As dusk settles over Luoyang in Central China’s Henan province, the Yihe River catches the last light of day, creating a beautiful backdrop for an evening at the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After sunset, the ancient grottoes take on a magical atmosphere as soft lighting brings centuries-old Buddhist sculptures and intricate carvings gently out of the darkness. Wander along the pathways to Fengxian Temple, where nine monumental statues command attention, including the serene Vairocana Buddha. Carved more than 1,300 years ago during the Tang Dynasty (618-907), this masterpiece seems to gaze calmly across the river, offering a powerful glimpse into the artistry and spirituality of ancient China.
To make the experience even more memorable, dress in traditional Chinese attire hanfu and stroll among the carved niches, stepping into the elegance of Luoyang during the Tang Dynasty while capturing atmospheric photos against the illuminated grottoes. As night deepens, slow down beside the Yihe River and watch the shimmering reflections of the grottoes dance across the water. From masterful stone carvings to Tang-inspired cultural experiences and tranquil riverside views, the Longmen Grottoes after dark offer a captivating way to discover Luoyang’s ancient heritage from a whole new perspective.
Who it’s for:
Ideal for: Lovers of immersive history, spiritual connections, and the artful past. Perfect for culture enthusiasts armed with cameras and curiosity.
Not for: Those deterred by stairs or physical exertion, as the grottoes hug a rugged cliffside.
Best time to go
March-October nights promise an ethereal view as the stone guardians glow under cool lamps.
Don’t miss
See the Longmen Grottoes come alive after dark: Join a night tour and watch the ancient stone carvings and grottoes glow under carefully designed lighting, revealing a different side of this UNESCO-listed cultural treasure.
Stand before the majestic Vairocana Buddha at Fengxian Temple: Take a moment to admire the 17.14-meter-high seated Buddha, whose serene expression and graceful proportions make it one of the most iconic sculptures at the Longmen Grottoes.
Step into the Tang Dynasty through hanfu: Dress in traditional hanfu and wander among the intricately carved grotto niches, recreating the elegance of Luoyang during the Tang Dynasty while capturing memorable photos against the historical surroundings.
Watch twilight unfold along the Yihe River: As evening settles over Luoyang, stroll along the riverbank and take in the shimmering water, illuminated grottoes and softly glowing skyline for a tranquil end to your visit.
Before you go
1. Arrive in daylight to witness details only the sun reveals.
2. Comfy walking shoes are vital for navigating the stone steps that line the site.
3. Book night tour tickets in advance during peak visiting seasons.
Practical essentials
Longmen Grottoes
Address: No 13, Longmen Zhong Jie, Luolong district, Luoyang, Henan province
Opening hours:
March 1-Oct 31: 8 am-9 pm
Nov 1-Feb 28: 8 am-6 pm
Admission: 90 yuan ($13.40)/person
Getting there:
By car: Navigate to “Longmen Grottoes Northwest Service Area Parking Lot”(龙门石窟西北服务区停车场). From the Longmen exit of the Erenhot-Guangzhou Expressway (G55), it’s about a 1.5-kilometer drive.