Luoyang, nestled in the heart of China, gets its name from its location on the south bank of the Luo River. It's referred to as "China" in the inscription on the He Zun (He Zun), and boasts a history of civilization spanning over 5,000 years, over 4,000 years of city construction, and over 1,500 years as a capital. It's one of the cradles of Chinese civilization, the eastern starting point of the Silk Road, and the center of the Grand Canal during the Sui and Tang dynasties. Thirteen dynasties successively made their capitals here, including the Xia, Shang, Western Zhou, Eastern Zhou, Eastern Han, Cao Wei, Western Jin, Northern Wei, Sui, Tang (including the Wu Zhou), Later Liang, Later Tang, and Later Jin dynasties. It's China's oldest established capital, with the longest reign and the most dynasties. It's one of the world's four holy cities, where Taoism originated, Confucianism flourished, and Buddhism first spread. Five major capital sites, including the Erlitou Ruins, the Yanshi Shang City, the Eastern Zhou Royal City, the Han and Wei Ancient City, and the Sui and Tang Luoyang City, are home to six World Cultural Heritage sites: the Longmen Grottoes, the Grand Canal, and the Silk Road. It's the only Chinese city designated a "World Cultural City" by the United Nations. As of the end of 2023, there are 5 5A-level scenic spots, 30 4A-level scenic spots, 27 3A-level scenic spots, and 5 2A-level scenic spots. It has won the titles of China's Excellent Tourist City, National Garden City, National Sanitary City, and National Civilized City.
Folk Festivals
The Luoyang Peony Festival began in 1983. In 2008, the Luoyang Peony Festival was designated a national intangible cultural heritage by the State Council. In 2010, the festival was renamed the "China Luoyang Peony Culture Festival."