Thousand Buddha Rock

Introducing Thousand Buddha Rock

Thousand Buddha Caves is located 3 kilometers west of Jiajiang County, Leshan City, Sichuan Province. Jiajiang County was established during the Kaihuang period of the Sui Dynasty (593 AD) and is named for the natural beauty of "two mountains facing each other, a river flowing through them" to the northwest of the city. The Jiajiang Thousand Buddha Caves Scenic Area is located 3 kilometers west of Jiajiang County, at this very spot. In 2006, the Jiajiang Thousand Buddha Caves, a Tang Dynasty cultural relic, were approved by the State Council for inclusion in the sixth batch of the National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units.

Climate and best time to travel

Jiajiang has a mild, subtropical humid climate with abundant rainfall. The county's average annual temperature is 17.1°C, with the highest extreme temperature reaching 38.7°C on August 12, 2006, and the lowest extreme temperature reaching -4.2°C. The average annual sunshine hours are 1,156.3 hours, the average annual frost-free period is 307.9 days, and the average annual precipitation is 1,357 mm.

Tickets

30 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

6:00-21:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Thousand Buddha Rock

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Thousand Buddha Rock, located in Leshan, Sichuan, is famous for its collection of Buddhist rock carvings that date back to the Tang Dynasty. It holds great religious significance and has become an important cultural landmark for both locals and international visitors seeking to explore Buddhist history and art.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Thousand Buddha Rock is located in the western part of Leshan, Sichuan. It can be accessed by taxi or bus from the Leshan city center. The site is a short walk from the nearest public transport stops, making it accessible for those traveling by foot or local transportation.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open year-round, with typical visiting hours from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. Weekdays tend to be quieter compared to weekends.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance gate. It is recommended to buy tickets on-site, although some services may allow for online booking during peak seasons.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

It is not strictly necessary to book tickets in advance, but during peak travel seasons, it is advisable to book at least 1-2 days ahead to ensure entry, especially if you are visiting during national holidays or weekends.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring the Thousand Buddha Rock site can take around 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you wish to spend viewing the carvings, walking around the area, and taking in the surrounding landscapes.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The main highlight is the collection of Buddha carvings and statues on the rock face, particularly those of the Tang Dynasty. The surrounding caves, cliffs, and river views are also worth visiting. Don’t miss the scenic walk that leads up to the carvings.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and English, and can be arranged on-site. Audio guides may also be rented, and they are available in multiple languages, including Mandarin, English, and Japanese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the top of the hill, overlooking the carvings and the river. The rock carvings themselves are also great photo spots, particularly at sunrise or sunset when the light casts dramatic shadows on the carvings.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the entrance area and walking towards the rock carvings. Spend time viewing the Buddha carvings and take the path to the top for panoramic views. Finish by strolling around the nearby caves and taking in the river views.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Currently, night visits or light shows are not a regular feature at Thousand Buddha Rock. However, there may be occasional special tours or events during holidays, so it's worth checking ahead if you're planning to visit during such times.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can get crowded during weekends and Chinese public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays during the off-peak seasons, such as late autumn or winter.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and water stations, are available. There are also small shops where visitors can buy souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. There are food stalls near the entrance serving local food.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Thousand Buddha Rock has some steep areas and uneven paths, which may be difficult for elderly visitors or those with mobility challenges. However, children will enjoy the outdoor space and cultural exploration.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

While cash is accepted, mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly used in the area, and are more convenient than carrying cash. Credit cards are not widely accepted on-site.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and small cafes near the site offering local Sichuan cuisine, such as spicy hotpot and noodle dishes. The local food stalls are great for a quick snack or meal after exploring.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian food is widely available, especially in Sichuan, where dishes such as tofu and vegetable stir-fries are common. Vegan and halal food options may be more limited, but vegetarian dishes can be modified to suit dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a variety of accommodations nearby, including budget guesthouses and mid-range hotels in Leshan city. For more upscale options, you may need to stay in Leshan's downtown area or in nearby Chengdu.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Leshan Giant Buddha, Mount Emei, and the Fuhu Temple. All of these are relatively close and can easily be combined for a day trip from Thousand Buddha Rock.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops around Thousand Buddha Rock sell traditional handicrafts, local art, tea, and Buddhist-themed items. Hand-carved wooden statues and small Buddha figurines are popular purchases.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting, you can continue your trip by taxi, bus, or private car. Leshan Railway Station is a short ride away, and there are several bus services to nearby towns and Chengdu. For further travel, the high-speed rail from Leshan to Chengdu is convenient.