Leshan Giant Buddha – Ticket Price, Opening Hours, Location, and Highlights

Atop the head of the Leshan Giant Buddha, there are 1,051 spiral hair curls, known as “螺髻” (luó jì). These were counted and numbered during a restoration effort in 1962 using chalk. From a distance, these hair curls appear to seamlessly merge with the Buddha’s head. However, they are actually individual stone pieces intricately embedded into the sculpture. Each curl has a distinct groove where it fits into the head without the use of mortar. The surface of each curl is coated with two layers of plaster, the inner layer being lime with a thickness ranging from 5 to 15 millimeters. During the 1991 restoration, three hair curl stones were discovered in the recessed area of the Buddha’s right leg, two of which were relatively intact. These curls measure 78 centimeters in length, with the top dimensions being 31.5 x 31.5 centimeters and the base dimensions being 24 x 24 centimeters.

Flanking the Giant Buddha on both sides of the cliff are two imposing statues of guardian kings, each standing over 16 meters tall. These stone-carved guardians add to the grandeur and protective aura of the site. The right side of the Buddha features a treacherous Nine Bends Plank Road, an ancient path carved into the cliff face during the Tang Dynasty. This path was originally used during the construction of the Buddha and served as a pilgrimage route for worshippers. The path winds and twists perilously along the sheer rock face, providing a dramatic and challenging journey for those who traverse it.

Historically, the Leshan Giant Buddha was once sheltered by a grand pavilion known as the “大佛阁” (Dà Fó Gé) or “大像阁” (Dà Xiàng Gé). According to various historical records, this pavilion ranged from seven to thirteen stories high and served to protect the Buddha from the elements. However, it was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries.

Lingyun Temple (凌云寺) is an ancient Buddhist temple located within the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area. Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, the temple adds a spiritual ambiance to the area surrounding the giant Buddha. It has undergone reconstruction and renovations over the years, preserving its historical and cultural significance. The temple features traditional Chinese architecture, intricate wood carvings, and beautiful Buddhist statues. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, immerse themselves in its tranquil atmosphere, and appreciate the artistry and religious devotion that make Lingyun Temple an integral part of the Leshan Giant Buddha experience.

Situated on the eastern side of the giant Buddha, the ancient Wuyou Temple (乌尤寺) offers a peaceful and contemplative environment. Surrounded by lush gardens and scenic beauty, Wuyou Temple provides visitors with a tranquil retreat. The temple showcases exquisite traditional Chinese architecture and houses a collection of Buddhist statues and artifacts. It is a place for spiritual reflection, meditation, and cultural exploration. The peaceful ambiance of Wuyou Temple adds to the overall experience of the Leshan Giant Buddha area, inviting visitors to connect with their inner selves and embrace the serenity of the surroundings.

Mount Lingyun is a picturesque mountain located within the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area. Offering breathtaking views and natural beauty, it serves as a backdrop to the grandeur of the giant Buddha statue. Visitors can explore Mount Lingyun’s scenic trails, which meander through lush greenery and showcase cascading waterfalls. The mountain provides vantage points that offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the giant Buddha and the convergence of rivers. Hiking in this tranquil setting allows visitors to immerse themselves in nature, appreciate the awe-inspiring scenery, and capture memorable moments amidst the beauty of Mount Lingyun.

Boat tours offer a unique and enchanting perspective. Visitors can embark on a boat ride along the rivers that flow below the giant Buddha, providing an up-close and awe-inspiring view of the colossal statue. As the boat glides through the water, passengers can witness the immense scale of the Buddha, marvel at its intricate details, and soak in the surrounding natural beauty. These boat tours offer a serene and picturesque experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the harmonious integration of the magnificent sculpture with the flowing rivers and stunning landscapes of the Leshan Giant Buddha area.

The Leshan Giant Buddha Bridge is a remarkable architectural feat that enhances the visitor experience at the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area in China. Spanning across the Dadu River, this bridge offers a unique vantage point to admire the grandeur of the giant Buddha from a distance. As visitors traverse the bridge, they are treated to panoramic views of the Buddha statue, the surrounding mountains, and the flowing river below. The bridge not only serves as a practical crossing point but also adds to the overall beauty and accessibility of the scenic area.