Luoyang Longmen Grottoes represent some of the most historic and memorable Chinese Buddhist art. Here you will find thousands of statues. They are in close proximity to Luoyang in Henan, one of China’s remarkable provinces. Luoyang is home to Buddha’s statues as well as his disciples’. The 2, 345 caves consists of up to 100, 000 statues of 1 to 57feet (height) and 2, 500 stelae. The caves are a kilometer away from the cliff and stretch along river banks. The site is a true manifestation of what the artistic creativity bestowed upon humans, just as UNESCO denoted in their World Heritage List.
A 30-minute drive from Luoyang city and 12 kilometers of ground cover will land you in Longmen Grottoes. The site is featured among the top three most crucial sites in the great country of China. What makes it stand out is the Buddhist sumptuous carvings and sculptures. The east hill is the hub of Baijuyi’s Tomb in memory of the nation’s famous ancient poet and home to the Xiangshan Temple, while the west hill prides in the most caves and grottoes. It is nearly impossible to talk about world sculpture history without mentioning the Longmen Grottoes.
First grotto carvings took place about 1, 500 years ago and expanded through dynasties that succeeded the North Wei. Renovation over 500 years has led to expansion to create this one-of-a-kind prestigious cultural site that attracts tourists from within and outside of China. Fengxian Temple tops amongst the largest Luoyang Longmen Grottoes, at 41 meters in length and 36 meters width. The Vairocana Buddha statue remains the most outstanding in this Tang-Dynasty-built temple. Other notable caves include Wanfo Cave and Guyang Cave, which is tagged the earliest cave, with sculptures of diverse shapes representing the Gadhara style of art. Historical materials relating to art, religion and music can be found in Luoyang Longmen Grottoes.
