Leshan Giant Buddha Travel Guide

Overview of the Attraction The Leshan Giant Buddha, located at No. 2435 Lingyun Road, Shizhong District, Leshan City, Sichuan Province, is the world's tallest stone-carved seated Maitreya Buddha statue (standing at an impressive 71 meters!). This magnificent structure was meticulously carved during the Tang Dynasty over 90 years, creating a breathtaking sight built into the mountain. The Buddha sits atop Lingyun Mountain's Qixia Peak, overlooking the confluence of three rivers—Dadu River, Min River, and Qingyi River—making it a stunning spot for photos! Transportation 🚄🚌 From Chengdu: High-speed train: Take the train directly to Leshan Station, which takes about 50 minutes. Then transfer to K1 bus to reach the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area (approximately 30 minutes). Driving: Take the Chengdu-Leshan Expressway and exit at Leshan. Navigate to "Leshan Giant Buddha Tourist Center"—the journey takes about 2 hours. On holidays, it's recommended to leave early to avoid traffic jams. Tickets and Opening Hours 🎫 Tickets: Full ticket costs 80 RMB (includes Leshan Giant Buddha, Lingbao Pagoda, and Lingyun Temple). Students and seniors aged 60-64 can purchase half-price tickets for 40 RMB, while seniors over 65 and special groups enjoy free admission—great value! Opening hours: April 1 to October 7: 07:30-18:30 October 8 to March 31: 08:00-17:30 Tip: Book tickets online in advance to save waiting time. Recommended Itinerary 🗺 Nine-Bend Plank Road: Descend from the mountain top along the winding path to the Buddha's feet for the closest view of the giant statue. The entire journey feels ceremonial, though during holidays, you may need to queue for 1-2 hours. Lingyun Temple: A Tang Dynasty ancient temple with thriving incense offerings, perfect for experiencing Buddhist culture and Zen. Mahao Cliff Tombs: Explore the ancient Eastern Han cliff tombs and learn about burial customs—ideal for history enthusiasts. Tips ⚠️ Clothing: The plank road is steep, so wear sports shoes and carry a lightweight backpack. Safety: The platform near the Buddha's feet is close to the river—keep your belongings secure and be cautious not to drop your phone into the water! Avoid Crowds: The busiest time is 10:00-14:00. For better photos and fewer queues, consider the "Night Tour of Three Rivers" (requires an additional ticket), which offers a great atmosphere. Local Food Recommendations 🍲 Qiaojiao Beef: A must-try! Leshan's signature dish and intangible cultural heritage—"Feng Si Niang" in Leshan city is highly recommended. Sweet-Skin Duck: Crispy sugar-coated skin with tender duck meat—find the most authentic version in Suji Ancient Town. Enjoy the food and continue capturing beautiful scenery—it’s a perfect combo! Key Takeaways Book tickets online in advance—it’s crucial! The platform near the Buddha's feet is the best spot for photos, but be prepared for queues. If you have time, visit Qingyin Pavilion or Mount Emei’s Golden Summit for a 2-day, 1-night trip—it’s super relaxing! The Leshan Giant Buddha is a must-visit destination, offering a one-stop experience for photography, culture, and food!