Luoyang—History enthusiasts are increasingly drawn to Luoyang, the ancient capital of 13 dynasties. With over 5,000 years of civilization, nearly 4,000 years as an urban center, and 1,500 years as a capital, the city offers unparalleled historical depth.

A major draw is the legacy of Wu Zetian, China's one and only empress, who moved the capital here. Her transformative reign included creating new Chinese characters, streamlining government, encouraging public discourse, reducing taxes and labor burdens, and elevating women's status – all contributing significantly to the Tang dynasty's golden age.

The city's crown jewel is the UNESCO World Heritage Longmen Grottoes. Hailed as the "pinnacle of Chinese stone carving art," this 1.3-kilometer riverside complex features intricate Buddhist sculptures carved over 400 years across six dynasties. As a legendary woman, there's not a single confirmed portrait of her from history, so nobody truly knows what she looks like. But many people believe that the biggest statue at the Longmen Grottoes was carved in Wu Zetian's likeness. Is that so?

Ma Jialun of the Longmen Grottoes Research Institute explained: "Wu Zetian's broad forehead and full cheeks are key evidence linking her to this statue. But this Buddha statue was part of Fengxian Temple, built during Emperor Li Zhi's reign for his father Li Shimin. Some scholars believe this statue is likely to be a reference to Li Shimin or Li Zhi. It's unlikely to build something for his father with his wife's look. Perhaps people's fascination with Empress Wu Zetian and our romantic imaginations about her connect this legendary Buddha statue to her."

Luoyang has demonstrated its global appeal. A group of tourists from Pakistan exclaimed that Luoyang is a paradise on earth. Beyond the Grottoes, visitors immerse themselves in the city's vibrant atmosphere. The Luoyi Ancient City area transforms at night, illuminated by lanterns, with locals and tourists often donning traditional Hanfu clothing. Seeing this scene, the girl from Iran said excitedly: "I also want to try Hanfu, too."

However, Luoyang's turbulent history as a strategic battleground is also evident. Many ancient structures were lost to conflict, leaving relatively few visibly ancient buildings despite its long history as a capital. When I stood before the Wenfeng Pagoda, one of the city's oldest surviving monuments, a poignant reflection emerged, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the end of the World Anti-Fascist War. "More than anything, I wish for world peace, no more wars, so that our cultures and traditions can be safely passed down and preserved." Luoyang thus stands as a powerful testament to both China's glorious heritage and the enduring imperative of cultural preservation.