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Emeishan Leiyin Temple is located on Jietuo Slope at the foot of Yunv Peak in Emeishan, Sichuan Province. It is situated on a high hill, facing a dangerous cliff, with lush trees and an elegant environment. It is about two kilometers away from Fuhu Temple.
Leiyin Temple is one of the smaller temples in Mount Emei. It is located on a high hill, leaning against a dangerous cliff, beside a sloping road, and has a cleverly constructed hanging tower with hollow feet. It is an exquisite and unique folk courtyard-style temple hidden in the lush jungle.
There is a courtyard in Leiyin Temple, with buildings such as the Heavenly King Hall, the Main Hall, and the Guanyin Hall in the inner corner, covering an area of about 1,700 square meters. The plaque "Leiyin Temple" and the couplets on the door were written by Li Daozhao of Leshan.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended playing time: about 1 hour
Tickets are included in the Mount Emei Scenic Area ticket
7:00-18:00
Leiyin Temple, located on Mount Emei in Sichuan, is a renowned Buddhist temple with a deep spiritual and cultural significance. It is an integral part of the Mount Emei scenic area, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple has a rich history dating back to the Tang Dynasty and continues to be a key pilgrimage site for Buddhist practitioners.
Leiyin Temple is located on Mount Emei, which is in the Leshan area of Sichuan. You can reach the base of Mount Emei by bus or taxi from Leshan or Chengdu. Once at the base, you can either take a cable car or hike up to the temple. The area is known for its steep paths, so a hike may take several hours depending on your pace.
The temple is generally open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the temple is less crowded. Early morning or late afternoon visits are also recommended for a more tranquil experience.
The entrance fee for Leiyin Temple is typically around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance. There may also be combined tickets available for Mount Emei, which include access to the temple and other scenic areas in the region.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance for the temple itself, as tickets are usually available on the day of visit. However, if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it may be wise to book tickets 1-2 days in advance to avoid long wait times.
It typically takes 1-2 hours to explore Leiyin Temple, including time for meditation, walking around the grounds, and appreciating the temple’s architecture. If you are hiking to the temple from the base of Mount Emei, additional time will be needed for the hike.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may speak basic English. Audio guides may also be available, but they are typically in Mandarin. It's advisable to check with the temple staff about language availability prior to your visit.
The best viewpoints are from the temple itself, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The temple’s courtyards and surrounding natural landscapes are also ideal for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset when the light is softer.
Start by entering the main prayer hall to experience the Buddhist rituals. Then, walk through the temple’s gardens and courtyards to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. If time permits, explore the surrounding natural areas for stunning mountain views.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Leiyin Temple. However, during specific Buddhist festivals, there may be special ceremonies or prayer sessions held in the evening. It is advisable to check with local sources for event schedules during your visit.
Leiyin Temple can get crowded during weekends, public holidays, and Buddhist festivals. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially early in the morning or late afternoon. Visiting during the off-season (winter) will also provide a quieter experience.
The temple has basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are food stalls around the temple serving simple snacks and tea. Souvenir shops are available selling Buddhist items, incense, and local crafts.
While the temple itself is accessible, the hike to Leiyin Temple from the base of Mount Emei can be quite steep and may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors. However, there are cable cars available for a more comfortable ascent. Children can enjoy the temple grounds and peaceful surroundings with supervision.
Cash is commonly used for small purchases, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely accepted in the area. Credit cards are not typically accepted in the temple or at smaller food stalls.
There are several local restaurants and cafes nearby serving traditional Sichuan and Tibetan cuisine, such as noodle dishes, dumplings, and tea. The eateries around Mount Emei offer simple and hearty meals for visitors.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the area, with dishes such as vegetable dumplings and noodle soups. Halal food options may be available at specific restaurants catering to Muslim dietary needs, though options may be limited in the area.
There are a number of guesthouses, hotels, and lodges in the Mount Emei area, ranging from budget to mid-range accommodations. For a more luxurious stay, there are also upscale hotels available at the base of the mountain.
Souvenir shops around Leiyin Temple offer a range of items including Buddhist prayer beads, incense, Tibetan jewelry, and thangka paintings. You can also find local crafts and textiles representing the cultural heritage of the region.
After visiting Leiyin Temple, you can take a cable car or hike down the mountain. For further travel, buses and taxis are available to take you to Leshan or Chengdu, where you can continue your journey by train or flight.
