Leshan Giant Buddha: World's Largest Stone Buddha

Introduction

The Leshan Giant Buddha is the world’s largest stone-carved Buddha statue, located in Leshan City, about 160 kilometers south of Chengdu. Carved into the cliff face of Mount Emei, the statue is 71 meters tall and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History

Construction of the Leshan Giant Buddha began in 713 AD during the Tang Dynasty and took 90 years to complete. The statue was carved by a monk named Haitong, who believed that the Buddha would calm the turbulent waters of the Min River.

Main Attractions

• Giant Buddha Statue: The main attraction, standing 71 meters tall.
• Mahao Bay: A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Buddha.
• Wuyou Mountain: A mountain with ancient temples and beautiful scenery.
• Minjiang River: Boat tours offering views of the Buddha from the river.
• East Hill: A hiking trail with views of the Buddha and surrounding landscape.

Practical Information

• Location: Leshan City, Sichuan (about 2.5 hours from Chengdu)
• Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM (April-October), 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (November-March)
• Ticket Price: Approximately CNY 90
• Transportation: Take a train or bus from Chengdu to Leshan.

Visitor Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid crowds.
• Boat Tour: Take a boat tour for the best views of the Buddha.
• Combine with Mount Emei: Leshan is close to Mount Emei, making it easy to visit both in one trip.

Last Updated: July 2026

Note: Opening hours and ticket prices are subject to change. Please verify current information before visiting.