Name: Leshan

Chinese name: 乐山市

Province: Sichuan

Status: Prefecture-level city

Population: 3,501,200

Area: 12,826 km²

Leshan is a small city in Sichuan that owes its reputation to the celebrated seated Giant Buddha. Located approximately 180 km from Chengdu at the confluence of the Dadu He, Min He and Qingyi Jiang rivers, Leshan is a charming riverside city.

History

In ancient times, Leshan was known as Jiazhou and was renowned for its fabulous landscape. Indeed, it was said that "where the most beautiful scenery of Sichuan lies, there lies Jiazhou". Leshan is a cultural city with a history spanning more than 3,000 years. Its rapid development led to the demolition of certain historical monuments. Nevertheless, Leshan has managed to preserve certain structures, including the Giant Buddha, which attracts millions of visitors each year. Leshan is the birthplace of Guo Moruo (1892–1978), a celebrated figure in Chinese literature. His residence is now among the scenic sites worth discovering in Leshan.

Today

Leshan is a renowned tourist city home to the world's foremost Giant Buddha and Mount Emei. Leshan is a charming riverside city lined with trees and small alleys where it is pleasant to stroll. With the new rapid transport routes connecting Leshan to Chengdu, new residents have settled here. The scenic sites surrounding the city continue to attract more visitors each year, allowing the municipality to renovate certain neighborhoods. Leshan's relaxed atmosphere will be highly appreciated after an excursion on Mount Emei. It is possible to visit from Chengdu for a day trip or to stay a few days in order to discover the region and what it has to offer.

Climate

Due to its advantageous location in the southwest of the Sichuan basin, the climate in Leshan is relatively pleasant year-round. Winters are mild and summers are pleasant. Rain is present at the beginning of spring and autumn. The average temperature ranges between 16.4 and 17.5°C. The climate is favorable for agriculture and offers colorful vegetation that enhances the surrounding landscapes.

Boat

There are small boats on the Leshan–Yibin–Luzhou–Chongqing route, very practical for traveling and discovering the fabulous landscapes of the surrounding areas.

Train

A railway line connecting Chengdu to Kunming passes through Leshan.

Bus

The road network provides convenient means to reach Leshan and access each of the city's scenic sites and surrounding attractions.

Minibuses shuttle between the city center and the various sites and attractions. A small bus network runs through the city. You can also take small cycle-rickshaws. Taxis travel throughout the city and will drop you anywhere for just a few yuan.

What to do in Leshan?

• Discover the Giant Buddha of Leshan carved into the rock.
• Take an excursion to Mount Emei.
• Take a boat ride and admire the Giant Buddha up close.