Henan offers more than just the Longmen Grottoes!

Check out the Gongyi Grottoes in Zhengzhou❗️ This artistic gem from the Northern Wei Dynasty has weathered the storms of a thousand years, yet it still exudes a unique charm. Every brick and tile, every niche and statue, silently tells stories of the past. 🎨The statues inside the grottoes are exquisite. Each Buddha's face is meticulously carved, with compassionate and profound eyes, as if gazing at the changing world. The Emperor and Empress Worshipping Buddha image is particularly striking, with lifelike figures and smooth, natural lines, vividly depicting a royal Buddhist ceremony of the time. One can't help but marvel at the ancient artisans' superb skills. Compared to the popular Longmen Grottoes, this place is free from crowds of tourists, allowing you to stroll at your leisure and experience the tranquility and solemnity. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground, creating a breathtaking contrast with the ancient grottoes. The only downside is the inconvenient transportation. Driving is recommended. It took us nearly an hour and a half to get there from downtown Zhengzhou. If you have enough time, I also recommend visiting the Northern Song Imperial Tombs in the nearby wheat fields.