Embracing Leshan’s Spiritual and Natural Wonders

Leshan, a city where spirituality and nature intertwine, offers a unique blend of experiences that are perfect for a weekend getaway. As the weather transitions from cloudy to rainy, the city reveals its mystical charm, inviting travelers to explore its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. On February 1st, start your day with the Panda and Buddha Tour, which begins at 8:00 AM. This tour takes you to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, where you can witness the playful antics of these adorable creatures. Arriving early increases your chances of seeing pandas during their breakfast and playtime, making it a delightful experience for animal lovers.

After spending the morning with the pandas, the tour continues with a visit to the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This 71-meter-tall statue, carved out of a rock mountain, stands majestically at the confluence of three rivers. As you marvel at this architectural wonder, you’ll learn about the philosophy of Buddhism and the stories behind this impressive monument. The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Chengdu, allowing you to reflect on the day’s adventures.

“Highly recommended - We had a full day excursion to see the Panda base reserve and the Giant Buddha. Our guide was punctual, kind, and provided us with all the information we needed covering both activities and general information about Chengdu and China.” (Reviewed on 2024-10-28)

Discovering Leshan’s Hidden Gems

On February 2nd, embrace the mixed weather conditions by exploring Leshan’s hidden gems. Begin your day with the Buddha and Tea Village Tour, starting at 8:00 AM. This immersive experience takes you beyond the touristy spots, offering a glimpse into the local life and culture. The tour begins with a boat trip to the Leshan Giant Buddha, providing a spectacular view from the water. As you sail past this iconic statue, you’ll appreciate the intricate details and craftsmanship that went into its creation.

After the boat trip, the tour takes you to a nearby ancient town, where you can explore traditional Chinese courtyards, handcraft shops, and a local food market. This is a time traveler’s journey, allowing you to experience the authentic culture and lifestyle of the region. Enjoy a mini foodie tour, sampling local snacks and sipping tea in a historic tea house that dates back to the Qing Dynasty.

“Imagine drinking tea with a matriarch, hand-picked moments earlier, and dried and prepared by her. This was a phenomenally rich cultural experience curated by a local guide who understands and cares about the tea-economy and the broader cultural gifts Sichuan has to offer visitors.” (Reviewed on 2024-04-14)

Tea Picking and Cultural Immersion

As the afternoon sun peeks through the clouds, the tour continues to the Jiajiang Tianfu Tea Plantation. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to pick tea leaves and learn about the traditional methods of tea production. Led by a local tea farmer, this hands-on experience offers a deeper understanding of Sichuan’s tea culture. You’ll also visit the farmer’s home, where you’ll learn how to make tea by hand, creating a unique souvenir to take home.

The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Chengdu, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking views of the tea plantations and the surrounding countryside. This immersive experience not only enriches your understanding of Leshan’s cultural heritage but also provides a sense of tranquility and mindfulness amidst the changing weather.

“Great way to see the Buddha! We really enjoyed our tour guide, who was very knowledgeable about the sights and the local history. The boat tour to the Buddha was great - a spectacular viewpoint from the water.” (Reviewed on 2023-11-06)