Big Buddha Temple

Introducing Big Buddha Temple

The Big Buddha Temple, formerly known as the Big Buddha Temple, is located at the foot of Mount Emei. As the first gateway to worship Mount Emei, the entire temple is magnificent, majestic and imposing. It is not only the starting point for praying and pilgrimage to the Buddhist world of Mount Emei, but also the starting point for the public to travel to Mount Emei and enter the famous mountain.

The Big Buddha Temple faces west and east, covers an area of ​​more than 400 acres, and has a construction area of ​​56,000 square meters. The overall layout is divided into three functional areas: the north side (facing the city) is the Buddhist worship area, open to tourists and believers, and for various religious ceremonies; the central part is the Buddhist garden cultural sharing area, with large areas of vegetation and winding paths, suitable for rest and walking; the south side is the Buddhist college education area, which is also the location of Sichuan Buddhist College.

The library at the Dafo Zen Monastery is a treasure trove of Buddhist texts and free Buddhist literature, making it a must-see.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 hours

Tickets

58 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Big Buddha Temple

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

The Big Buddha in Leshan was built during the Tang Dynasty (713-803 AD) and is considered a masterpiece of Chinese stone carving. The statue was carved to calm the turbulent waters of the confluence of the Min, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers, and it has become a symbol of peace and a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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

The Big Buddha is located in Leshan, Sichuan Province. From Chengdu, it can be reached by bus, taxi, or private vehicle in about 1.5 to 2 hours. There are buses from Chengdu’s Xinnanmen Bus Station to Leshan every 30 minutes. Once in Leshan, you can take a local taxi or a public bus to the Big Buddha site.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Big Buddha is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends.

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

The entrance fee for the Big Buddha Scenic Area is ¥90 for adults. The boat ride to view the Buddha from the river is an additional ¥70. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or online through various travel booking platforms.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but it is recommended during peak seasons (holidays or weekends) to avoid long lines. A few days before your visit should suffice for online bookings.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 2-3 hours to fully explore the Big Buddha site, including visiting the statue, the surrounding temples, and enjoying the boat ride. If you plan to visit other nearby attractions, allow for extra time.

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

• The Giant Buddha statue, which stands at 71 meters tall.
• The surrounding Lingyun Temple, which offers insight into the cultural and spiritual history of the area.
• The riverside boat ride, offering a stunning view of the Buddha from the water.
• The park area around the statue, which provides a peaceful setting and great photo opportunities.

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

Guided tours are available at the site in Chinese. Audio guides are also offered in several languages, including English. It’s recommended to rent an audio guide for a more informative experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• From the top of the hill near the Lingyun Temple, there’s a panoramic view of the Big Buddha and the surrounding area.
• The boat ride on the river offers a unique perspective of the Buddha from the water, perfect for photos.
• The area around the Buddha’s feet also offers a great close-up view of the intricate carvings and details.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start your visit by exploring the Lingyun Temple and then walk down to the base of the Big Buddha. After that, take the steps up to the viewing platforms for closer views of the statue. End your visit with the boat ride to see the Buddha from the river before leaving the site.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at the Big Buddha. However, the site is beautifully lit during the evening, and the serene atmosphere can still be enjoyed from the surrounding park after dark.

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

The Big Buddha is one of Leshan's most popular attractions and can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning on weekdays, especially during off-peak seasons like winter or early spring.

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

There are public toilets, snack shops, and rest areas available within the scenic area. You can purchase bottled water, local snacks, and souvenirs from shops inside the park. There are also a few restaurants and cafes nearby for more substantial meals.

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

The Big Buddha site is accessible to elderly and children, though there are many steps and steep inclines. There are ramps and paths for those with limited mobility, but some areas may be challenging. It is advisable for disabled visitors to check the accessibility of certain parts of the site before visiting.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted in some smaller shops or ticket counters.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several small restaurants and cafes near the Big Buddha, offering Sichuan cuisine and snacks. For more options, you can head to the city center of Leshan, where there are a variety of dining choices.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available, especially in the local Sichuan restaurants. Halal food options are limited in the area, but you can find some in Leshan’s more central areas, especially near the Muslim quarter.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several hotels and guesthouses near the Big Buddha site, offering a range of options from budget to mid-range accommodations. For more luxurious stays, consider hotels in the city center of Leshan, about 15-20 minutes away by taxi.

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

Nearby attractions include Mount Emei, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Buddhist temples and hiking trails. It’s also easy to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha Park or take a walk along the Min River for scenic views.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are numerous souvenir shops selling items such as Buddha statues, prayer beads, local handicrafts, and postcards. You can also purchase traditional Sichuan spices and snacks as souvenirs.

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

After visiting the Big Buddha, taxis, buses, or private vehicles are available to take you to other attractions in Leshan or back to Chengdu. The Leshan Railway Station and bus terminals are well-connected for onward travel to other destinations.