang Old Town Hotel) offer an immersive experience of local culture and cuisine.
- **Near the Scenic Area**: Longmen Grand Hotel or characteristic inns are convenient for early morning visits to avoid crowds.

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### **3. Best Time and Season to Visit**
- **Best Seasons**: Spring and autumn (April, September-October) offer pleasant weather, avoiding the summer heat and winter cold.
- **Recommended Time of Day**: Morning or evening have fewer crowds and better lighting for photos. The illuminated Buddha statues during the Longmen Grottoes night tour are even more mystical.

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### **4. Core Attractions and Recommended Routes**
1. **Must-See Highlights**:
- **West Hill Grottoes**:
- **Luoyang Longmen Grottoes Lushena Buddha**: Standing 17m tall, this statue is known as the "Oriental Mona Lisa" and symbolizes Wu Zetian. The main Buddha has a benevolent face and exhibits exquisite craftsmanship.
- **Ten Thousand Buddha Cave**: This cave contains 15,000 small Buddha statues, showcasing the peak of Tang Dynasty art.
- **Fengxian Temple**: A royal grotto of the Tang Dynasty, featuring a grand complex of sculptures.
- **East Hill Grottoes**:
- **Kanjing Temple**: Famous for its 29 vivid statues of Tang Dynasty arhats, it is an important relic of Zen Buddhism.
- **Leigutai Three Caves**: Legend has it that Wu Zetian once celebrated here by beating drums, creating a rich historical atmosphere.

2. **Recommended Route**:
It is suggested to first visit the West Hill Grottoes (approx. 2-3 hrs), cross the Manshui Bridge to the East Hill Grottoes (1 hr), and finally visit Xiangshan Temple and Bai Garden (the tomb of Bai Juyi).

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### **5. Cultural Experiences and In-Depth Activities**
1. **Guided Tours**:
- The scenic area offers **audio guides** or human guides (approx. CNY 200/session), which are recommended for understanding the historical stories behind the Buddha statues.
- **Exhibition Hall**: Showcases Buddhist art and archaeological findings, ideal for culture enthusiasts.

2. **Special Activities**:
- **Immersive Experiences**: New in 2025 are the "Digital Repatriation of Lost Relics" and "3D Printing Restoration" projects, using technology to recreate the original appearance of the grottoes.
- **Educational Programs**: Designed for teenagers to explore grotto art and Buddhist culture.

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### **6. Food Recommendations**
- **Luoyang Water Banquet**: A banquet featuring soup dishes, with "Peony Swallow's Nest" and "Continuous Soup Meat Slices" being highly recommended.
- **Snacks**: Beef soup, scallion pancakes, and tofu pudding can be enjoyed at stalls around the scenic area.

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### **7. Important Notes**
1. **Physical Preparation**: The scenic area has steep steps, so comfortable athletic shoes are recommended. Allow ample time for your visit.
2. **ID and Booking**: Bring your ID card and purchase tickets online in advance. Save a screenshot of your ticket.
3. **Avoid Peak Hours**: During holidays, it is advisable to enter the park before 8am or visit on a working day.

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### **8. Nearby Attractions**
- **White Horse Temple**: The first ancient Buddhist temple in China, located about 40 mins by car from the Longmen Grottoes. A day trip can be arranged.
- **Luoyang Museum**: Free admission, offering an in-depth understanding of the history of the ancient capital of thirteen dynasties.