1 Day Chengdu Panda and Leshan Giant Buddha Tour

Morning | Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base

Early in the morning, your private English-speaking guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel and drive to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, located in the lush northern suburbs of the city.

Here, you will have a close look at giant pandas of different ages, watching them enjoy bamboo meals, tumble playfully, climb trees, and relax in their naturalistic enclosures. Morning is the most active time for pandas, making it ideal for photography.

You will also visit the Panda Nursery, where you may see female pandas nursing their cubs, and explore the Panda Museum, which offers insightful information about panda conservation, breeding programs, and scientific research. A leisurely walk through the bamboo gardens adds to the peaceful atmosphere of the visit.

Late Morning | Drive to Leshan

After the panda visit, travel by expressway to Leshan City (approximately 2 hours). Along the way, enjoy views of Sichuan’s countryside.

Midday | Lunch in Leshan

Enjoy a local Leshan-style lunch, known for its distinctive Sichuan flavors and regional specialties.

Afternoon | Leshan Giant Buddha Exploration

After lunch, begin your visit to the magnificent Leshan Giant Buddha, carved into the red sandstone cliff of Lingyun Mountain at the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu, and Qingyi Rivers.

Start at Lingyun Temple, built to honor Monk Haitong, who initiated the construction of the Buddha over a thousand years ago to calm the turbulent waters and protect passing boats.

Then, walk down the zigzagging cliffside stairway along the left side of the Buddha, descending from its head to its massive feet. Standing at the foot of the statue, you will fully appreciate its incredible scale—71 meters tall, with toes large enough to seat several people.

Continue hiking up the path on the right side of the Buddha, offering excellent viewpoints overlooking Leshan City and the dramatic river junction below.

Later, enjoy a peaceful walk to Wuyou Temple, where you can admire the impressive statues of the 500 Arhats, each with unique expressions and postures, reflecting Buddhist teachings and artistry.

Late Afternoon | Return to Chengdu

After the visit, drive back to Chengdu and transfer you to your hotel or airport. Service ends.