Leshan’s 15 Best Tours & Experiences

Leshan is a treasure trove for travelers eager to explore impressive monuments, rich culture, and local culinary delights. The city’s most famous attraction, the Leshan Giant Buddha, is a must-see and the centerpiece of many tours, but it’s just the start. Whether you want a private, in-depth experience, a quick ticket to the giant, or a mix of scenic hikes and local food, Leshan offers a range of memorable adventures. For example, the Private Tour to Leshan Giant Buddha & Huanglongxi Old Town offers a tailored day with a boat ride and exploration of 1700-year-old streets, blending history with rural charm. Meanwhile, tours like the Leshan Buddha boat and food half-day trip serve up a lively, foodie-focused perspective with guaranteed boat views. No matter your style, Leshan’s mix of giant statues, scenic beauty, and authentic flavors guarantees a trip rich in memorable moments.

Quick Overview

Our list features 15 carefully selected tours that showcase Leshan’s highlights. From private guided experiences like the Private Tour to Leshan Giant Buddha & Huanglongxi Old Town, to single-ticket access such as the Leshan Giant Buddha Ticket, each offers something unique. We include food-focused trips, cultural hikes, and full-day adventures like the Mount Emei Experience. Whether you’re tight on time or want an immersive journey, the options below will help you pick the right fit.

1. Private Tour to Leshan Giant Buddha & Huanglongxi Old Town

At number 1, this 8-hour private guided tour combines the awe of the world’s largest carved stone Buddha with an authentic stroll through Huanglongxi Ancient Town. Starting from Chengdu, your guide will customize the pace, ensuring no rushing through the 1700-year-old streets or the scenic boat ride offering different perspectives of the Leshan Giant Buddha. The tour includes a typical sightseeing schedule but is flexible enough for you to linger where you wish. Guests love the personalized service and the chance to experience both the grandeur of the Buddha and the peaceful charm of the old town without feeling hurried.

Bottom line: This is ideal for travelers seeking a private, tailored day with plenty of cultural and scenic highlights, all at a reasonable price for an exclusive experience.

2. Leshan: Leshan Giant Buddha Ticket

Number 2 on our list offers straightforward access to Leshan’s key sights—the Giant Buddha, Wuyou Temple, and Mahao Cliff Tombs. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage site lets you explore at your own pace, with the option of an optional boat ride to view the Buddha from the river or from above. The tickets are flexible, with opening hours from early morning to late afternoon depending on the season. Guests rave about how easy it is to enjoy the world’s largest stone Buddha without the hassle of waiting in long lines, especially with the option of a boat for dramatic panoramic shots.

Bottom line: If you prefer a flexible, self-guided visit with optional boat views, this ticket provides a hassle-free way to enjoy Leshan’s main attractions without added complexities.

3. Leshan Buddha boat and food half day trip

Number 3 blends iconic views with local flavor in a compact 4.5-hour experience. It features a guaranteed boat cruise that captures the largest Buddha in the world from the river—a stunning perspective—and immerses you in street food culture through a guided tour of local markets and eateries. The small group size (up to 8) fosters a friendly atmosphere where you can try eight different local delicacies. Travelers have praised guide Kris for being professional and attentive, making the day both fun and informative. The highlight is the boat tickets included—no worries about securing a spot—and the chance to taste authentic Leshan cuisine.

Bottom line: Perfect for foodies and those wanting a relaxed yet immersive half-day taste of Leshan’s natural and culinary scenes.

4. Mount Emei: Experience Natural Beauty and Buddhist Culture

Number 4 is a comprehensive day trip exploring Mount Emei, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. Your journey begins with a comfortable limousine transfer from Chengdu, followed by a day of hiking, sightseeing, and photography across scenic mountain trails. The tour offers multiple options tailored to your interests, whether that’s visiting ancient temples, enjoying panoramic mountain views, or simply soaking in the breathtaking natural scenery. Guests appreciate the easy booking process and the dedicated staff who help customize your experience. The trip balances cultural exploration with natural beauty, making it suitable for active travelers and those looking to combine spirituality with scenic photography.

Bottom line: If you want to combine hiking, cultural relics, and natural scenery in one day, this tour is a reliable choice with flexible options.

5. Leshan Giant Buddha Tour: Discover Ancient Stone Masterpiece

Rounding out the top five, this 1-day tour focuses on the largest cliff carving in China. It includes noteworthy self-guided sightseeing at the Giant Buddha with time for photos from various angles, plus a food tasting session, providing a taste of local cuisine. The tour is praised for its straightforward booking, with multiple options to match your pace and interests. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a balanced experience of sightseeing and food, with enough flexibility to explore or relax. One reviewer shared that the tour exceeded expectations, especially in discovering hidden corners of the site.

Bottom line: Great for those looking for a focused, hassle-free day exploring Leshan’s masterpiece and sampling local foods.

6. Leshan Giant Buddha Private Tour & Jurassic Expedition

Number 6 offers a 10-hour private adventure combining hiking through Alsophila Canyon with a boat trip for views of the Buddha—plus an exploration of dinosaur-era plants. The tour is unique in its Jurassic theme, featuring Cyathea Canyons and living fossils from the dinosaur period. The flexibility is a key feature: your itinerary is tailored to your interests, whether that’s more time hiking, sightseeing, or sampling local cuisine. The boat cruise provides perfect full-body photos of the statue, while the canyon hike adds an active dimension. It’s ideal for adventurers who want a more offbeat experience.

Bottom line: A top pick for travelers wanting a combination of outdoor hiking, biodiversity, and breathtaking views with a private guide.

7. Leshan Giant Buddha & Huanglongxi Ancient Town Day Tour

Number 7 is a full-day private tour blending the majestic Buddha with the charm of Huanglongxi Town. It offers all-inclusive transfers, tickets, and a boat tour for the Buddha, with ample time to explore Huanglongxi’s historic streets, sample local delicacies, and enjoy riverside views. It’s perfect for travelers who want a stress-free, comprehensive day that balances natural wonders with cultural exploration. The private guide ensures a relaxed pace, so you can linger or hurry as you prefer.

Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a complete day experience that mixes iconic sights with culture.

8. Chengdu to Leshan Buddha & Oriental Buddha Capital Private

Number 8 takes you on a private day tour featuring a boat cruise of the Leshan Giant Buddha, a visit to the Leshan Museum, and a journey to the Oriental Buddha Capital, home to over 3,000 Buddha statues. The flexible itinerary allows you to hike or explore the museum, giving you control over your day. The private, all-inclusive setup makes for a smooth experience, perfect for travelers who prefer customized activities and personal attention.

Bottom line: Best suited for art and culture lovers who want an interactive day with multiple viewpoints of Buddha.

9. Close to Chengdu: Leshan Giant Buddha & Tasty Local Eats

Number 9 offers a relaxed, private day trip from Chengdu, combining close-up views of the Buddha with visits to temples and a local old street packed with snacks and crafts. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience spiritual sites and local life without the crowds. The focus on authentic food and serene temples makes it a well-rounded choice for those interested in Sichuan culture.

Bottom line: Ideal for cultural explorers who want a personalized, off-the-beaten-path experience close to Chengdu.

10. Explore Leshan’s Gems: Boat Trip, Cultural Hike&Foodie Quest

Number 10 is a customizable 10-hour day trip blending natural scenery, cultural hikes, and local food. It includes a boat trip for a breathtaking view of the Buddha, a hike on Wuyou Mountain, and street food tastings. The flexible itinerary is perfect if you want to skip the crowds and tailor your experience to your interests. The tour’s focus on off-the-beaten-path sights and food makes it stand out.

Bottom line: For travelers wanting an immersive, personalized day exploring natural and culinary gems.

11. Leshan Giant Buddha Half Day Tour with Local BBQ Dinner

Number 11 is a short, punchy tour combining a half-day sightseeing of the Buddha from both boat and cliff paths with a locally famous BBQ dinner. While reviews are currently blank, the itinerary promises a rich cultural experience with insights into Buddhist history and local cuisine. It’s a great pick for food lovers who want to combine sightseeing with a delicious meal in the evening.

Bottom line: Well-suited for those who want a compact tour with authentic dining.

12. Chengdu: Leshan Giant Buddha and Kuanzhai Alley Day Tour

Number 12 offers a full-day experience starting from Chengdu, visiting Leshan’s giant statue and then exploring the historic Kuanzhai Alley. The tour includes hotel pickup, guided sightseeing, and shopping time—ideal for travelers wanting a combination of natural and urban culture. The tour is flexible, with a small group size ensuring a personalized experience.

Bottom line: Perfect for urban explorers who want to combine scenic monuments with local shopping and food.

13. Leshan, Sichuan: Leshan Giant Buddha Direct Entry Ticket

Number 13 provides a seamless entry experience—bypassing the ticket queue by swiping your passport. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want to save time and focus on the monument itself. The ticket grants access to the cliff-carved Buddha and nearby Tang Dynasty statues, making it a straightforward, no-fuss way to visit Leshan.

Bottom line: Best for travelers who want an easy, quick entry to Leshan’s main attraction with minimal hassle.

14. Leshan: Giant Buddha, Tea Village, and Old town Day Trip

Number 14 combines Leshan’s iconic Buddha with a tea-making experience in a 500-year-old village. The tour includes tea picking, tasting, and workshops, alongside visits to traditional courtyards. The private guide ensures you explore local stories and cultural crafts up close, making this a rich, sensory experience that appeals to culinary and cultural interests alike.

Bottom line: Perfect for tea enthusiasts and cultural explorers who want a personalized, immersive day.

15. Leshan: Mount Emei Ticket

Finally, the Mount Emei Ticket offers hiking trails, ancient temples, and stunning mountain vistas. The peak season runs from Jan 16 to Dec 14, giving plenty of opportunity to experience Buddhist relics and scenic walks. This ticket is suited for those wanting to walk among nature and enjoy spiritual landscapes.

Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers seeking mountain hikes and historic sites in a peaceful setting.

How to Choose Your Perfect Leshan Experience

When deciding which tour is right for you, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. If you prefer a personalized journey, the private tours like the Private Tour to Leshan Giant Buddha & Huanglongxi Old Town or Leshan Giant Buddha Private Tour & Jurassic Expedition offer flexibility. For food lovers, the Buddha boat and food trip and Giant Buddha & BBQ dinner provide delicious local tastings. If your schedule is tight, the single-ticket options like the Leshan Giant Buddha Ticket or the Direct Entry ticket help skip lines. Consider climate and seasonality—spring and autumn are ideal for outdoor hikes and temple visits, while winter can be quiet but colder.

Final Thoughts

Leshan offers a range of tours and experiences that cater to history buffs, foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, and cultural travelers alike. If you appreciate private, tailored experiences, the Private Tour to Leshan Giant Buddha & Huanglongxi Old Town provides a deeply personal day. For those after quick, hassle-free access, the single-entry tickets simplify your visit. Adventure seekers will enjoy the Jurassic Expedition or the Mount Emei trek, while food lovers will savor the local street food and barbecue tours.

To make the most of your trip, plan ahead and book early—these tours tend to fill up, especially during peak seasons. Whatever your style, Leshan’s blend of monuments, landscapes, and local flavors promises an engaging experience that’s well worth your time.