Leshan Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Leshan, a city located in the Sichuan region of China, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. Nestled at the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers, Leshan is best known for its awe-inspiring Giant Buddha, which is the largest stone-carved Buddha statue in the world.

The main attraction, the Giant Buddha, stands tall at a staggering height of 71 meters, carved into the red sandstone cliffs of Mount Lingyun. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only a magnificent sight to behold but also a spiritual symbol that dates back to the Tang Dynasty. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of the statue's facial expressions and the flowing robes, as well as explore the surrounding lush greenery and serene atmosphere.

Aside from the Giant Buddha, Leshan is also a gateway to the stunning Mount Emei, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This sacred mountain is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient temples, and diverse flora and fauna. Hiking enthusiasts can embark on a journey to the summit, where they will be rewarded with panoramic views of mist-covered peaks, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls.

For those seeking a cultural experience, Leshan offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and traditions. The city is home to several ancient temples, such as the Lingyun Temple and Wuyou Temple, both of which showcase exquisite architecture and intricate Buddhist sculptures. Visitors can immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of these sacred sites, participate in meditation practices, or witness colorful religious ceremonies.

In addition to its historical and natural attractions, Leshan boasts a vibrant local food scene. Food lovers can savor authentic Sichuan cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spicy dishes. From hotpot to mapo tofu, the city's culinary offerings are sure to tantalize taste buds and leave visitors craving for more.

Local name: 乐山市 Population: 154.5 thous.Area: 4952.14 mi²Elevation: 1260 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 29°33'59"N, 103°45'54"E

Location

SichuanChina

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Leshan Top Attractions

Leshan Attractions - What to See and Explore

Leshan offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Leshan Giant Buddha, Wuyou Temple, Hongchunping Temple, Xiaoba Subdistrict. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Monuments and statues • Buddhist architecture
Leshan Giant Buddha
The Leshan Giant Buddha is a monumental statue carved into the cliffs of Mount Emei in the city of Leshan, China. Towering at 71 meters (233 feet) tall, this ancient sculpture is the largest stone Buddha in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting...
Temple • Buddhist architecture
Wuyou Temple
Wuyou Temple is a Buddhist temple located on the top of Mount Wuyou, in Shizhong District of Leshan, Sichuan, China. It is in the same area as the Leshan Giant Buddha and is the main and oldest temple in the area, being designated as Leshan's national key Buddhist temple.
Temple • Buddhist architecture
Hongchunping Temple
Hongchunping Temple is a Buddhist temple located on Mount Emei, in Emeishan City, Sichuan, China.

29°33'26"N • 103°44'14"E
Xiaoba Subdistrict
Xiaoba Subdistrict is a subdistrict in Shizhong District, Leshan, Sichuan, China. As of 2018, it has 6 residential communities under its administration.
29°33'55"N • 103°45'37"E
Haitang Subdistrict
Haitang Subdistrict is a subdistrict in Shizhong District of Leshan, Sichuan, China. As of 2020, it administers the following 17 residential communities: Yanwu Street Community Xujiabian Community Wenchanggong Community Wanghao'er Community Shengshui Street Community Beimenqiao...
Historical place
Leshan Giant Buddha
The Leshan Giant Buddha is a 71-metre tall stone statue, built between 713 and 803. It is carved out of a cliff face of Cretaceous red bed sandstones that lies at the confluence of the Min River and Dadu River in the southern part of Sichuan province in China, near the city of Leshan.
City
Shizhong District
Shizhong is a district of the city of Leshan, Sichuan Province, China. Leshan Normal University is located in the district.

Day trips

Leshan – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Leshan, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Jinding (Emeishan National Park), Wannian Temple (Emeishan National Park), Rongxian Giant Buddha.

26 milesW
Temple, Buddhist architecture
Jinding, Emeishan National Park
The Jinding, elevation 3,077 metres, is the main peak of Mount Emei, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sichuan, China. It is also a common name for the Buddhist Huazang Temple built on the summit. Jinding is the highest Buddhist temple in traditionally Han areas of China.
22 milesW
Temple, Buddhist architecture
Wannian Temple, Emeishan National Park
Wannian Temple is a Buddhist temple located at the foot of Camel Mountain Range of Mount Emei, in Emeishan City, Sichuan, China. It is one of the six earliest Buddhist temples on Mount Emei. The temple is situated at the foot of Camel Mountain Range, facing the Daping Temple, Niuxin Temple, Shisun Summit and Bomeng Summit in the front.
41 milesE
Monuments and statues
Rongxian Giant Buddha
The Rongxian Giant Buddha formerly romanized as Yong-hien or Hong-yien, is a 36.7-metre tall stone statue, built around 817, depicting Maitreya. It is 90 kilometres east of the Leshan Giant Buddha.
25 milesW
Temple, Buddhist architecture
Xixiang Chi, Emeishan National Park
Xixiang Chi, also known as Tianhua Chanyuan, is one of the most important Buddhist temples on Mount Emei in Emeishan City, Sichuan, China. The temple is located more than 2,000 metres above sea level.
17 milesSW
City
Shawan
Shawan District is a district of the city of Leshan, Sichuan Province, China. Shawan is located on the Dadu River around 40 km southwest from what was then called the city of Jiading, and now is the central urban area of the prefecture-level city of Leshan in Sichuan Province.