Located in the Sichuan province, the massive stone Buddha overlooking the Dadu river sits near Leshan city. This giant Buddha statue is 71 meters tall, making it the world’s largest stone-carved Buddha statue.
Leshan Buddha has it back on mount Emi, an area of immense cultural significance regarding where Buddhism was first established in Chinese territory.
Guangxiang Temple was the first temple built in mount Emi in the 1st century. There are 30 other temples, including the wannian temple built in the 4th century. Wannian temple has an 8-meter tall puxian bronze Buddha statue installed in the 10th century. Additionally, garden temples, pavilions and towers scattered on the mountain dates from the 6th century helped turn the mountain into one of Buddhism’s holiest places.
The Leshan Buddha is a seated “Maitreya Buddha”, which translates to “an individual on the path to becoming a Buddha” the fascinating fact about this stone-carved statue is its advanced drainage system. Behind Buddha’s head and between his ears and several other hidden gutters and channels scattered in his hair, collar, and chest have been carrying out rainwater to keep the inner areas dry. This advanced drainage system has helped prevent Buddha from eroding over 1200 years.
China is a land with many mesmerizing ancient attractions, and it is a bucket list destination. Visiting China will be an excellent experience for explorers especially. Make sure you have a pre-planned itinerary to China that ticks off the greatest attractions in the cities you set foot on.
