Binyang Cave

Introducing Binyang Cave

Binyang Cave, comprising the South, Middle, and North Caves, was built by Emperor Xuanwu of the Northern Wei Dynasty as a token of gratitude for his parents, Emperor Xiaowen and Empress Dowager Wenzhao. The excavation of the Middle Cave alone took 24 years, and its magnificent splendor surpasses all other Longmen Grottoes.

The main Buddha, Shakyamuni, sits in the center, his face slender and delicate, his expression kind and gentle, with a slight smile. His two disciples, Kasyapa and Ananda, and the Bodhisattvas Manjusri and Samantabhadra, stand on either side. Kasyapa appears mature and dignified, while Ananda is lively and cheerful, both appearing vivid and lifelike. The Buddha's clothing has evolved from the early Northern Wei dynasty's bare right shoulder and full-length style to a wide-sleeved robe, reflecting Emperor Xiaowen's policy of Sinicization in stone carving.

The ceiling of the cave is carved with a lotus canopy, surrounded by elegant celestial figures performing music and offerings. The inner walls of the cave entrance originally featured three layers of large relief carvings. The lower layers housed the famous "Emperor Worshiping Buddha" and "Empress Worshiping Buddha," each with its rigorous composition and exquisite carvings, making it a masterpiece of ancient Chinese sculpture.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate monsoon climate; Binyang Cave is located in the Xishan Grottoes. It is one of the caves built by Emperor Xuanwu of the Northern Wei Dynasty to do good deeds for his parents, Emperor Xiaowen and Empress Dowager Wenzhao. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Binyang South Cave, Binyang Middle Cave, Binyang North Cave, as well as the nearby Wanfo Cave and Qianxi Temple;

It is recommended to play for 1-2 hours

Tickets

120 yuan/person (included in the Longmen Grottoes scenic area)

Night tour ticket is 120 yuan/person, including: Xishan Grottoes, Xiangshan Temple

Attraction opening hours

February 1st - March 31st: 8:00-17:00, closing at 18:00;

April 1st - October 7th: 8:00-17:30, closing at 18:30;

October 8-31: 8:00-17:00, closing at 18:00;

November 1st - January 31st: 8:00-16:00, closing at 17:00.

Night Tour Hours (Xishan Grottoes, Xiangshan Temple): Open daily from April 8th to May 10th. Open every Friday and Saturday from May 11th to October 11th (open daily during Golden Week; closed in rainy weather): 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM (last admission at 9:30 PM). Lights on: 6:30 PM - 7:30 PM. Nighttime Clearance: 10:40 PM, Lights Off: 11:00 PM.

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Most Popular FAQs for Binyang Cave

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Binyang Cave is a historical Buddhist site in Luoyang, dating back to the Northern Wei Dynasty. It is known for its artistic and religious significance, housing numerous Buddhist statues and murals. The cave is a key example of early Chinese Buddhist architecture and art.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Binyang Cave is located in Luoyang, Henan Province. Visitors can reach it by taxi or private car from the city center. There are also bus services available that connect to the cave from the main transportation hubs in Luoyang.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Binyang Cave is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 40 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, though online booking may be available for peak seasons.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for most visits. However, it’s recommended to check availability during peak tourist seasons (e.g., Chinese holidays) or on special events.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Binyang Cave typically takes around 1-1.5 hours. This allows time to explore the cave's statues, murals, and surrounding area at a leisurely pace.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the detailed murals inside the cave, particularly those depicting Buddhist deities. The statues and carvings of various Buddhist figures are also noteworthy.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some English-speaking guides available on request. Audio guides may be provided in both Mandarin and English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Photography is best done around the main cave entrance, where visitors can capture the intricate details of the carvings and statues. The surrounding natural scenery also provides beautiful backdrops for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Begin by visiting the main cave where the largest statues are located. Then, take a walk around the cave's perimeter to appreciate the murals and smaller sculptures, ending with a leisurely stroll through the surrounding landscape.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not available at Binyang Cave, and there are no light shows or special tours. Daytime visits offer the best experience to view the sculptures and murals in natural light.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The cave can get crowded during weekends and national holidays. To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit during weekdays, preferably in the early morning hours.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are basic facilities available, including public toilets, drinking water stations, and small rest areas. However, food and large shops are not available inside the cave area.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site is generally accessible, with paved paths and a relatively easy walk to the cave. However, elderly or disabled visitors may find some parts of the surrounding area challenging due to uneven ground or stairs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted. Credit card payments are not commonly accepted on-site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no restaurants or cafes inside Binyang Cave. However, several local eateries and snack stalls can be found nearby in Luoyang city center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

While vegetarian and vegan options are available in nearby restaurants, halal food may be harder to find. It’s best to check in advance at local restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels in Luoyang city center, ranging from budget to mid-range. Staying in the city center offers easy access to the cave and other local attractions.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Longmen Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the White Horse Temple, one of China’s oldest Buddhist temples. These can be easily combined with a visit to Binyang Cave.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops near the cave sell small Buddhist-themed items, such as statues, incense, and local handicrafts. These make great mementos from the visit.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

To continue your trip, taxis or buses are available to other nearby attractions, such as the Longmen Grottoes or the city center. Private transport is recommended for convenience and comfort.