China Travel Navigator & Toolkit

White Horse Temple, located in Luoyang, Henan Province, is recognized as China's first Buddhist temple, established in 68 AD during the Eastern Han Dynasty. Founded after Emperor Ming's dream of a golden figure, it symbolizes the introduction of Buddhism to China via two Indian monks and a white horse carrying scriptures. The temple blends Chinese and Indian architectural styles, housing relics like the Sutra of Forty-Two Chapters. A UNESCO-associated site, it attracts pilgrims and tourists with its serene courtyards, international Buddhist halls (Thailand, India, Myanmar), and annual Peony Festival events.

Luoyi Ancient City, located in Luoyang's Old Town, is a meticulously restored historical district showcasing 3,000+ years of Chinese civilization. This free-admission site features Tang-Song dynasty architecture, illuminated nightscapes, and cultural landmarks like Wenfeng Pagoda. Renowned for its immersive Hanfu experiences and intangible heritage displays, it blends ancient charm with modern tourism.

Laojun Mountain Scenic Area, located in Luoyang, Henan, is a UNESCO-listed Taoist sacred site and natural wonder. Known as the "World's Number One Immortal Mountain," it features 2,217-meter peaks, 1.9-billion-year-old geological formations, and golden-roofed temples. Highlights include the Vairocana Buddha statue, marble "slippery peak forests," and seasonal cloud seas. AAAAA-rated, it blends 2,000+ years of Taoist heritage with hiking trails and cable cars.

The Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Luoyang, Henan, are a masterpiece of Chinese Buddhist art. Carved between the 5th and 10th centuries, the site features over 2,300 caves, 110,000 statues, and 2,800 inscriptions along the Yi River. Highlights include the 17.14-meter Vairocana Buddha and the Binyang Caves, reflecting the evolution of sculpture from Northern Wei austerity to Tang Dynasty grandeur.