I thought Xi'an in Shaanxi was already beautiful, until I visited Luoyang in Henan and realized...

Exploring the Divine Capital Luoyang! Ultimate 2-Day 1-Night In-Depth Travel Guide Luoyang, this divine capital carrying millennia of history, holds countless surprises waiting to be discovered! Follow this carefully curated 2-day 1-night itinerary to embark on a magical journey through time. Itinerary Plan Day 1: Touching Historical Relics, Encountering the Night Charm of Tang Dynasty - Morning: Longmen Grottoes (Ticket: ¥90) - As a must-visit treasure in Luoyang, it's highly recommended to arrive before 8 am when there are fewer tourists, allowing for a more leisurely appreciation of the grotto art. The West Hill Grottoes are the essence, and the majestic Vairocana Buddha is not to be missed—don't forget to take plenty of photos! With numerous stone steps in the scenic area, comfortable shoes are a must, and sun protection is crucial as there's little shade. After visiting, cross the bridge to Xiangshan Mountain, where you'll find Bai Juyi's former residence, ancient temples, and the historically rich Chiang-Soong residence—stroll through and feel the weight of history. - Noon: Taste Luoyang Water Banquet - A traditional local feast, the Luoyang Water Banquet is a must-try. Recommended dishes include the exquisitely shaped Peony Swallow Dish, resembling a blooming peony with a spicy and sour taste, and the crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside Fried Meatballs with delicious broth. The average cost per person is around ¥50–80. - Afternoon: Luoyang Ancient Tombs Museum (Free, requires advance booking) - For an immersive experience of ancient burial culture, this is the perfect choice. Renting an audio guide (¥30) is recommended to delve deeper into the stories behind each tomb. Wandering through the museum feels like traveling through time, experiencing ancient life and burial customs. - Evening: Tianzijialiu Museum (Ticket: ¥30) - A relatively niche but awe-inspiring museum. The "Tianzijialiu" chariot pit showcases the grandeur of ancient imperial transportation, leaving visitors in awe of royal luxury. Though small (about 30 minutes to explore), every detail is worth savoring. - Night: Yingtianmen (Ticket: ¥60) + Luoyi Ancient City (Free) - Yingtianmen's light show is spectacular (every Friday and Saturday at 8 pm), with dazzling lights illuminating the ancient walls, recreating the splendor of the Tang Dynasty. Climb the tower for a panoramic night view of Luoyang—every shot is postcard-worthy. Luoyi Ancient City lights up at 7:30 pm, perfect for renting a Hanfu outfit and transforming into an elegant Tang Dynasty maiden, wandering through the ancient streets and soaking in the romantic, poetic atmosphere. The night scenery here is a photographer's paradise. Day 2: Cultural Charms and Culinary Delights - Morning: White Horse Temple (Ticket: ¥35) - As China's first ancient Buddhist temple, it features architectural styles from China, India, Thailand, and Myanmar. Stroll through the serene temple grounds, with the exotic buildings serving as perfect photo backdrops—every corner offers unique shots. - Noon: Luoyang Museum (Free, requires booking) - A comprehensive museum blending history, art, and culture, it houses rich collections. The "Northern Wei Clay Sculpture Buddha Face" in the Treasure Hall is a highlight, with its delicate craftsmanship and mysterious smile. Renting an audio guide (¥20) and allocating about 2 hours is recommended to appreciate the artifacts and delve into Luoyang's long history. - Evening: Cross Street Night Market - As night falls, the Cross Street Night Market comes alive with a variety of delicious snacks. For around ¥30 per person, you can feast on local specialties like crispy skewers, fragrant grilled gluten, and refreshing fried yogurt. Food Recommendations - Soups: Luoyang's soup culture is profound. Besides beef and donkey meat soup, mutton soup is exceptional. Start your day with a steaming bowl paired with freshly baked pancake strips for warmth and satisfaction. - Snacks: Don't miss the spicy and savory Hulatang or the golden, flaky Youxuan'er (crispy layered pancake). - Desserts: Try osmanthus cake—soft, sweet, and fragrant—or refreshing sour plum juice to cool off after a day of exploration. Accommodation Suggestions For convenient night exploration, choose hotels near Yingtianmen or Luoyi Ancient City. Many Han-style B&Bs and hotels start at around ¥200/night, offering both convenience and immersion in Luoyang's ancient charm. Tips - Transportation: Luoyang's transport is convenient. Combine subway and taxi rides, with taxi fares between attractions usually under ¥15. - Hanfu Rental: The area around Luoyi Ancient City is ideal for renting Hanfu, with many shops offering diverse styles. Arrive early to secure your favorite outfit. - Tickets: Some attractions like White Horse Temple and Longmen Grottoes support online ticket purchases, but carrying some cash is advisable. Most other attractions allow advance online booking for convenience. Pack your bags and set off for the Divine Capital Luoyang! This 2-day 1-night journey will surely make you fall in love with this enchanting city!