Luoyang, formerly romanized as Loyang, is a city located in the confluence area of Luo River and Yellow River in Central China. It is a prefecture-level city in western Henan province. It borders the provincial capital of Zhengzhou to the east, Pingdingshan to the southeast, Nanyang to the south, Sanmenxia to the west, Jiyuan to the north, and Jiaozuo to the northeast.Situated on the central plain of China, Luoyang is one of the cradles of Chinese civilization, and is one of the Four Great Ancient Capitals of China.
The name "Luoyang" originates from the city's location on the north or sunny ("yang") side of the Luo River. Since the river flows from west to east and the sun is to the south of the river, the sun always shines on the north side of the river.
The greater Luoyang area has been sacred ground since the late Neolithic period. In 25 AD, Luoyang was declared the capital of the Eastern Han Dynasty on November 27 by Emperor Guangwu of Han. For several centuries, Luoyang was the focal point of China. During the North Song Dynasty, Luoyang was the 'Western Capital' and birthplace of Zhao Kuangyin, the founder of the Song Dynasty. It served as a prominent culture center, housing some of the most important philosophers. During the Jin Dynasty, Luoyang was Middle Capital.
Luoyang has a monsoon climate of medium latitudes with four distinct seasons, while mean annual temperature is 14.86°C (58.748°F).
Luoyang is a famous tourism spots and cultural city in China. The Longmen Grottoes south of the city were listed on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites in November 2000. The Luoyang Museum features ancient relics dating back to the Xia, Shang, and Zhou dynasties. The total number of exhibits on display is 1,700. Luoyang is famed for its Water Banquet, which consists of 8 cold and 16 warm dishes all cooked in various broths, gravies, or juices.
With convenient transportation, Luoyang is the location of Henan University of Science and Technology. There is one airport, three main train stations and many buses to many cities in China in Luoyang City.
Population: 3.69 million
Temperature: average 14.86°C (58.748°F)
