Luoyang Culture and history
		Located in the west of Henan Province, Luoyang has a history of over 3000 years. It is one of the six ancient capital cities of China. Archaeologists have confirmed that Luoyang was the capital during the reign of 96 emperors in 13 dynasties over 1500 years. As a famous historical and cultural city, Luoyang has many historic relics. The ruins of the ancient city of Luoyang dating back to the Sui (581-618 AD) and Tang (618-907 AD) dynasties are still visible. The White Horse Temple (Baima Temple) was originally established by the Han Dynasty in 68 AD, when Buddhism started to spread. The well-preserved temple was the first Buddhist temple in China. Longmen Grottoes represent the peak of Buddhist cave art. The Northern Wei Dynasty began work on the grottoes in 493 AD. Over the next 400 years, a great number of niches, inscribed stone tablets, as well as Buddhist pagodas, images, and statues were carved into the cliff walls on the banks of the Yi River. The carvings still exist today. Luoyang became the country's peony cultivation and trade center during the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1297 AD). It has been famous for the beautiful flowers since that time. The peonies are in full blossom every year from April to May. Well-known traditional handicrafts include tri-colored glazed pottery (Tang Sancai), palace lanterns, and bronze wares.