Leshan, A Place Like Nowhere Else!
Situated on the southern Silk Road, Leshan is one of the core cities in Chengdu, Sichuan, China domestically and internationally famous for its heritage and culture. It is a city with rich natural resources, as well as relics that trace back to early human civilisation, making it a UNESCO-recognised destination and one of China’s top 50 cities for travel and tourism.
Since the Han Dynasty, Leshan has been immersed in Buddhist culture, drawing upon thousands of years of expertise to nurture the city that attracts countless Chinese and international travellers to experience the Buddhist culture each year. Regardless of the residents’ and the visitors’ religions, these once sacred places have now become historic sites that offer serenity and a window to peek into the ancient years.
Located at the confluence of the Min, Dadu and Qingyi rivers, Mount Emei Scenic Area consists of popular tourist attractions including Leshan Giant Buddha, Lingyun Mountain, Wuyou Mountain, Giant Sleeping Buddha, and Mahao Cave Tomb. Looking at the downtown of Leshan across rivers, the Scenic Area with a land area of 9.4km2 has become a world cultural and natural heritage, state-level tourist attraction, and national AAAAA (5A) tourist attraction.
The Leshan Giant Buddha has always been a must-go place for scholars and artists in China because of its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural impacts. In a poem, Su Dongpo wrote,
"I have no aim for higher position or desire to make the acquaintance of Han Chaozong, but wish to find a position in Hanjia, and have a trip to Lingyun Mountain while carrying wine from time to time."
Leshan Giant Buddha, carved on the cliff at the confluence of three rivers, is the world’s largest carved sitting statue of Maitreya and a delicate artwork of cliff stone-carving in the Tang Dynasty. It was created with the belief that it would watch over and protect everyone along the three rivers that flow through the area.
Not to forget, Leshan is not celebrated solely for its Buddhism impacts or the religious establishments. The destination’s rich cultural heritage is marked by relics that date back to early human civilisation, tracing its development from ancient times to the modern-day. Having served as a hub of trades and transport since one of China’s earliest periods, the city continues to progress with a fine mix of nature, heritage, and industry.
Pay a visit to Leshan, Sichuan, China to feel the Buddha’s majesty and experience the charm of the city yourself!
Leshan, China is the featured destination of Virtual PATA Travel Mart 2021, check out the event page and rewatch the event recordings to learn more!
