Chengdu to Leshan: Train, Bus | Prices & Schedules

There are 2 way(s) to get from Chengdu to Leshan

Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.

Train (China Railway)

🚌 Departure from Chengdu

📍The main departure point for trains to Leshan is Chengdu East Railway Station (Chengdudong). This is one of China's largest and most modern high-speed rail hubs, featuring numerous platforms, waiting areas, and amenities.

🚇Chengdu East is well-connected by Metro Line 2 and Line 7, making it easily accessible from most parts of the city. A metro ride from the city center typically takes 20-30 minutes and costs around 2-4 CNY. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also readily available, costing 30-50 CNY.

⏰Trains to Leshan depart frequently throughout the day, typically every 15-30 minutes, starting from early morning (around 6:30 AM) until late evening (around 9:30 PM).

Practical tips

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Book Trains in Advance

Especially during holidays or weekends, popular high-speed trains can sell out quickly. Booking a few days ahead, or even a week if traveling during a major festival, gives you peace of mind and secures your preferred time.

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Verify Station Names Carefully

Chengdu has multiple train stations. For Leshan, trains typically depart from Chengdu East (Chengdudong). Always double-check your ticket for the exact station to avoid turning up at the wrong one.

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Use Online Booking Platforms

Booking train tickets from abroad is simple with platforms like 12go.asia or Baolau.vn. They handle the passport requirements and often offer e-tickets or clear instructions for collection, bypassing language barriers.

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Consider Second Class for Value

For journeys like Chengdu to Leshan, Second Class on high-speed trains offers excellent comfort and value. First Class provides a bit more space but isn't essential for such a short trip. Save your budget!

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Arrive Early for Departures

China's stations are large and require security checks. Aim to arrive at least 45-60 minutes before your train's departure to allow ample time for navigation, ticket collection (if needed), and boarding.

🛣️ The journey experience

Traveling from Chengdu to Leshan to see the Giant Buddha is a classic and highly recommended day trip. The good news is that for this relatively short journey, you have straightforward and efficient options. Knowing which one to pick depends on your preference for speed versus cost, and how much you value directness.

Your main choices are the high-speed train or a direct bus. The train is incredibly fast, getting you there in about an hour for roughly 8€. Buses take a bit longer, around 2 hours, and cost a similar 8€. Both are excellent for comfort and punctuality, reflecting China's modern transport infrastructure. Consider your onward travel too – are you returning to Chengdu or heading elsewhere?

Don't let the vastness of China's transport network intimidate you. For this particular route, booking your train ticket a day or two in advance is usually sufficient, though during peak seasons, booking a few days ahead is always a smart move to avoid sell-outs. You can easily book these tickets online from abroad via trusted platforms, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure without any last-minute stress about local IDs or finding the right station.

Frequently asked questions — Chengdu → Leshan

Is this leg best by high-speed train, plane, bus or ferry? +

How long does the bullet train really take, and how much? +

How far ahead should I book, and can I do it from abroad? +

Which station does the train leave from, and which class? +

Is there a cheaper bus or a ferry worth taking instead? +

✨ Why visit Leshan?

✓ Marvel at the Leshan Giant Buddha, the world's largest stone Buddha statue carved into a cliffside.
✓ Explore Lingyun Temple and Wuyou Temple for ancient architecture and serene views.
✓ Take a scenic boat trip on the Min River for panoramic views of the Giant Buddha and surrounding landscape.
✓ Hike Mount Emei (Emeishan), a sacred Buddhist mountain and UNESCO World Heritage site near Leshan.
✓ Savor local Sichuan cuisine, especially spicy dishes and traditional snacks like tofu pudding.

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Recommended stay

1 to 2 nights — sufficient to explore the Giant Buddha and surrounding attractions thoroughly.

☀️ When to visit Leshan?

SUBTROPICAL HUMID

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) — pleasant temperatures and less rainfall, ideal for outdoor activities.

Jan 😐

Feb 😐

Mar 😐

Apr 😊

May 😊

Jun 😐

Jul 😞

Aug 😞

Sep 😐

Oct 😊

Nov 😐

Dec 😐

What to do in Leshan?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE

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Leshan Giant Buddha

Marvel at the colossal Leshan Giant Buddha, carved into a cliff face overlooking three rivers. This UNESCO site is breathtaking from above and below. For the best views and to avoid crowds, try to visit early morning. The boat tour offers a full perspective of this ancient marvel for around 10€.

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Oriental Buddha Park

Explore the adjacent Oriental Buddha Park, home to thousands of smaller Buddha statues and intricate carvings. It's a vast complex that complements the main Buddha experience. Allow at least 2 hours for a thorough visit. Admission is usually included with the Giant Buddha ticket, or a small separate fee.

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River Cruise Leshan Buddha

Take a scenic river cruise to view the Leshan Giant Buddha from the water. This perspective offers an unmatched sense of its immense scale and is less strenuous than walking down. Boats depart frequently near the main entrance. Expect to pay around 10€ per person for the 30-minute round trip.

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Sichuan Street Food Hunt

Dive into Leshan's vibrant street food scene, especially known for its spicy Sichuan flavors. Don't miss Bobo Ji (cold chicken skewers in chili oil) and spicy Tofu. Head to Renmin Road for a concentrated area of local eateries. Most dishes are incredibly affordable, often under 5€ per serving.

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Wuyou Temple Exploration

Cross the small bridge to Wuyou Temple, nestled on a hill opposite the Giant Buddha. This tranquil Buddhist monastery offers stunning views of the confluence of rivers and a peaceful escape. It's much quieter than the main site. Entry is typically included with the main ticket, or a nominal fee.

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Tea House Culture Experience

Immerse yourself in local culture at a traditional Leshan tea house. Enjoy a cup of authentic Sichuan tea, watch locals play Mahjong, and soak in the relaxed atmosphere. Many teahouses can be found near the city center or along the rivers. A pot of tea usually costs a few euros.

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Local Riverside Stroll

Take an evening stroll along the riverside promenades, especially near the Giant Buddha area. The Buddha is illuminated at night, offering a different, ethereal perspective. It's a great way to experience local life, with families and vendors out. This activity is free and offers great photo opportunities.

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Lingyun Mountain Hiking

Venture beyond the immediate Buddha site and explore the trails of Lingyun Mountain, where the Buddha is carved. You'll find smaller temples, ancient trees, and peaceful viewpoints. It’s an ideal escape for nature lovers seeking tranquility. Wear comfortable shoes. Access is included with the Giant Buddha ticket.

⏱️ How long to visit Leshan?

1 to 2 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 1 to 2 days are ideal to explore Leshan. A full day allows seeing the Giant Buddha and surrounding temples. With two days, you can add Mount Emei for a more comprehensive spiritual and natural experience.

Other trips from Chengdu

Chengdu → Beijing 2h 30min · From 80€ Chengdu → Chongqing 1h 35min · From 14€ Chengdu → Guilin 1h 30min · From 55€ Chengdu → Kunming 1h 30min · From 18€ Chengdu → Lhasa 2h 30min · From 80€ Chengdu → Shanghai 2h 30min · From 80€ Chengdu → Xian 1h 30min · From 18€ Chengdu → Zhangjiajie 1h 30min · From 18€

How to get from Chengdu to Leshan

🗺️ Route & distance: Chengdu → Leshan