The Leshan Grand Buddha
After spending a good and resourceful night sleep at the 'quiet hotel' in Emeishan, we took a bus through the 'transfer centre for tourist' for a 45 min ride to Leshan. Half journey, the driver told us to board a public bus, so we complied without asking too many questions. Nobody actually speaks English anyway. Most people can only say 'Hello' and giggle when you reply.
Journey to Leshan
Leshan is famous for its huge riverside cliff-carving of Buddha - The Leshan Grand Buddha (乐山大佛). A 71-metre high sculpture carved out of a large cliff and the largest and tallest Buddha statue in the world.
Before heading to the Grand Buddha, as we were waiting for our fellow tourists to leave, we explored the park: the various temples and shrines scattered about and the remarkable Haoshang bridge further down the old fishing village. Sadly, the village has become a tourist trap where you can eat (local products?) and buy souvenirs.
The Grand Buddha
As we approached the Grand Buddha, most visitors were gone. We could, at our own pace, snake down the narrow stone steps leading to the base of the Leshan Grand Buddha. The view from below was breathtaking. We felt like ants walking next to gigantic toes.
Lost on the Way Back
After spending the afternoon in the park and enjoying the view, we went back by public buses. It wasn't easy. We got help from locals and a gentleman even paid for our bus as we ran out of small money. Unfortunately, we got lost and ended back at the train station where we started two hours earlier. So, we gave up and took a train to Emeishan. From there, our bed was not too far...
Visiting the Leshan Grand Buddha
- Located 45 minutes by bus from Emeishan - accessible via tourist transfer center or public buses
- The Leshan Grand Buddha (乐山大佛) is a 71-meter tall sculpture - the world's largest and tallest stone Buddha statue
- Carved out of a cliff face at the confluence of three rivers during the Tang Dynasty (started in 713 AD)
- Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds - the narrow stone steps down to the base get very congested
- Best views from the base and from the cliff walkway - allow 2-3 hours to explore the entire site
- The park includes various temples, shrines, and the Haoshang bridge over the old fishing village
- The old fishing village has become a tourist trap - expect souvenir shops and tourist restaurants
- Getting back: Public bus system can be confusing - ask locals for help or consider taking a taxi/train
- Bring small change for public buses - friendly locals may help if you run out!
- English is rarely spoken - learn basic Chinese phrases or use translation apps
Note:
Pin These Moments
🗿 Grand Buddha
Standing at the base of the world's largest Buddha statue - a 71-meter UNESCO masterpiece carved into a cliff!
📿 Ancient Wonder
Walking down narrow stone steps to reach the feet of the Tang Dynasty's most impressive creation
🏛️ UNESCO Heritage
Exploring the Leshan Grand Buddha (乐山大佛) - the world's tallest pre-modern statue
Have you visited the Leshan Grand Buddha? Did you walk down to the base or view it from above? How did you navigate the public transportation back? Share your Leshan experiences!