Mt. Leshan(乐山大佛) Travel Guide
Nov 09, 2024
by orient china travel
General Introduction
Mt. Leshan, located in Leshan City, Sichuan Province, China, is a world-renowned tourist attraction. The Leshan Giant Buddha, carved into the western river cliff face of Lingyun Mountain in Mt. Leshan, is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese stone carving art. It was included by UNESCO on the list of World Heritage Sites in 1996.
Location and Access
- Location: It is situated in the city of Leshan, which is about two hours' drive from Chengdu.
- Transportation:
- By air: The nearest major airport is Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport. From the airport, you can take a shuttle bus, a train, or a taxi to Leshan.
- By train: There are regular train services to Leshan Railway Station. It is convenient to reach the mountain from the railway station by public transportation or taxi.
- By car: If you are driving, you can follow the relevant road signs to reach Mt. Leshan. There are parking areas available near the scenic spot.
Highlights of Mt. Leshan
- The Leshan Giant Buddha: Standing 71 meters tall, it is the largest carved stone Buddha statue in China. The Buddha's face is serene and solemn, and the carving is extremely exquisite. The statue was built over 90 years starting from the early years of the Tang Dynasty (713 AD). What makes it even more remarkable is its complex drainage system made of hidden gutters and channels, which has helped the statue remain intact despite the passage of time2.
- Scenic Surroundings: The area around the Leshan Giant Buddha is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. The mountains and rivers form a magnificent landscape, and the lush vegetation adds to the charm of the place. There are also ancient temples and pavilions nearby, which are full of historical and cultural atmosphere.
What to See and Do
- Viewing the Giant Buddha Up Close: You can choose to walk along the paths and stairs to reach the feet of the Giant Buddha, experiencing its grandeur up close. Along the way, you can appreciate the detailed carvings and the hard work of the ancient craftsmen.
- Boat Tour: Taking a boat tour on the river in front of the Buddha allows you to view the Giant Buddha from a different perspective and enjoy the panoramic view of the statue and the surrounding scenery. It is a great way to take beautiful pictures.
- Visit Nearby Temples and Cultural Sites: There are several ancient temples and cultural sites near Mt. Leshan, such as Lingyun Temple. Visiting these places can help you better understand the religious and cultural background of the area.
Tips for Tourists
- Ticket Information: The ticket prices for visiting Mt. Leshan may vary depending on different visiting routes (such as walking to the Buddha or taking a boat tour). It is advisable to check the official website or local tourist information centers for the most up-to-date ticket prices.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are the best seasons to visit Mt. Leshan, with pleasant weather and suitable temperatures for sightseeing. However, the scenic spot may be crowded during public holidays and weekends, so it is better to plan your trip in advance.
- Clothing and Equipment: Wear comfortable shoes as there will be a fair amount of walking. Bring sunscreen, hats, and water to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated, especially in summer.
- Respect the Site: When visiting Mt. Leshan, respect the cultural relics and the environment. Do not scribble or damage the scenic spot, and follow the management regulations of the scenic area.