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At Shenshui Pavilion, visitors can enjoy peaceful views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby river and mountains. The pavilion itself is a beautiful architectural piece that offers a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation and photography. You can also explore the nearby gardens and temples, as well as learn about the local culture and history of Leshan through the various exhibits and displays.
Originally the villa of Ming Dynasty Governor Wu Yongxian, it was renamed Shengshui Temple during the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty and then Shenshui Pavilion during the Shunzhi reign of the Qing Dynasty. The pavilion is named after the spring. Shenshui Pavilion features five-rafter rooms, a flexible layout, a modest scale, and simple decoration. Surrounding it are buildings such as "Pine Wind, Bamboo Moon," and "Water Bamboo Residence," representing typical Sichuan private gardens. It possesses a strong local flavor of Mount Emei and remains largely intact. Outside Shenshui Pavilion lies a spring, the Shenshui Pond, boasting crystal-clear waters that are inexhaustible year-round. In the scorching summer sun, the cold is almost inflicted. In the depths of winter, when the surrounding mountain temples and trees are blanketed in white, the warmth of this pool permeates the ice and snow, warming hearts and earning it the reputation of a sacred mountain spring.
The Shenshui Pool is nestled against a massive rock, known as the "Da'e Stone." Inscribed on it are the cursive characters for "Fu Shou" (meaning "happiness and longevity") by Chen Tuan, a Song Dynasty patriarch, and "Da'e" (meaning "Da'e"), written by Lü Dongbin, one of the Eight Immortals of the Tang Dynasty. Furthermore, the characters for "Shenshui" (meaning "divine water") are carved in regular script from the Ming Dynasty. Behind the Shenshui Pavilion lies Baozhang Peak, said to be the home of Baozhang, a Central Indian monk who traveled to Sichuan during the Wei and Jin dynasties to pursue mountaineering.
Subtropical humid monsoon climate;
Suitable for summer vacation
It is recommended to play for two hours
Included in the ticket price of Mount Emei Scenic Area, 160 yuan per person in peak season and 110 yuan per person in off-season
Open all day
Shenshui Pavilion has a long history, with its construction linked to the region's Buddhist heritage. It is believed to have been built during the Tang Dynasty and serves as a cultural and spiritual landmark. The pavilion is associated with the famous Leshan Giant Buddha, and it provides visitors with a peaceful space for reflection and an appreciation of Chinese architectural styles.
Shenshui Pavilion is located in Leshan, Sichuan Province, China. To reach the pavilion, you can take a taxi or local bus from Leshan's city center, or take a boat tour along the river for a scenic approach to the pavilion. The site is easily accessible by taxi, and the nearest public transportation options are also available for visitors traveling from the city.
Shenshui Pavilion is typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. The pavilion is especially picturesque during the spring and autumn months when the surrounding foliage is vibrant.
The entrance fee for Shenshui Pavilion is generally around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the pavilion's entrance. For convenience, you may also be able to purchase tickets through online platforms, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for Shenshui Pavilion, but it is recommended during busy periods like national holidays or weekends. You can purchase tickets the same day you visit, but advanced booking is a good idea for ensuring availability during peak times.
Visiting Shenshui Pavilion can take anywhere from one to two hours, depending on how long you spend exploring the pavilion, the surrounding gardens, and enjoying the views. If you plan to visit other nearby attractions, you may want to allocate more time.
The must-see highlights at Shenshui Pavilion include the beautiful architectural features of the pavilion itself, the serene views of the river and mountains, and the tranquil gardens that surround the pavilion. The pavilion’s main hall, decorated with traditional artwork, is also a significant highlight.
Guided tours are available at Shenshui Pavilion in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may also be available by request. Audio guides can be rented at the entrance in Mandarin, and depending on availability, English audio guides may also be offered.
The best photography spots include the pavilion itself, with its traditional architecture, the panoramic views of the river, and the surrounding mountains. The nearby temple also offers stunning backdrops for photographs. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for capturing the site.
Start by visiting the pavilion to enjoy its beautiful structure and the views from the top. Afterward, explore the surrounding gardens and temples. You can also take a leisurely walk along the riverbank to experience the serene atmosphere of the area.
Night visits and light shows are not typically available at Shenshui Pavilion. The best experience is during the day when you can fully appreciate the natural surroundings and the architecture. Special tours may be available by booking in advance.
Shenshui Pavilion can be crowded during peak tourist seasons or on weekends. The least crowded times are usually early in the morning on weekdays or during the off-peak seasons (autumn and winter).
There are basic facilities such as public toilets and rest areas available at Shenshui Pavilion. However, there are no major food stalls or restaurants inside the pavilion. Visitors should bring their own water and snacks, or they can visit nearby restaurants after their visit.
Shenshui Pavilion is relatively accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some areas may require walking on uneven terrain. Disabled visitors may face some challenges as the site has stairs and slopes, but there are some paved paths for easier access to certain areas.
Cash is accepted at Shenshui Pavilion, but mobile payment options such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely available for convenience. It's a good idea to carry some cash, especially in more remote areas.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near Shenshui Pavilion where visitors can enjoy Sichuan cuisine, including noodle dishes, hot pots, and snacks. The town of Leshan offers a wider range of dining options for those looking for more variety.
While local Sichuan cuisine often features meat, there are vegetarian options available at many local eateries. Halal food options may be more limited, but larger towns in the area may have more diverse food offerings.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Leshan, ranging from budget to mid-range. Some accommodations offer river views or are located near major tourist attractions, making them convenient for visitors to Shenshui Pavilion.
Nearby attractions include the Leshan Giant Buddha, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Wuyou Temple. Both landmarks can easily be combined in a day trip with a visit to Shenshui Pavilion.
There are souvenir shops near the pavilion and in the nearby town where you can purchase traditional Chinese arts, crafts, and souvenirs. Popular items include Buddhist statues, local handicrafts, and Sichuan tea.
After visiting Shenshui Pavilion, taxis and buses are available to take you to other parts of Leshan or to nearby tourist attractions like the Leshan Giant Buddha. You can also hire a private vehicle for a more convenient and flexible continuation of your trip.
