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Located high in the mountains of Mount Emei, a World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site, Xixiangchi (Xixiangchi) was once a small nunnery in the late Ming Dynasty, but was expanded and transformed into a temple during the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty. It is the perfect spot for moon-viewing in Emei, and "Xixiangchi Night Moon" is one of the ten scenic spots in Emei. Surrounded by misty white clouds and towering ancient trees, the bright autumn moon shines brightly, bringing a sense of sanctuary and tranquility. Gazing up at the stars, one feels a sense of ecstasy. This "Xixiangchi Night Moon" scene is a famous sight here. At night, the moon shines brightly in the sky, its reflections reflected in the pond, creating a breathtaking scene of merging water and sky, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene.
Starting at the Elephant Washing Pond, the temperature begins to drop. After nightfall, the temple is completely silent, with mist drifting in. When the moon is bright in the sky, its reflections are reflected in the pond, blending the water and sky into one. This is an area with a relatively high concentration of monkeys, so be careful not to take out food or water easily to avoid being attacked.
Subtropical monsoon humid climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Included in the Emeishan Scenic Area ticket price of 160 yuan per person
7:00-18:00;
If you need to stay in the temple, you need to make a reservation in advance with the temple staff.
The Elephant Washing Pool in Leshan is a sanctuary where elephants are cared for, providing an opportunity for visitors to interact with these majestic animals. It plays a role in local conservation efforts and has become a popular tourist destination due to its unique offerings, such as elephant washing and education about elephant behavior.
The Elephant Washing Pool is located in Leshan, Sichuan Province. It is accessible by taxi or car from downtown Leshan, which is approximately 15 km away. Public buses and private tours also serve the area.
The Elephant Washing Pool is typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon when the elephants are more active and the area is less crowded.
The entrance fee is around 80–120 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through the attraction's official website or through local ticketing platforms.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). Booking a few days ahead will ensure availability, though tickets can also be purchased on-site if you're visiting on weekdays or during off-peak times.
A visit to the Elephant Washing Pool can take about 2–3 hours, including time to watch the elephant bathing session, explore the surrounding nature trails, and participate in feeding or other interactive experiences.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may offer basic English explanations. Audio guides in Chinese are typically available, but English-language guides may be limited.
Start by watching the elephant washing session, then take a walk along the nature trails for a closer look at the elephants and their habitat. Finish by exploring the gift shop or enjoying the surrounding views.
There are no regular night visits or light shows at the Elephant Washing Pool. However, special tours may be available during peak seasons. It's best to check with the attraction ahead of time.
The Elephant Washing Pool can be crowded during weekends, holidays, and peak seasons. For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
There are toilets, food stalls, and rest areas available near the entrance. A small gift shop offers souvenirs, and water stations are located throughout the park. There are also local restaurants outside the attraction for meals.
The Elephant Washing Pool is relatively accessible, with paved paths and some shaded rest areas. However, there are some uneven trails, so it may not be ideal for those with severe mobility issues.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used. Credit cards are less commonly accepted, so it's recommended to use mobile payments or carry cash.
There are a few small cafes and food stalls inside the attraction serving snacks and drinks. For a wider selection of meals, head to nearby restaurants in Leshan city.
Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants in the area, but vegan and halal options may be more limited. It’s recommended to check in advance if you have specific dietary needs.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Leshan city, which is around 15 minutes away by car. The Leshan Grand Hotel and other mid-range accommodations offer convenient stays for visitors.
The famous Leshan Giant Buddha is nearby, and can easily be combined with a visit to the Elephant Washing Pool. Additionally, Mount Emei, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is within a 1-2 hour drive.
There are souvenir shops selling elephant-related items such as plush toys, postcards, and other elephant-themed merchandise. You can also find local crafts and snacks in the shops near the entrance.
After visiting the Elephant Washing Pool, you can take a taxi or bus to nearby attractions such as the Leshan Giant Buddha. Buses and taxis are also available to take you back to Leshan city for onward travel.
