Mount Emei Golden Summit

Introducing Mount Emei's Golden Summit

The Golden Summit of Mount Emei, also known as Huazang Temple, is located on the main peak of Mount Emei in Sichuan Province, China. It is the end point of the Emei Mountain Tour and the place where the most temples and attractions are concentrated in Mount Emei. It is home to many famous places and is the essence of Emei.

The Golden Summit of Emei is adjacent to the Ten Thousand Buddha Summit at the top of Emei Mountain, with an altitude of 3,079 meters. Here, the mountains are high and the clouds are low, and the scenery is magnificent. Visitors can enjoy the sunrise, sea of ​​clouds and Buddha's light on the steep Sheshen Rock.

The temple boasts a golden hall, tile pillars, doors, windows, and walls all made of bronze mixed with gold. A central statue of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva is enshrined, flanked by thousands of smaller Buddhas. Carvings depicting the mountains and rivers of Sichuan are carved on the door walls, the craftsmanship breathtaking. When the morning sun shines on the summit, the golden hall gleams dazzlingly, a truly spectacular sight. Hence, it's called the "Golden Summit."

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical humid monsoon climate;

Mount Emei is suitable for all seasons, and the Golden Summit is best seen at sunrise.

Tickets

Included in the Mount Emei ticket

Peak season: 185 yuan/person; off-season: 110 yuan/person

Golden Summit Cableway

Peak season: 65 yuan/person for upward travel, 55 yuan/person for downward travel;

Off-season: 30 yuan/person for upward journey, 20 yuan/person for downward journey

Attraction opening hours

Peak season (May 1st - October 7th): 06:00-18:30

Off-season (October 8th - April 30th of the following year) 07:00-17:30

---

Most Popular FAQs for Mount Emei Golden Summit

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

Mount Emei is one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Golden Summit is the highest peak of Mount Emei, and it's an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists, home to ancient temples and statues, especially the 48-meter-high golden statue of Samantabhadra.

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

The Golden Summit is located in Mount Emei, in the Leshan region of Sichuan. To get there, you can take a bus or taxi from Leshan city to the Emei Shan base, then take a cable car or hike to the summit. The cable car is the quickest and most popular option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Mount Emei is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during spring and autumn for mild weather and clearer views. The Golden Summit can be accessed during daylight hours, generally from 6 AM to 6 PM, but sunrise and sunset views are especially spectacular.

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

The entrance fee for the Golden Summit is approximately 180 RMB, with additional charges for cable car rides. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, or online in advance through local travel platforms.

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

It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons (spring and autumn), to avoid long lines. Booking a few days in advance is sufficient.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It takes about 3-4 hours to explore the Golden Summit, including the ride to the summit, visits to the temples, and time for sightseeing. If you choose to hike, it may take longer, depending on your pace.

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

The must-see highlights include the giant golden statue of Samantabhadra, the Huayan Temple, the breathtaking panoramic views from the summit, and the mystical Cloud Sea. The summit also offers scenic walking paths around the temples and cliffs.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some may offer basic English. Audio guides are not widely available, but local guides can provide insightful information about the cultural and religious significance of the area.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are at the Golden Summit itself, where you can capture sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and the famous Cloud Sea. The area around the giant Buddha statue offers excellent photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by taking the cable car to the Golden Summit, visit the giant statue of Samantabhadra, then explore the Huayan Temple. Take time to walk around the summit's paths and enjoy the views. If you have time, visit other temples along the way down the mountain.

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

Night visits are not commonly available, as the summit is typically closed at night. However, special tours during religious festivals or holidays may include night-time activities or prayers.

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

It can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, especially during off-peak seasons like winter and early spring.

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

There are toilets, rest areas, and shops offering food, water, and souvenirs at the summit. Local stalls also sell traditional snacks, tea, and religious items for visitors.

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

The Golden Summit is accessible via cable car, making it easier for elderly visitors and children. However, some walking paths may be challenging, and certain areas may not be fully wheelchair accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely used in the area. Credit cards are rarely accepted in smaller shops and eateries, so it's best to use mobile payments or cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several restaurants and cafes near the Golden Summit offering Sichuan cuisine, such as hotpot and noodle dishes. In Emei city, a wider variety of restaurants are available, including Western options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available, especially in restaurants catering to Buddhist pilgrims. Halal food options are limited, but there are some available in nearby towns.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels at the foot of Mount Emei in Emei City, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. For those seeking luxury, there are a few higher-end hotels near the summit or in the surrounding areas.

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

Nearby attractions include the Leshan Giant Buddha, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Emei Mountain Scenic Area. These can be easily combined in a day trip from Mount Emei.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops offering Buddhist statues, prayer beads, incense, tea, and local snacks. Traditional Sichuan handicrafts are also available for purchase.

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

After visiting the Golden Summit, taxis, buses, and shuttle services are available to take you back to Emei city or other destinations. From Emei city, you can take a bus or train to nearby cities like Chengdu or Leshan.