After a delightful breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the majestic **Yellow River Three Gorges**, a sprawling 40 square kilometers of natural splendor. This area is not only a World Geopark and a National 4A-level scenic spot but also a National Water Conservancy Scenic Area, recognized as one of China's most attractive destinations and a top ten hot spot in Henan.
Proceed to the ancient capital of Luoyang, a city steeped in history, to explore the **Longmen Grottoes**, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a treasure trove of Chinese stone carving art. The grottoes, initiated during the reign of Emperor Xiaowen of the Northern Wei Dynasty, were meticulously crafted over 400 years. Stretching for 1 kilometer, they house 2,345 caves, over 100,000 statues, and more than 2,800 inscriptions. Among them, the **Lushena Buddha** stands at an impressive 17.14 meters, and the **Fengxian Temple** is a paragon of Longmen's sculptural artistry.
Dinner will be a culinary journey through an upgraded version of the "Empress's Favorite Recipes—Luoyang Shui Xi Cuisine," a traditional feast that once graced the imperial table.
A special arrangement awaits you at the **Luoyang Peony Festival**, a celebration of the city's floral emblem, where the vibrant peonies are in full bloom, adding a touch of elegance and color to your visit.