Introduction of Leshan and the Giant Buddha Statue

Near the historic city of Leshan in southwest China’s Sichuan Province stands one of the world’s most extraordinary Buddhist monuments—the Leshan Giant Buddha. A scenic boat cruise offers visitors the best panoramic views of this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site, allowing close-up photographs of the colossal stone statue overlooking the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers. Carved directly into a cliff face, the Giant Buddha rises approximately 71 meters (233 feet) high, making it the largest ancient stone Buddha statue in the world.

Construction of the Leshan Giant Buddha began in AD 713 during the Tang Dynasty under the direction of the monk Master Haitong and was completed nearly 90 years later in AD 803. According to historical records, the project was intended to calm the dangerous river currents that threatened passing boats, while local legend tells of efforts to subdue the river’s turbulent spirit. The statue also features an ingenious internal drainage system designed to reduce rainwater erosion, a remarkable engineering achievement that has helped preserve the monument for more than 1,200 years. Together with nearby Mount Emei, the Leshan Giant Buddha was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1996 and continues to receive international conservation support.

One of the most enduring legends associated with the monument concerns Master Haitong’s unwavering determination. According to tradition, when a corrupt official attempted to seize funds donated for the Buddha’s construction, Haitong declared that his eyes could be taken but the Buddha’s money could not. The story recounts that he proved his devotion by sacrificing his own eyes, causing the official to flee in fear. Whether viewed as history or legend, this tale reflects the deep faith and commitment that inspired the creation of one of China’s greatest cultural treasures.

Climate of Leshan

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