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The First Mountain Pavilion is located in the center of the Emei Mountain low mountain tourist area. It is currently the largest bronze pavilion in China. It is also a microcosm of the ancient and modern culture of Emei Mountain and the starting point for tourists to walk into the mountain.
The pavilion's lotus and base are both made of bronze, and the six lotus petals are carved with famous old and new landscapes of Mount Emei, namely the Ecological Monkey, the Four-sided and Ten-direction Samantabhadra, the Double Bridge Pure Sound, the Most Beautiful in the World, the Nine-Old Immortal Palace, and the Wannian Temple.
The pattern on the base is based on the nature and culture of Mount Emei. The raised part features seven humanistic stories: Hai Rui carving the first Buddha, Emperor Taizong of Song bestowing the golden statue of Samantabhadra, Xuanyuan receiving the Tao from the Heavenly Emperor, Pu Gong chasing a deer and revealing his true form, Bao Zhang enlightening and building the ancestral temple, Li Bai singing the Emei moon, and Chu Kuang Jieyu seeking immortality. The recessed part features the natural resources of Mount Emei, mainly including Alsophila spinulosa, Monkey King, and Phoebe zhennan.
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The First Mountain Pavilion, located on the first peak of Mount Emei, is a historically significant site with deep cultural and religious importance. The pavilion is an iconic landmark in the region and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. It is also closely tied to Buddhism, with historical connections to the early spread of Buddhist teachings in Sichuan.
The First Mountain Pavilion is located on Mount Emei, in Leshan, Sichuan. It can be reached by taxi or bus from Leshan city center. Visitors can also hike up to the pavilion, though the journey may take several hours depending on the route chosen.
The pavilion is open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the area is less crowded. Early mornings or weekdays are ideal for avoiding large crowds.
The entrance fee to visit the First Mountain Pavilion is approximately 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the site or in advance online through local tourism websites.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak seasons or holidays. You can book tickets a few days ahead to ensure entry during busy times.
It typically takes around 1-2 hours to explore the First Mountain Pavilion itself. However, if you plan to hike and explore the surrounding areas, such as the nearby temples and nature trails, it can take up to half a day or more.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be available in English, depending on the season and demand. It is recommended to check ahead for availability.
Start by visiting the pavilion for the best views, then explore the nearby temples. Afterward, take a hike along the surrounding trails to enjoy the natural beauty of Mount Emei. Finish with a visit to the nearby Buddha statues or religious landmarks.
Night visits are not typically available, as the pavilion is mainly a daytime attraction. However, special tours may be organized during major holidays or festivals. It is advisable to check with local tour operators for any special evening events.
The First Mountain Pavilion can be crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. To avoid large crowds, visit during weekdays, particularly in the early morning hours. The spring and autumn months tend to be less crowded than summer.
There are basic facilities available, including toilets and water stations. Food and drinks can be found at the pavilion entrance or in the surrounding area. There are also rest areas for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The First Mountain Pavilion is accessible to elderly visitors and children, though the hike up the mountain can be challenging. For those with mobility issues, it may be better to opt for a taxi or cable car for access to the pavilion.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted. It is recommended to use mobile payments as they are more commonly accepted than credit cards in the area.
There are small eateries near the pavilion, offering local Sichuan cuisine. For more variety, visitors can travel to Leshan city, where a wider selection of restaurants and cafes is available.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at local restaurants, especially in nearby Leshan city. Halal food options may also be found in the city, but they are more limited in the immediate vicinity of the pavilion.
There are several hotels in Leshan city, including mid-range hotels and guesthouses. For a more scenic experience, you can also opt to stay in accommodations closer to Mount Emei.
There are souvenir shops near the pavilion selling local handicrafts, Buddhist artifacts, and nature-themed products. Common items include statues, incense, and traditional Sichuanese souvenirs.
Taxis and buses are the best options for continuing your journey. Leshan city is nearby, where visitors can access more public transport options. If you plan to explore other parts of Mount Emei, consider taking a cable car or taxi for convenience.
