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The Alsophila Canyon is located in Xiba Town, Wutongqiao District. It is backed by the Leshan Giant Buddha to the north and adjacent to Mount Emei to the west. It is less than 20 kilometers away from Leshan city and only takes half an hour by car. It got its name because there are more than 50,000 Alsophila trees growing in the valley.
The Alsophila spinulosa, a contemporary of the dinosaurs, has a 200 million-year history and is a Class I protected plant species in China. Known as the "panda of the plant world," the Alsophila spinulosa canyon offers many other fascinating features, beyond the overlapping green umbrellas formed by tens of thousands of these trees.
More than a hundred species of butterflies, rare plants that are hard to name, and precious medicinal herbs can still be seen here. It is said that a few years ago someone saw the remains of a lizard-like monster that was more than 1 meter long, and it was later purchased by a scientific research unit in Chengdu.
In addition, the ancient plank road and the one-arrow stone in the canyon remind people of the story of Zhuge Liang's seven captures of Meng Huo. All of these add a layer of charming cultural color to the Alsophila canyon.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
10 yuan/person
Alsophila Canyon is known for its unique geological formations and biodiversity. It is a popular natural site for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering scenic landscapes and rich flora and fauna.
Alsophila Canyon is located in the Leshan region of Sichuan. It is accessible by bus or taxi from Leshan city center. There are also local walking routes for those staying nearby, but taxis are the most convenient option.
The canyon is open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and the light is ideal for photography.
The entrance fee is around 40-60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through official tourism websites or ticket platforms.
While it is not mandatory to book tickets in advance, it is recommended during peak seasons or for special events to avoid long queues. Booking 1-2 days in advance is sufficient.
A typical visit to Alsophila Canyon takes around 2-4 hours, depending on how much time you spend hiking and exploring different viewpoints.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides are sometimes offered in English for international visitors, though availability may vary.
Start by exploring the main canyon trail to experience its unique rock formations. Then, take the boat ride along the river, followed by a visit to the viewpoints for panoramic views. Conclude with a relaxing break by the river or a picnic in the designated areas.
Night visits are generally not available. However, special seasonal events and guided night walks may occur, so it is best to check with local sources before your visit.
The canyon can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. For a quieter experience, try to visit on weekdays in the early morning or late afternoon, especially during the off-peak seasons.
Basic facilities like toilets and water stations are available. There are also small shops selling snacks, local products, and souvenirs. Rest areas along the trails provide spots for relaxation.
The main trail is accessible to most visitors, but certain areas with steep inclines may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. Children should be supervised, as there are some narrow pathways along the canyon edges.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted, and cash is also accepted. Credit cards are not commonly used at smaller sites.
There are local eateries near the entrance serving Sichuanese cuisine, including hot pot, noodles, and rice dishes. For a broader selection, head to Leshan city, where a variety of restaurants and cafés are available.
Vegetarian options are available at most restaurants around the site. Halal food is available in Leshan city, where there are Muslim-friendly restaurants.
There are a few guesthouses and hotels near Alsophila Canyon, but for more options, you may want to stay in Leshan city, where a wide range of accommodations is available.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the entrance of Alsophila Canyon, where you can find locally-made crafts, traditional Sichuan snacks, and tea sets.
Taxis and local buses are available to continue your trip to nearby attractions. For longer trips, the Leshan bus station provides connections to other parts of Sichuan and beyond.
