Leshan Giant Buddha - A Must Visit Place
The Leshan Giant Buddha is situated on the cliffs of Mount Lingyun in Sichuan Province, China, and stands as a monumental testament to human ingenuity and religious devotion. Carved during the Tang Dynasty in the 8th century, this colossal statue is recognized as the largest stone Buddha in the world, with a height of 71 meters (233 feet). Buddha is located where the three rivers Min River, Dadu River, and Qingyi River meet (three of them flow into the Yangtze River). In the busy season, the entrance fee is fixed at 90 RMB.
You should not miss the chance to see the Leshan Giant Buddha when you're on a Chengdu tour. Leshan City is an hour's drive from Chengdu and it is known as the Leshan Giant Buddha.
The legend about Leshan Giant Buddha
Due to the three rivers, which caused the dangerous fast-flowing water here, the government of Tang dynasty ordered the Buddha to pray for peace for the boats. The work to build the Giant Leshan Buddha started in 713 A. D. and it took 90 years to complete. Why was the Giant Buddha built in there? A tale spread in Leshan city: long long ago, once the boats passed through the intersection of three rivers, the monster who lived inside the river would cause trouble by raising the tides, and many died because of this dangerous behavior. However, a monk called Hai Tong used a spell to repel the attack from the monster when he arrived in Leshan. In order to keep peace forever, Hai Tong organized the natives to build the Leshan Giant Buddha.
You can't imagine that a statue would close its eyes, but certainly, it happened with the Leshan Giant Buddha. In 1962, millions of people who died of famine floated in front of the Buddha, after one night, natives were surprised as the Buddha closed its eyes even though it is usually open (the image is shown below). When you see the bright light around a Leshan Giant Buddha's head, you are lucky because in Buddhism this is an auspicious sign all your pray may come true!
The Significance of Leishan Buddha
The Leshan Giant Buddha is deeply loved by both people who go on religious pilgrimages and those who appreciate art. It stands as a symbol of peace and the beautiful connection between people and the environment. In 1996, it earned a special spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list because of its importance.
Around the Giant Buddha, there's a wonderful mix of culture, history, and nature that visitors can explore. The area is filled with old temples, smaller Buddha statues, and beautiful green areas that make the place just as appealing as the giant statue itself. All these natural and historical spots come together to create a peaceful and uplifting place. This makes the Leshan Giant Buddha a top spot for anyone wanting to dive into China's rich cultural history and enjoy the everlasting beauty of its natural surroundings.
The Leshan Giant Buddha Park and Surrounding Attractions
When you are visiting the Giant Buddha it’s recommended to visit other attractions nearby. The area surrounding the Buddha offers a variety of attractions that complement the grandeur of the colossal statue, making a visit here a rich, multi-faceted experience.
Visitors always walk along the Lingyun plank road which has 217 steps to the giant Buddha at the bottom. It's also better to see the Buddha from up close than to take a boat and look at it from a distance. Just don't forget to take photos of the Leshan Giant Buddha.
Mount Emei Scenic Area
Right next to the Leshan Giant Buddha, you'll find the Mount Emei Scenic Area, a stunning display of natural beauty. This place is like a green wonderland, filled with thick forests that are home to all sorts of animals, some of which are very rare and need to be protected. Scattered across the mountain are old temples and monasteries, which let visitors peek into the deep Buddhist traditions of China. The mix of these peaceful spiritual places with the breathtaking views of nature makes Mount Emei an amazing spot for anyone who loves the outdoors or is looking for a spiritual journey.
Historical Temples: Wuyou Temple and Lingyun Temple
The Wuyou Temple and Lingyun Temple are inside the Buddha park. The Wuyou Temple is a peaceful place where you can enjoy amazing views of the nature around you. It's a great spot for thinking quietly or taking beautiful photos. The Lingyun Temple is close to the Leshan Giant Buddha and acts as a starting point for visitors to learn more about the giant statue. It tells you about the history and the deep spiritual meaning behind the Buddha. Both temples have a lot of history and are home to cultural gems like detailed sculptures and old writings. They give you a closer look into the Buddhist traditions of the region.
Exploring Smaller Carved Buddhas and Statues
Besides the impressive Leshan Giant Buddha, there are many smaller carvings and statues all around, each holding its own story and meaning. These little figures are hidden in the cliffs and caves near the big statue, waiting for visitors to find them and uncover the beautiful religious art spread throughout the area. This collection of sacred carvings adds to the calm and spiritual feeling of the park, making the whole place feel more peaceful and special.
Tips for Visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha
Practical Advice for Travelers
Best Times to Visit: Avoid visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha in the summer. Summers are hot and crowded, while winters are less crowded but cold. The ideal times to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha are in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its best.
Ticketing Information: Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the park or online in advance to avoid long lines. It's recommended to check the official website or contact local tour operators for the latest ticket prices and opening hours.
Tour Options: Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the Leshan Giant Buddha. Tours are available in various languages and often include visits to nearby attractions.
Tips for a Fulfilling Visit
Viewpoints for Photos: For the best photos of the Giant Buddha, head to the viewing platform across the river, where you can capture the entire statue in one shot. The boat tours offer another great perspective.
Avoiding Crowds: To avoid the crowds, try to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Weekdays are typically less crowded than weekends and holidays.
Exploring Local Cuisine and Accommodations
Local Cuisine: Before you leave Leshan City, it is highly recommended to tasty local food - Cold Pot Fish (冷锅鱼 Lěng Guō Yú). WindhorseTour can organize your visit to the Leshan Giant Buddha when you travel to Chengdu.
Accommodations: There are various accommodation options near the Leshan Giant Buddha, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Many offer the warm hospitality Sichuan is known for. Staying nearby will give you a head start to beat the crowds and enjoy the serene mornings at the site.
Visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha is an unforgettable experience, enriched by the stunning natural beauty, profound history, and vibrant local culture of Sichuan. With the right preparation and insights, you can make the most of your journey to this remarkable destination.
Final words
Visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha is an amazing experience. You will feel the rich culture of Sichuan and breathtaking landscapes. From the spiritual journey down the 217 steps to the Buddha to tasting the local Cold potfish, every moment here is unforgettable. Remember to explore the serene Wuyou and Lingyun Temples, and don't miss the smaller carvings that sprinkle the area with more tales and tranquility. The best times to visit are spring and fall for the perfect weather and fewer crowds. And while you're here, diving into the spicy delights of Sichuan cuisine and enjoying the local hospitality will complete your experience. With a bit of planning, your trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site can be as smooth as it is memorable. So, grab your camera, and let's explore the wonders of Leshan!