The Leshan Giant Buddha China
The Leshan Giant Buddha is a truly spectacular sight, and a must-see attraction for anyone planning a trip to China. This awe-inspiring statue is one of the largest stone Buddha statues in the world, standing at an impressive 233 feet tall and located in the mountainside near the city of Leshan in Sichuan Province.
The Buddha is an incredible feat of engineering and construction, taking over 90 years to build from start to finish. It is believed to have been built between the 7th and 9th centuries AD, and is carved entirely out of a massive sandstone cliff that overlooks the confluence of three rivers. The statue is so large that it is said to have altered the flow of the river, making it a sight to behold.
There are many legends surrounding the Leshan Giant Buddha, with the most popular being that it was built to calm the turbulent waters at the confluence of the rivers, which were thought to be causing accidents and drowning in the area. Another legend has it that a monk named Haitong began the construction of the Buddha as a way to earn the support of the people to help him in his fight against corruption and warlords in the area.
Regardless of the legend you choose to believe, the Leshan Giant Buddha is a true testament to the ingenuity and devotion of the Chinese people, and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and engineering.
History of the Leshan Giant Buddha
The construction of the Leshan Giant Buddha began in the Tang Dynasty (618-907), and was completed during the massive spread of Buddhism in China during the Song Dynasty (960-1279). The statue was commissioned by Haitong, a Buddhist monk, as a way to calm the turbulent waters at the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers. These rivers had been causing numerous accidents and drowning incidents, making it an important task to calm them.
Haitong initially began the construction of the Buddha in the 8th century, but died before it was completed. Construction was then resumed by a disciple of Haitong's, named Jingyun, who completed the Buddha in 803 AD.
Over the years, the Leshan Giant Buddha has undergone numerous restoration projects, with the most recent being completed in 2001. The statue has survived earthquakes, floods, and erosion, making it a truly remarkable piece of art and architecture.
Travel Tips for Visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha
If you're planning a trip to China, make sure to add the Leshan Giant Buddha to your itinerary. Here are some travel tips to help you get the most out of your visit:
Getting There:
- By air - The nearest airport to the Leshan Giant Buddha is the Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, which is around 150 km away. You can take a taxi or bus from the airport to Leshan.
- By train - There are several high-speed trains that run from Chengdu to Leshan, which takes around 1-2 hours.
- By bus - There are also buses that run from Chengdu and other cities in Sichuan Province to Leshan.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha is from April to October, when the weather is warm and dry. Avoid visiting during the peak tourist season in July and August, as the crowds can be overwhelming.
Ticket Prices:
As of 2021, the entrance fee for the Leshan Giant Buddha is 90 RMB (approximately $14 USD).
Plan Your Visit:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking and climbing involved.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially if you're visiting during the summer months.
- Expect large crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
- Plan to spend at least half a day at the site to fully explore and appreciate the statue and surrounding area.
Other Things to See and Do in the Area:
If you have time, there are several other attractions worth visiting near the Leshan Giant Buddha:
- Mount Emei - A sacred mountain and UNESCO World Heritage Site located just 30 km away from the Buddha. It's a popular destination for hiking and exploring the many temples and monasteries located on the mountain.
- Lingyun Temple - A historic temple located near the Buddha, and the site where Haitong is said to have begun the construction of the statue.
- Qianfoya Cliff Carving - A series of ancient Buddha statues carved into the side of a cliff, located not far from the Leshan Giant Buddha.
The Leshan Giant Buddha is an impressive and historic site that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits. With its rich history, engineering feats, and beautiful surroundings, it is a must-see attraction for anyone traveling to China.
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