Luoyang is one of China's Four Great Ancient Capitals, with over 1,500 years of capital history and 13 dynasties having established their capitals here. It is one of the birthplaces of Chinese civilization and the eastern starting point of the Silk Road.
Core attractions: Longmen Grottoes (UNESCO World Heritage site, one of China's three major grottoes, featuring the 17.14-meter Vairocana Buddha), White Horse Temple (China's first state-built Buddhist temple, known as the "Cradle of Chinese Buddhism"), Luoyang Peonies ("Only peonies deserve the true national beauty," the annual Peony Culture Festival in April-May attracts visitors worldwide), and Laojun Mountain (a Taoist sacred mountain famous for spectacular sea-of-clouds sunrises).
Don't miss local delicacies like Luoyang Water Banquet and peony cakes.
