Located just a short drive from Chengdu, the Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei are two of Sichuan’s most iconic attractions. Together, they offer a unique mix of breathtaking natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual significance. For travelers with limited time, this one-day itinerary will help you make the most of your trip, guiding you to these world-famous sites in a timely and efficient manner.

1. Why Visit Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei?

Both the Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei hold deep historical, cultural, and religious significance. The Leshan Giant Buddha, a massive 71-meter statue carved into the cliffside, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while Mount Emei is one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains in China and a pilgrimage site for Buddhists around the world. These landmarks are not only visually stunning but are also steeped in ancient history and spiritual practices, making them a must-see for anyone visiting Sichuan.

2. Tour Itinerary: A Day Trip from Chengdu

7:00 AM – Departure from Chengdu

Start your journey with an early departure from Chengdu. The distance from Chengdu to Leshan is approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles), and it takes about 2-2.5 hours by private car or guided tour. Be sure to leave early to maximize your time at both locations.

9:30 AM – Arrival at Leshan Giant Buddha

Your first stop is the Leshan Giant Buddha, one of the largest stone statues in the world. Standing at 71 meters tall, the Buddha overlooks the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu, and Qingyi Rivers. The statue was carved during the Tang Dynasty (8th century) and is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese art and engineering.

What to Do: Upon arrival, you can either take a boat tour to view the Buddha from the river, which offers a unique perspective of the statue, or visit the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area and take the staircase that leads you down to the base of the Buddha for an up-close look.

Must-See Spots: Be sure to visit the Fengchan Temple and the Lingyun Temple located near the Buddha. These temples are rich in history and offer great views of the surrounding landscape.

11:30 AM – Lunch in Leshan

After exploring the Buddha, take a break for lunch at a local restaurant. Leshan is known for its delicious Sichuan cuisine, so be sure to try some local specialties such as Sichuan hotpot, mapo tofu, or Sichuan-style fish dishes.

3. Afternoon: Explore Mount Emei (4-5 Hours)

1:00 PM – Departure for Mount Emei

After lunch, continue your journey to Mount Emei, which is about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Leshan. The drive will take approximately 1 hour, giving you some time to relax before reaching the mountain.

2:00 PM – Arrive at Mount Emei

Mount Emei is famous for its stunning scenery, ancient temples, and Buddhist culture. As one of China’s Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains, it is a significant site for spiritual practice and pilgrimage. It is also home to many rare species of plants and animals, making it a great destination for nature lovers.

What to Do: The most popular way to explore Mount Emei is by taking the cable car to the Golden Summit, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. At the summit, you can visit the Golden Buddha, a magnificent statue located at the top of the mountain. If time allows, consider walking the Xixiangchi Temple, which is famous for its tranquility and serene beauty.

Hiking Option: For those who enjoy hiking, you can take one of the well-maintained trails that wind up the mountain, passing through ancient temples and lush forests along the way. The hike takes around 3-4 hours, but it offers a more intimate connection with the natural beauty of the mountain.

Golden Summit: The Golden Summit is the highest point of Mount Emei at 3,077 meters above sea level, and on clear days, the view from the top is simply spectacular. You’ll be able to see the surrounding mountains and the city of Emei below, all enveloped in mist, adding to the mystical atmosphere of the place.

4:30 PM – Explore Local Temples and Monasteries

In addition to the Golden Summit, Mount Emei has several ancient temples worth visiting, such as the Baoguo Temple at the base of the mountain and the Fuhu Temple, which are home to important Buddhist relics. Don’t miss the Xixiangchi Temple, a beautiful temple nestled in the clouds, offering a peaceful escape from the crowds.

4. Evening: Return to Chengdu

5:30 PM – Depart for Chengdu

After visiting Mount Emei, it’s time to head back to Chengdu. The drive takes about 1.5 hours, so you’ll be back in the city by around 7:00 PM.

7:00 PM – Arrive in Chengdu

Upon arrival, you’ll have the option to unwind and enjoy a leisurely dinner in one of Chengdu’s vibrant food streets, such as Jinli Ancient Street or Wuhou Shrine, where you can enjoy more delicious Sichuan dishes and local delicacies. Alternatively, you can return to your hotel to rest after a day full of exploration.

5. Travel Tips for Your One Day Trip

Best Time to Visit: The best months to visit Leshan and Mount Emei are from March to November, avoiding the rainy season in the summer months and the cold of winter.

Transportation: Consider booking a private car or a guided tour for a smoother experience. A guide can provide historical insights and manage the time efficiently, especially if you're on a tight schedule.

Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes for walking and hiking, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and some climbing during your visit to the Buddha and Mount Emei.

Weather: Mount Emei can be cooler than Chengdu, especially at the summit. Bring a light jacket if you plan to visit the Golden Summit.