As the New Year dawned, thousands of tourists flocked to the Longmen Grottoes in Luoyang, central China’s Henan Province, to witness the majestic Lushena Buddha illuminated in a radiant glow. The ancient statue, a centerpiece of the UNESCO World Heritage site inscribed in 2000, was bathed in soft lighting as part of special festivities marking the Year of the Dragon.
The Longmen Grottoes, carved along both banks of the Yi River, house one of the largest collections of Chinese art dating back to the Northern Wei (386–534) and Tang (618–907) dynasties. The Lushena Buddha, an iconic 17-meter-high statue, stood resplendent as visitors gathered, many pausing in awe before the serene expression etched into the limestone.
“Seeing the Lushena Buddha illuminated like this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Li Wei, a tourist from Beijing. “It brings a new dimension to the historical and cultural significance of this place.”
The special lighting of the Lushena Buddha is part of a series of events aimed at promoting cultural heritage and boosting tourism in the region. Local authorities have organized exhibitions, traditional performances, and interactive workshops to engage visitors in the rich history of the grottoes.
“We want to offer an immersive experience that connects people with our ancient culture,” explained Zhao Ming, a representative of the Longmen Grottoes management committee. “The illuminated Lushena Buddha symbolizes enlightenment and hope for the New Year.”
The Year of the Dragon, considered the most auspicious in the Chinese zodiac, has added to the enthusiasm. Many believe it heralds prosperity and good fortune, drawing even larger crowds eager to start the year with blessings from such a revered site.
Beyond the celebrations, experts emphasize the importance of preserving the Longmen Grottoes. Ongoing conservation efforts are crucial to protect the thousands of statues, inscriptions, and caves from environmental and human-induced damage.
“These relics are invaluable to understanding China’s artistic and religious history,” noted Professor Yang Chen from Luoyang University’s Department of Archaeology. “We must ensure they endure for future generations.”
As night fell, the soft glow around the Lushena Buddha continued to captivate visitors, a luminous beacon of China’s enduring cultural legacy. The New Year festivities at Longmen Grottoes not only celebrate the past but also inspire hope for the future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
