Overview
This 3-day high-speed rail (HSR) circuit is the ultimate Sichuan “Power Route.” It bridges the gap between Chengdu’s urban charm and the region’s spiritual highlands.
You’ll start with the city’s cultural heavyweights, pandas and opera, before heading south to witness the world’s largest stone Buddha. The journey culminates at the Golden Summit of Mount Emei, one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China.
It’s a route designed for those who want to see the “Big Three” of Sichuan without wasting a second in traffic.
Highlights
- Visit Chengdu Panda Base during peak activity hours
- Experience traditional Shu embroidery craftsmanship
- Explore Jinli Street and enjoy Sichuan Opera face-changing
- See the world-famous Leshan Giant Buddha
- Taste authentic Sichuan local food in Leshan
- Discover Mount Emei’s scenic and spiritual landscapes
- Travel efficiently by high-speed train
Itinerary
Day 1: Chengdu Panda Base → Shu Embroidery → Jinli Street → Sichuan Opera
The Experience:
We begin at 7:30 AM at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding to catch the bears at their most playful.
After the morning fluff, we shift to the refined beauty of the Shu Embroidery Museum to see silk art that takes years to complete.
As evening nears, we stroll the red-lantern-lined Jinli Ancient Street for a snack safari, finishing the night with a high-energy Sichuan Opera performance featuring fire-breathing and the legendary “Face-Changing.”
Highlights:
- Giant Panda and Red Panda viewing.
- Traditional Shu embroidery masterclass.
- Sichuan Opera (Bian Lian) performance.
Tips:
- Arrive early for panda viewing
- Book opera tickets in advance
- Jinli is best explored in the evening
Day 2: Chengdu (HSR) → Leshan Giant Buddha → Local Food → Mount Emei
The Experience:
We board a morning High-Speed Rail (HSR) to Leshan.
Here, you’ll encounter the Giant Buddha, carved directly into a cliffside over 1,300 years ago. After marvelling at his 7-meter-long ears, we dive into Leshan’s city center.
Locals say “the best food in Chengdu is actually in Leshan”. We’ll try sweet-skinned duck and “Qiaojiao” beef.
In the late afternoon, another quick HSR hop brings us to the foot of Mount Emei to check in and prepare for the mountain.
Highlights:
- Leshan Giant Buddha (walking or boat options).
- Local Leshan food tour.
Tips:
- Take the river boat if you want the best “full-body” photo of the Buddha without climbing the steep stairs.
- Try the “Sweet-Skinned Duck” (Tianpi Ya). It’s the local rival to Peking Duck.
Day 3: Mount Emei → Chengdu (HSR)
The Experience:
We rise early to take the park’s eco-bus and cable car up to the Golden Summit (Jinding). At 3,077 meters, you’ll stand before the massive, multi-faced golden statue of Samantabhadra. If the weather is clear, you’ll witness a “sea of clouds” stretching toward the Himalayas.
We’ll explore the bronze and silver temples before descending.
In the afternoon, we catch the HSR back to Chengdu, arriving in time for a final city dinner.
Highlights:
- 48-meter tall Golden Buddha statue.
- Sea of Clouds and Buddhist temple architecture.
- High-altitude mountain vistas.
Tips:
- Beware of the wild monkeys! Keep your snacks hidden and bags zipped tight.
- Rent a thick coat at the summit if you didn’t bring one; it is freezing at the top even in summer.
Accommodation
- Chengdu: 1 Night
- Emei: 1 Night
Our standard selection features Comfort-tier hotels: highly rated, modern escapes handpicked for their prime locations.
For this route, we’ve planned strategic stays in downtown Chengdu for seamless transit and at the foot of Mount Emei, ensuring you’re perfectly positioned for an early start toward the summit.
Seeking something more personal? We offer fully customizable stays, from authentic boutique hideaways to world-class luxury retreats. Simply share your travel style, and we will curate a list of properties that perfectly match your vision and budget.
Cost
Included
- All High-Speed Rail tickets (Chengdu–Leshan–Emei–Chengdu)
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Private local transfers
- Accommodation in Chengdu (1 night) and Emei (1 night)
- Breakfast at hotels
- All attraction entrance fees (Panda Base, Leshan Buddha, Emei Mountain)
Excluded
- International/Domestic flights
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal travel insurance
- Optional cable cars in Mt. Emei
- Optional shuttle buses in Leshan Giant Buddha
- Optional boat view in Leshan Giant Buddha
- Other optional activities
- Personal expenses
- Tips for guides/drivers
Transportation
- Chengdu → Leshan → Emei → Chengdu: High-speed train
- Chengdu city: Private transfer
Essential Tips
- Be prepared for some walking, especially at Mount Emei
- Mount Emei is famous for its mist. Even if it’s raining at the base, the Golden Summit can be sunny. Always check the summit camera before heading up!
- We recommend leaving your heavy suitcases at your Chengdu hotel and taking a small overnight bag to Mount Emei.
Gallery
FAQ
Can we see the Giant Buddha by boat?
Yes. We can arrange a boat trip that takes about 30 minutes and offers panoramic views of the Buddha and the “Sleeping Buddha” hills.
Is Mount Emei a difficult climb?
While pilgrims walk for days, our route uses the cable car to reach the summit, making it accessible for anyone with basic mobility. There are still some stairs at the top to reach the various temples.
Is this itinerary too rushed?
It is a full 3 days, but the use of High-Speed Rail makes it very efficient. If you prefer a “Slow Life” pace, we recommend adding one extra day to stay overnight on the mountain.
Can I visit Leshan Giant Buddha and Mount Emei in one trip?
Yes, they are close to each other and commonly combined in a 2–3 day itinerary.
What is the best way to see Leshan Giant Buddha?
Both walking and boat views are popular; boat views offer a full perspective.
Is this itinerary suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes, it covers Sichuan’s top highlights in a short and efficient route.
