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Visit the Thousand Buddha Pagoda to admire its stunning architecture and panoramic views of Chengdu. Explore the surrounding gardens and temples, and take time to meditate or reflect in the peaceful environment. The pagoda is especially beautiful at sunset for photography.
The Thousand Buddha Pagoda is located to the left of Lingyan Temple on Lingyan Mountain, 5 kilometers north of Dujiangyan City. The pagoda was built during the Kaiyuan period of the Tang Dynasty (713-741) by the Indian monk Ashita Venerable during the reconstruction of Lingyan Temple. It is a solid stone pagoda, 3 meters tall and approximately 7.5 meters in diameter at its base. It features a Sumeru-style base, atop a stupa-shaped body shaped like a stupa. The 13 tiers, larger at the bottom and smaller at the top, are each adorned with statues of seated Buddhas, hence the name Thousand Buddha Pagoda. The lower three tiers feature lotus-seated halos, with the upper tiers gradually decreasing in size. The statues, several centimeters tall, are meticulously carved, with distinct folds in their clothing and benevolent expressions. There are approximately 800 statues in total. The pagoda's summit is adorned with two layers of lotus petals, resting on a lotus pedestal, housing an iron-cast statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. This statue differs in style from the stone statue and is suspected to be a later addition. The Thousand Buddha Pagoda was highly renowned during the Song Dynasty, with the poet Fan Chengda composing the line, "The Five Bridges are now a new road, while the Thousand Buddhas were once a legacy." It has a unique shape and fine carving, which is rare in Shu.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended one-day tour
free
Open all day
The Thousand Buddha Pagoda is an important Buddhist landmark, symbolizing the region's rich religious history. It was built during the Tang Dynasty and has stood as a major pilgrimage site. The pagoda is named after the numerous Buddha statues it houses and is a testament to the region's devotion to Buddhism.
The Thousand Buddha Pagoda is located on the outskirts of Chengdu, about 20 km from the city center. You can take a taxi or bus from the city center, or use a private car. Walking from the city center is not recommended due to the distance.
The pagoda is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and the pagoda is less crowded.
The entrance fee is 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via local ticketing platforms in advance.
It is not necessary to book tickets in advance, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends. Booking a day or two in advance is sufficient.
You will need about 1-2 hours to fully explore the pagoda and its surroundings, including taking in the views, visiting the temple, and strolling through the gardens.
The must-see highlights include the pagoda itself, the beautiful surrounding gardens, the Buddha statues, and the views from the top of the pagoda. The nearby temple and meditation areas also offer peaceful spots for reflection.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in English and Chinese can be rented at the entrance for a more in-depth experience.
The top of the pagoda offers stunning panoramic views of Chengdu and the surrounding countryside. The entrance to the pagoda and the surrounding gardens are also great for photos, especially with the Buddha statues in the background.
Start by visiting the temple at the base of the pagoda, then proceed to the pagoda itself for a climb to the top for the best views. Afterward, stroll through the gardens and meditation areas surrounding the pagoda.
Night visits are not typically available, and there are no regular light shows or special tours. The pagoda is best experienced during daylight hours.
The pagoda can get crowded during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, particularly in the off-peak seasons.
There are toilets and water stations near the entrance. Small shops around the site sell souvenirs, snacks, and refreshments. Rest areas are scattered throughout the gardens for visitors to relax.
The site is accessible for elderly and children, though the climb to the top of the pagoda may be challenging for those with limited mobility. There are rest areas along the way for breaks. Wheelchair access might be limited in some areas.
Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted. It's still a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or at smaller shops.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near the pagoda that offer Sichuan cuisine. For a wider variety, Chengdu city center has numerous dining options.
Vegetarian options are available at some nearby eateries. Vegan and halal options may be more limited but can be found in Chengdu city center.
There are some budget accommodations nearby, but for more options, it is recommended to stay in Chengdu city center where a variety of hotels are available.
Nearby attractions include the Wuhou Shrine and Jinli Ancient Street in Chengdu, which are part of the historical culture of the region. Mount Qingcheng is also a nearby destination for a nature-filled day trip.
Yes, there are souvenir shops around the pagoda selling Buddhist-related items, local tea, and traditional handicrafts like silk scarves and wooden carvings.
Taxi, bus, and private car options are available for continuing the trip. Chengdu city center is easily reachable by taxi or bus for further exploration of the city.
