Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Leshan, China

1. Leshan Giant Buddha

A massive stone statue carved into a cliff face, overlooking the confluence of three rivers. It's the largest stone-carved Buddha in the world.

Historical Significance: Offers a unique insight into ancient Chinese Buddhist culture and craftsmanship.
Impressive Scale: The sheer size of the statue is awe-inspiring, standing over 71 meters tall.
Natural Setting: Situated in a breathtaking natural setting with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and rivers.

An ancient Buddhist temple nestled in a valley, known for its intricate carvings and serene atmosphere.

Architectural Beauty: Features unique architectural styles blending Tang and Han elements.
Carved Reliefs: Boasts numerous intricate carvings depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology.
Tranquil Setting: Located in a peaceful valley, offering a serene and quiet atmosphere for reflection.

A series of caves housing thousands of Buddhist statues and murals, dating back to the Tang Dynasty.

Historical Importance: One of the largest and oldest cave temple complexes in China.
Artistic Wonders: Features stunning murals and sculptures showcasing ancient Chinese artistry.
Off-the-beaten-path Experience: Less touristy compared to other popular destinations in Leshan, offering a more authentic experience.

A ghost town believed to be the residence of various Chinese demons and spirits.

Mythological Significance: Based on ancient Chinese mythology, it's said that the town is home to various ghosts.
Cultural Experience: Provides an insight into Chinese folklore and beliefs about the afterlife.
Scenic Views: Located on a hillside overlooking the Yangtze River, offering beautiful vistas.

A vast national park famous for its bamboo forests, temples, and diverse wildlife.

Natural Beauty: Home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including the giant panda.
Temple Visits: Features numerous ancient Buddhist temples along its scenic paths.
Hiking Opportunities: Offers challenging hikes to the summit of Mount Emei, one of China's Four Sacred Mountains.

A scenic boat ride along the Yangtze River, offering views of cliffs, temples, and wildlife.

Scenic Beauty: Provides stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and landscapes.
Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to spot various species such as the Yangtze dolphin, giant pandas, and golden monkeys.
Cultural Insights: Offers a glimpse into local fishing communities and traditional river life.

A Buddhist temple with unique architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Architectural Uniqueness: Featuring a distinctive upturned eaves design, unlike any other temple in Leshan.
Sacred Relics: Houses several sacred Buddhist relics and artifacts.
Natural Setting: Located on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

A series of cave temples and statues carved into a mountain cliff.

Historical Significance: One of the largest groups of Buddhist grottoes in China.
Artistic Wonders: Featuring thousands of Buddha statues and intricate carvings.
Off-the-beaten-path Experience: Less touristy compared to other popular destinations in Leshan, offering a more authentic experience.

An area featuring ancient Tusi (ethnic chieftain) sites and traditional Tibetan architecture.

Cultural Insights: Provides a unique glimpse into the culture of ethnic minorities in China.
Historical Significance: Home to several Tusi sites, which were important historical entities during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
Natural Beauty: Located in a stunning mountainous region with breathtaking vistas.

An underground palace believed to be the residence of various Chinese demons and spirits.

Mythological Significance: Based on ancient Chinese mythology, it's said that the palace is home to various ghosts.
Cultural Experience: Provides an insight into Chinese folklore and beliefs about the afterlife.
Architectural Marvel: Features unique underground architecture, including a replica of the Forbidden City.

An ancient town with traditional architecture and a vibrant local market.

Cultural Experience: Provides a glimpse into traditional Chinese culture, including local customs and cuisine.
Historical Significance: Dates back over 1,000 years, showcasing ancient architectural styles.
Local Market: Features a bustling local market selling traditional goods and delicacies.

A museum showcasing artifacts from the Shang Dynasty, including gold treasures.

Historical Significance: One of the most important archaeological finds in recent Chinese history.
Artistic Wonders: Features numerous gold artifacts, including intricately designed golden masks and jades.
Cultural Insights: Provides a unique insight into the culture and society of the Shang Dynasty.

A research center dedicated to the protection and breeding of giant pandas.

Conservation Efforts: Contributes significantly to the conservation efforts for the endangered giant panda.
Interactive Experience: Offers interactive experiences, including feeding and watching the pandas up close.
Cultural Insights: Provides a unique opportunity to learn about Chinese culture and its relationship with the giant panda.

A bustling market selling local delicacies, souvenirs, and trinkets.

Cultural Experience: Provides a glimpse into the vibrant nightlife and culture of Leshan.
Local Delicacies: Offers a chance to try local delicacies such as hot pot and Sichuan cuisine.
Souvenir Shopping: Features numerous stalls selling traditional souvenirs, including handmade crafts and artwork.

A hot spring resort offering therapeutic bathing and scenic views.

Relaxation: Offers a chance to relax in natural hot springs, promoting physical and mental wellbeing.
Scenic Beauty: Located in a picturesque mountainous region with stunning vistas.
Therapeutic Properties: The hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties, helping with various health issues.