How to Meet Locals & Make Friends in Leshan, China

1. Leshan International Giant Buddha

Visit the stunning Leshan Giant Buddha and join guided tours to interact with fellow travelers and locals.

Group Interaction: Opportunity to bond with others in a group setting.
Cultural Exchange: Sharing experiences and learning about different cultures.
Scenic Setting: Beautiful views fostering a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Explore Leshan's local Wine & Tea Street to enjoy authentic Chinese tea and wine while meeting friendly vendors.

Local Delicacies: Tasting traditional Chinese beverages and foods.
Authentic Local Market: Experience a genuine market atmosphere with locals selling their products.
Cultural Immersion: Learning about the local tea and wine-making process.

Stroll through Leshan's beautiful parks and gardens like Jinkang Garden or Dleshan Botanical Garden to encounter locals enjoying leisure time.

Natural Beauty: Enjoying the peaceful and picturesque surroundings.
Local Activities: Participating in local activities such as Tai Chi or bird-watching.
Community Gatherings: Meeting locals during community gatherings and events.

Join a local cooking class to learn how to prepare Sichuan cuisine and connect with fellow students.

Culinary Experience: Learning the secrets of traditional Sichuan dishes.
Hands-On Interaction: Preparing and cooking the dishes together, fostering friendships.
Cultural Exchange: Sharing cooking tips and food culture with locals and fellow students.

Discover Leshan's vibrant night markets like the Chengdu Street Snacks Night Market for an authentic local experience.

Local Cuisine: Tasting various regional snacks and street food.
Lively Atmosphere: Experiencing the bustling night market environment.
Socializing Opportunities: Meeting locals and fellow travelers while exploring the market.

Participate in calligraphy or painting workshops to learn from local artists and make new friends.

Artistic Skills: Improving your own artistic abilities.
Cultural Immersion: Learning about Chinese calligraphy and painting techniques.
Networking Opportunities: Meeting local artists and fellow workshop attendees.

Visit community centers to participate in activities like sports clubs, language exchanges, or dance classes and meet local residents.

Activity-Based Interaction: Sharing a common interest with locals through various activities.
Cultural Exchange: Learning about local customs and traditions through shared activities.
Language Learning Opportunities: Improving your Mandarin skills through language exchanges.

Explore Leshan on a bike tour and stop at local spots to interact with residents and fellow cyclists.

Physical Activity: Enjoying an active and healthy way to sightsee.
Scenic Routes: Cycling through beautiful landscapes and local communities.
Socializing Opportunities: Meeting locals and fellow cyclists during the tour.

Participate in local festivals like the Leshan Lantern Festival to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet locals.

Cultural Experience: Understanding traditional customs and practices.
Community Gatherings: Joining local families and friends in celebrations.
Networking Opportunities: Meeting locals and fellow festival attendees from around the world.

Relax in Leshan's tea houses to enjoy a cup of tea and engage in conversations with locals.

Join language exchange groups to practice Mandarin with locals while making friends.

Language Learning Opportunities: Improving your Chinese language skills through conversations.
Cultural Exchange: Learning about local customs and traditions.
Networking Opportunities: Meeting locals who can provide insights into the city and its people.

Participate in volunteer programs to contribute to the local community while making friends with like-minded individuals.

Community Service: Giving back to the local community.
Networking Opportunities: Meeting locals and fellow volunteers from around the world.
Cultural Exchange: Learning about local challenges and solutions.

Attend Couchsurfing meetups to connect with locals and fellow travelers for a unique cultural exchange.

Socializing Opportunities: Meeting locals and fellow travelers.
Cultural Exchange: Sharing experiences, stories, and customs with others.
Networking Opportunities: Connecting with locals who can provide valuable insights into the city and its people.

Visit local cafes to enjoy coffee, snacks, and engaging conversations with locals.

Relaxed Atmosphere: Enjoying a comfortable environment conducive to conversation.
Cultural Experience: Learning about local coffee culture and preferences.
Socializing Opportunities: Meeting locals and fellow cafe patrons.

Connect with students at local universities for a unique cultural exchange and friendships.

Cultural Exchange: Learning about the lives and traditions of local university students.
Networking Opportunities: Meeting locals who can provide insights into the city and its people.
Language Learning Opportunities: Improving your Mandarin skills through conversations with students.