2-Day All Inclusive Leshan Giant Buddha and Emei Mountain Tour

The 2-Day All Inclusive Leshan Giant Buddha and Emei Mountain Tour offers an immersive taste of some of China’s most revered Buddhist sites, all from the comfort of a well-organized, thoughtfully paced itinerary. Starting from Chengdu, this journey takes you on a scenic high-speed train ride, whisking you away to explore the monumental Leshan Giant Buddha and the spiritual heights of Mt. Emei. With a price of $489 per person, it’s a package that balances convenience, depth, and value, especially considering that it includes all entrance fees, transportation, and even hotel pickup.

What we love most about this experience are two key aspects: first, the opportunity to ascend Mt. Emei via cable car and see the impressive gold-plated Puxian Buddha up close, and second, the chance to stand at the feet of the Leshan Giant Buddha, carved from a cliff face and facing three rivers. These are both must-see sights that combine breathtaking views with cultural significance.

A potential drawback might be the tight schedule—eight hours on the first day and about three on the second—meaning you won’t have a lot of free time for spontaneous exploration or relaxing at leisure. Still, for those who enjoy a well-curated, efficient tour that hits highlights without sacrificing depth, this is a strong choice.

This tour is especially well-suited for travelers who value authentic cultural experiences combined with comfortable logistics. If you’re eager to see China’s famous Buddhist monuments, appreciate scenic rides, and prefer guided insights to self-navigation, this tour will serve you well.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: Entrance fees, transportation, and hotel pickup are covered, making planning straightforward.
• Scenic & spiritual highlights: Visit the Leshan Giant Buddha and Mt. Emei, two of China’s most treasured cultural landmarks.
• Comfortable transportation: High-speed train, sightseeing bus, cable cars—no strenuous walking necessary.
• Authentic experiences: Visit historic temples like Baoguo Temple and enjoy serene Buddhist atmospheres.
• Expert guides: Private English-speaking guides enhance understanding and ensure smooth transitions.
• Great for limited time: The two-day schedule packs in major sights without feeling rushed.

In-Depth Tour Review: Discovering the Heart of Chengdu’s Sacred Sites

The Convenience of the All-Inclusive Package

One of the most appealing aspects of this tour is its convenience. For $489, you’re covered from the moment you’re picked up at your hotel in Chengdu to your return. This means no fuss over train tickets, transportation logistics, or entrance lines—your guide handles all that. If you’re like us, that kind of hassle-free planning makes the experience more enjoyable and less stressful, especially when traveling in a foreign country.

Day 1: Mount Emei – A Journey into Serenity and Artistry

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Chengdu, followed by a quick transfer to the high-speed train station. The train ride of about 1 hour 20 minutes whisks you through lush Chengdu countryside, a moving reminder of rural China’s quiet beauty. During this journey, you get a glimpse of daily life—locals commuting, farmers tending fields, a slice of authentic life often missed by travelers shuttling by car.

Upon arrival, you’ll board a sightseeing bus that takes you to Leidongping, the highest parking lot on Mt. Emei, about 1.5 hours drive away. Here begins your 30-minute hike to the cable car station, which lifts you up to the Golden Summit—a jaw-dropping sight. The 48-meter tall gold-plated Puxian Buddha, weighing 660 tons, commands the mountaintop and offers a divine photo opportunity. Surrounding it are golden, silver, and bronze palaces, within which exquisite statues and Buddhist relics await.

What makes this stop truly special is the combination of natural grandeur and spiritual artistry. We loved the way the golden Buddha gleams against the mountain’s rugged backdrop and how the temples’ intricate sculptures tell stories of faith. You’ll also appreciate the guided commentary, which enriches your understanding of Buddhist symbolism and the mountain’s religious significance.

Descending by cable car and bus, you arrive at the Baoguo Temple, a centuries-old monastery that exudes tranquility. Visiting late in the afternoon means fewer travelers, allowing for a more authentic, contemplative experience. The nearby boutique hotel, right next to Baoguo Temple, offers a peaceful overnight retreat—perfect for soaking in the serene Buddhist atmosphere.

Day 2: The Magnificence of Leshan Giant Buddha

The second day begins with a comfortable drive—about 40 minutes—to the Leshan Giant Buddha, a marvel carved from a cliff face, facing the convergence of three rivers. We loved the way this enormous sculpture seems to gaze across the landscape, a testament to ancient craftsmanship.

Climbing 333 steps to the top of Lingyun Hill is an adventure in itself, offering panoramic views of the three rivers’ confluence and the surrounding mountains. Inside Lingyun Temple, you find exquisite sculptures and murals, giving you a sense of the spiritual art that has inspired visitors for centuries.

Descending along the red sands of the cliff, you get close-up views of the feet of the Buddha—a sight that’s both impressive and humbling. If queues to descend are long, there’s the option to skip the line and take a river cruise for a wider perspective—though the cruise is at your own expense, about which your guide will advise.

A highlight, according to previous reviews, is the stunning view from the top and the opportunity to stand beneath this colossal figure, which measures about 71 meters tall and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Value of Guided Expertise and Logistics

Having a private English-speaking guide makes all the difference in understanding the historical and spiritual contexts of these sites. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Lily for their punctuality, flexibility, and helpfulness. This personalized attention enhances your experience far beyond what self-guided visits or group tours can offer.

Transportation logistics are so well managed that you’ll rarely worry about navigating busy Chinese transit systems. The tour’s all-inclusive approach means that you’re free to focus on soaking in views, exploring temples, and enjoying peaceful moments in sacred grounds.

Authenticity and Cultural Immersion

Beyond the sights, this tour offers a glimpse into local life and Buddhist traditions. Visiting temples during off-peak hours, and staying next to Baoguo Temple, allows for a more authentic experience—something busy, self-guided travelers might miss.

Practical Considerations: Price and Booking

At $489 per person, this tour is a solid investment. When you consider all entrance fees, transportation, high-speed train fares, and hotel pickup, the package offers great value—especially compared to self-organized trips with separate costs.

However, booking well in advance is recommended, as the tour’s availability depends on high-speed train tickets and popular travel dates. The tour’s reviews show that travelers book about 61 days ahead, confirming its appeal.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience fits travelers who want a guided, comprehensive view of China’s sacred sites without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s ideal for those who appreciate scenic views, cultural insights, and authentic temple visits. If you prefer a leisurely pace, with some walking and hiking but also convenient transportation, this tour delivers.

It’s especially perfect for first-time visitors wanting an intimate introduction to Chengdu’s Buddhist heritage, and those seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural depth, and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, as transportation is arranged, and walking is manageable with cable cars and buses. However, those with mobility issues should consider the number of stairs involved.

What is included in the price?
The package covers all entrance fees, round-trip train fares, hotel pickup and drop-off, private English-speaking guide, meals (breakfast and two lunches), and transportation within the sites.

Are accommodations provided?
Yes, you stay overnight at a boutique hotel next to Baoguo Temple. The price is based on two people sharing a room, with single room supplements available.

Can I customize the tour?
Since this is a private tour, your guide can often accommodate small changes or preferences, but any major modifications should be discussed beforehand with the local operator.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for a day of walking and mild outdoor weather is best. Remember, temples are sacred, so modest, respectful attire is recommended.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Early booking is strongly recommended, as high-speed train seats and popular travel dates tend to fill quickly. Most travelers book about two months ahead.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day tour offers an excellent way to experience the grandeur of Leshan’s Giant Buddha and Mt. Emei without the stress of solo planning. It’s particularly suited for travelers who value guided insights, seamless logistics, and cultural authenticity. The combination of scenic rides, historic temples, and spiritual monuments makes it a memorable journey into China’s Buddhist heartland.

While the schedule is quite packed, the experience delivers a satisfying blend of natural beauty and spiritual depth. If you’re looking for a well-organized, value-packed tour that showcases some of China’s most iconic sites, this tour definitely deserves your consideration.

Additional Resources

• Viator’s 2-Day Leshan and Emei Tour

This detailed review aims to help you understand what makes this tour special, what to expect at each stage, and whether it fits your travel style. Happy planning!