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The Nine-bend Plank Road is a famous scenic area for hiking, photography, and cultural exploration. Visitors can walk along the precarious plank road that clings to the mountainside, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The area is also perfect for experiencing the history and architecture of traditional wooden plank roads.
The Nine-Curve Plank Road, located on the right side of the Leshan Giant Buddha in Sichuan, winds its way from top to bottom, clinging to the rock face to the Buddha's feet. It was excavated concurrently with the construction of the Leshan Giant Buddha statue. The path, 1.45 meters wide at its widest point and 0.6 meters narrowest at its narrowest, consists of 217 stone steps. Poets have hailed it as a "symphony on the cliff face." The "Jingbian Diagram" at the first bend of the path is intricately carved with graceful lines, featuring pavilions and towers, providing valuable resources for the study of Tang Dynasty architecture and stone carving.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Temporary closure of the Nine-Curve Plank Road
From October 8, 2018, to February 4, 2019, scaffolding will be erected to conduct a close-up survey of the Buddha's main structure. To prevent any potential safety incidents from interfering with on-site activities and survey work, the Nine-Curve Plank Road will be temporarily closed during this period. Visitors will not be able to access the Buddha's feet via the Nine-Curve Plank Road. However, the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area will remain open.
Please see the official website for details on the opening events.
Peak season (April 1st - October 7th) 7:30-18:30
Off-season (October 8th - March 31st of the following year) 8:00-17:30
The Nine-bend Plank Road is a historical architectural marvel in Leshan, Sichuan. It was built during the Qing Dynasty and is famous for its intricate and steep design that allows people to access the mountains. The road holds significant cultural and historical importance, representing the resourcefulness and perseverance of the region’s people in overcoming difficult terrain.
The Nine-bend Plank Road is located in Leshan, Sichuan, China. To get there, visitors can take a bus or taxi from downtown Leshan to the base of the mountain, and then walk up the trail leading to the plank road. It's a popular tourist attraction, so public transportation is easily accessible.
The Nine-bend Plank Road is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the area is less crowded. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best lighting and fewer crowds for photos.
The entrance fee to the Nine-bend Plank Road is usually around 60-100 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online via official tourism websites or platforms. It's recommended to check for any special discounts or packages when booking tickets in advance.
Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary unless visiting during peak tourist seasons (such as holidays). For better convenience, it is advisable to book at least a few days in advance, especially for group tours or if you plan to visit on weekends or holidays.
Visiting the Nine-bend Plank Road typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on how long you spend hiking and taking photographs. If you plan to explore the surrounding area or engage in other activities, such as visiting nearby temples or enjoying the views, you may need an additional 1-2 hours.
The must-see highlight is the plank road itself, with its narrow wooden paths clinging to the mountainside. The surrounding natural scenery, including the dramatic cliffs and lush greenery, provides a beautiful backdrop for photos. Visitors should also explore the nearby temples and historical structures for a deeper cultural experience.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer basic services in English, especially during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides are also available for rent in some areas, but they are mostly in Chinese. It is advisable to hire a local guide if you want a more detailed explanation of the area’s history and cultural significance.
Some of the best photography spots are along the plank road itself, where the views of the surrounding mountains and cliffs are dramatic. The best viewpoints are found at the bends of the road, where you can capture the winding path and scenic landscapes. The early morning light provides the best conditions for photography.
The recommended itinerary is to first visit the main entrance, then hike up the mountain towards the plank road. After walking along the road, take time to explore nearby temples or scenic spots. The area is quite compact, so a circular route along the plank road followed by a visit to surrounding attractions works well.
Night visits or light shows are not commonly available at the Nine-bend Plank Road. The area is best explored during daylight hours due to its rugged terrain and safety concerns. However, the surrounding areas may have some evening activities or cultural events during peak seasons.
The Nine-bend Plank Road can get crowded, especially during holidays and weekends. The least crowded times are typically in the early morning on weekdays or during the off-season, such as during the colder months when fewer tourists visit.
Basic facilities, including toilets, rest areas, and small shops, are available at the entrance and along the trail. There are also food vendors selling snacks and drinks, but it is recommended to carry your own water and snacks if you plan to spend more time hiking.
Due to its steep terrain and narrow paths, the Nine-bend Plank Road may not be suitable for elderly, children, or disabled visitors. The hike can be physically demanding, so visitors with mobility issues should consider this before planning a visit.
Cash is still accepted in many parts of the area, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used in shops and ticket counters. It's advisable to have both cash and a mobile payment option available for convenience.
There are a few small local restaurants and cafés near the entrance of the Nine-bend Plank Road that serve Sichuan cuisine and snacks. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes like hotpot, noodles, and dumplings. For more options, you can visit Leshan city, which has a wider variety of restaurants.
Vegetarian options are available at local restaurants, but vegan and halal options may be limited in the area. It’s a good idea to check with restaurant staff beforehand if you have specific dietary preferences.
There are a few hotels and guesthouses near the Nine-bend Plank Road, mostly in the Leshan city area. Some budget-friendly options and mid-range hotels are available, while more luxurious accommodations can be found in Leshan or nearby towns.
Other nearby attractions include the Leshan Giant Buddha, which is one of the most famous landmarks in the region. The nearby Mount Emei is also a popular spot for visitors interested in Buddhist temples and hiking, making both a great combination for a day trip.
There are souvenir shops near the Nine-bend Plank Road that sell traditional handicrafts, Tibetan jewelry, and local snacks. Popular souvenirs include handmade scarves, tea, and local pottery.
After visiting the Nine-bend Plank Road, the best transportation options are buses or taxis that can take you back to Leshan city. From there, you can easily continue to other destinations such as Mount Emei or return to Chengdu by bus or train.
