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The Longmen Grottoes stretch for a kilometre along the Yi River cliffs in Luoyang, a UNESCO World Heritage site carved over 400 years from the Northern Wei to the Tang dynasty. With over 100,000 Buddhist statues, it is one of China's most awe-inspiring ancient sites. Our private guide brings the carvings to life and handles all logistics, so you can focus on the wonder.
Carving began in 493 AD when Emperor Xiaowen of the Northern Wei moved his capital to Luoyang. Over the next four centuries, more than 100,000 statues and 2,800 inscriptions were chiselled into the limestone cliffs. The site flourished under Empress Wu Zetian of the Tang, who sponsored the colossal Vairocana Buddha, completed in 675 AD. Unlike the more remote Yungang Grottoes, Longmen sits just 12 km from Luoyang, making it accessible for a half-day trip. Its art reflects the evolution of Chinese Buddhist sculpture from the slender, Indian-influenced style of the Northern Wei to the fuller, more naturalistic Tang aesthetic.
The grottoes are divided between West Hill and East Hill, with the Yi River flowing between them. West Hill holds the majority of the major caves, including the Fengxian Temple with its 17-metre Vairocana Buddha, while East Hill offers quieter caves and a panoramic view of the West Hill complex. The site also includes the Xiangshan Temple and the tomb of Tang poet Bai Juyi. A visit here pairs perfectly with the nearby White Horse Temple, China's first Buddhist temple, and the ancient Luoyang Museum. For those interested in Chinese history and art, Longmen is unmissable.
From Luoyang, take a taxi or DiDi (about 30 minutes, ¥30–40) to the Longmen Grottoes visitor centre. Public bus 53 or 71 also goes there (¥1–2). If arriving by high-speed rail, Luoyang Longmen Station is just 4 km away; a taxi takes 10 minutes. We recommend visiting in the morning to avoid crowds, then returning to Luoyang for lunch. Our guide can arrange a private car to pick you up from your hotel and drop you at the station afterwards.
Admission is ¥90 (including West Hill, East Hill, and Xiangshan Temple). Opening hours: 8:00–18:00 (peak season, Mar–Oct), 8:00–17:30 (low season). Book online in advance via the official WeChat account or Trip.com; foreign passports are accepted. Payment at the gate can be made via WeChat Pay or Alipay linked to an international card, but cash is also accepted.
The best time to visit is spring (April–May) or autumn (September–October) when temperatures are mild and the scenery is lush. Avoid weekends and Chinese public holidays. Early morning (right at opening) offers the softest light for photography and fewer tour groups. Late afternoon also provides beautiful golden-hour illumination on the cliffs, but be mindful of closing time.
A thorough visit takes 3 to 4 hours, including West Hill, East Hill, and Xiangshan Temple. If you rush, you can see the highlights in 2 hours, but we recommend allowing ample time.
Yes, there are English signs at major caves, and audio guides in English can be rented. Our private guides provide fluent English commentary and can tailor the tour to your interests.
Foreign credit cards are not directly accepted at the ticket window, but you can link your card to WeChat Pay or Alipay to pay. Alternatively, bring cash in CNY. Our guide can assist with payment if needed.
The main paths are paved but include slopes and stairs, so wheelchair access is limited. The visitor centre and some viewing areas are accessible, but the caves themselves are not fully wheelchair-friendly.
Tell us your dates, group size and preferences — a dedicated consultant will reach out within 24 hours.