Embracing the Serenity of Leshan’s Clear Skies

As the sun rises over Leshan on November 30th, the city is bathed in a gentle glow, promising a day of exploration under clear skies. The weather is perfect for outdoor adventures, with temperatures ranging from a cool 46.8°F in the morning to a comfortable 59.3°F in the afternoon. This is an ideal day to embark on the Panda and Buddha Tour, a journey that intertwines the natural beauty of China’s wildlife with its rich spiritual heritage.

Begin your day early, as the tour starts at 7:00 AM, ensuring you catch the pandas during their most active hours. The Giant Panda Breeding Research Base is a haven for these adorable creatures, and witnessing them in their playful morning routines is a heartwarming experience. As you wander through the lush park, you’ll encounter not only giant pandas but also the charming red pandas, and if you’re lucky, the sight of baby pandas in the nursery.

After a morning filled with panda antics, the tour takes you on a scenic drive to the Leshan Giant Buddha. This colossal statue, carved into the cliffs at the confluence of three rivers, stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and spiritual devotion of ancient China. As you gaze upon the Buddha, you’ll be transported back in time, marveling at the dedication it took to complete this masterpiece over 90 years.

“This was the best experience of my life!” - Reviewed on 2024-09-28

A Cultural Tapestry in Leshan’s Ancient Towns

On December 1st, the weather shifts slightly to partly cloudy, but the day remains perfect for cultural exploration. With temperatures hovering around 59.6°F, it’s a comfortable day to delve into the heart of Leshan’s traditional life with the Buddha and Tea Village Tour.

This immersive experience begins at 8:00 AM, whisking you away to the Leshan Giant Buddha once more, but this time from a different perspective. A boat trip offers a unique vantage point, allowing you to appreciate the Buddha’s grandeur from the water. As you sail past, the mountain seems to unveil the Buddha, a sight that is both humbling and awe-inspiring.

The journey continues into a nearby ancient town, where time seems to stand still. Here, you’ll wander through streets lined with old workshops, sip tea in a house that has been serving since the Qing Dynasty, and engage with locals who share stories of their heritage. This is a chance to experience the authentic rhythms of life in Sichuan, away from the usual tourist trails.

“Imagine drinking tea with a matriarch, hand-picked moments earlier, and dried and prepared by her.” - Reviewed on 2024-04-14

Tea Picking and Traditions in the Heart of Sichuan

The afternoon of December 1st offers a unique opportunity to connect with the land and its traditions. The Tea Village Tour takes you to the Jiajiang Tianfu Tea Plantation, where the art of tea picking and making is revealed in its most authentic form.

Led by a local tea farmer, you’ll learn the delicate process of selecting the finest leaves, a skill passed down through generations. The experience is not just about picking tea; it’s about understanding the cultural significance of tea in Sichuan. As you participate in the tea-making process, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for this ancient craft.

The day concludes with a visit to the farmer’s home, where you’ll be welcomed into a world of tradition and hospitality. Here, you’ll see how tea is made by hand, a practice that has remained unchanged for centuries. This intimate encounter with local life is a fitting end to a weekend of cultural exploration and natural beauty in Leshan.

“Great way to see the Buddha!” - Reviewed on 2023-11-06