1. What is the Leshan Giant Buddha and why is it famous?
The Leshan Giant Buddha is a massive, 233-foot-tall stone statue of the Maitreya Buddha located in Sichuan Province, China. It was carved out of a cliff face overlooking the confluence of three rivers and is considered to be the largest carved stone Buddha in the world.
The statue is famous for its impressive size and detail, as well as its historical and cultural significance. It was built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907) by a Buddhist monk named Haitong, who hoped that the Buddha’s presence would calm the turbulent waters of the rivers below and protect passing ships from sinking. It also holds religious importance as an iconic representation of Buddhism in China and has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.
2. Are there any events or festivals that take place around the Leshan Giant Buddha?
Yes, there are a few events and festivals that take place around the Leshan Giant Buddha throughout the year.
1. Leshan Giant Buddha International Tourism Festival: This festival takes place in April every year and includes various cultural activities, performances, and exhibitions that showcase the rich history and culture of Leshan. It is a great opportunity to learn more about the area surrounding the Buddha.
2. Water Splashing Festival: This traditional festival is celebrated by the local Dai ethnic group on April 14th each year. The celebration involves water fights and splashing as a symbol of cleansing and renewal for the new year.
3. Lantern Festival: Also known as the Yuanxiao Festival, this event takes place on the 15th day of the first lunar month (usually in February). Lanterns are lit all around Leshan, including at the Leshan Giant Buddha, creating a beautiful display of light.
4. Dragon Boat Festival: Celebrated on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month (usually in June), this festival honors the ancient Chinese poet Qu Yuan with boat races and traditional food offerings such as zongzi.
5. Ghost Festival: Observed on July 15th according to the lunar calendar, this festival is believed to be when ghosts come back to visit their living relatives. People can be seen offering food and burning incense at temples near the Leshan Giant Buddha during this time.
6. Double Ninth Festival: Celebrated on September 9th according to the lunar calendar, this festival is also known as Chongyang Festival. Visitors can see traditional performances like dragon dances, lion dances, and stilt walking at Mount Emei near Leshan.
7. Spring in Emeishan Music Festival: Held in October or November every year, this music festival features live performances from both domestic and international artists against the backdrop of Mount Emei near Leshan.
In addition to these festivals, there are also occasional religious ceremonies and events that take place at the Leshan Giant Buddha throughout the year.
3. What are some popular bars and nightclubs in the area?
1. The Bunkhouse Saloon
2. Moon Doggies Bar and Grill
3. Las Vegas Lounge
4. Commonwealth
5. Velveteen Rabbit
6. Atomic Liquors
7. Gold Spike
8. Beauty Bar Las Vegas
9. Double Down Saloon
10. The Griffin
4. Is there a good music scene in Leshan near the Giant Buddha?
The music scene in Leshan is relatively limited compared to larger cities in China. However, there are still some venues and events that showcase local and regional musicians. As Leshan is a popular tourist destination because of the Giant Buddha, there may be some live music performances at bars or clubs near the attraction. Additionally, depending on the time of year, there may be music festivals or concerts held in Leshan. You can also check with locals or ask at your hotel for any recommendations on where to find live music in the area.
5. Are there any rooftop bars with views of the Leshan Giant Buddha?
Yes, there are a few rooftop bars in Leshan that offer views of the Leshan Giant Buddha. Some popular options include:
1. Leshan Giant Buddha Sky Bar: This rooftop bar is located on the 17th floor of the Lingguang Hotel and offers stunning views of the Giant Buddha and the surrounding area.
2. Caoxi Road Rooftop Bar: This cozy rooftop bar is situated on Caoxi Road and provides picturesque views of the Giant Buddha from a unique angle.
3. Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar: Located on the top floor of Apsaras Boutique Hotel, this bar offers a panoramic view of the city and the Giant Buddha in the distance.
4. Top Sky Bar: Situated within Howard Johnson Conference Resort Chengdu, this rooftop bar boasts an open-air balcony with breathtaking views of both Leshan City and the Giant Buddha.
5. Villa Gallery Cafe & Bar: This chic rooftop bar is located in Anantara Emei Resort & Spa and offers a peaceful setting to enjoy a drink while admiring views of the stunning Leshan landscape, including the Giant Buddha.
6. Can you access the Leshan Giant Buddha at night? Is it illuminated?
No, the Leshan Giant Buddha is not accessible at night. The site closes at 5:30pm and it is not illuminated in the evening.
7. Are there any guided tours specifically focused on entertainment and nightlife in Leshan?
Yes, there are guided tours that focus on entertainment and nightlife in Leshan. One example is the “Nightlife Experience Tour in Leshan”, which takes visitors to popular bars, clubs, and karaoke lounges in the city. The tour also includes a visit to the Leshan Giant Buddha at night for a unique and memorable experience. Other similar tours may be offered by different tour companies or local guides. It is recommended to check with your chosen tour provider for specific details and availability.
8. What are some local hotspots for food and drinks near the Leshan Giant Buddha?
1. Leshan Heishenjiao Experience Museum: This museum offers a unique dining experience where you can enjoy traditional Sichuan cuisine while watching live performances of the local Heishenjiao Opera.
2. Baxian Cun Village: This traditional village is located near the Giant Buddha and is known for its delicious seafood dishes, including the famous spicy crawfish.
3. Leshan Food Street: Located at the foot of the Giant Buddha, this street is lined with small restaurants and food stalls serving a variety of local dishes such as hot pot, dumplings, and noodles.
4. Tea Houses: Leshan is known for its tea culture and there are many tea houses around the city that offer a wide range of teas to try along with snacks and desserts.
5. Tibetan Café: For a taste of Tibet, head to this café near the Giant Buddha which serves authentic Tibetan food, including momos (dumplings), yak butter tea, and thukpa (noodle soup).
6. Yangliuqing Ancient Town: This historic town is about an hour’s drive from Leshan and is popular for its street food scene offering various snacks like spicy crayfish and grilled skewers.
7. Ronglian Square: A modern commercial area in Leshan that boasts numerous restaurants serving Chinese and international cuisine, as well as cafes and bars for drinks.
8. Local Markets: The markets in Leshan are great places to sample some traditional Sichuan snacks such as spicy fried tofu or meat-stuffed buns alongside a refreshing glass of freshly squeezed fruit juice.
9. Can you visit the nearby city of Chengdu for more entertainment options?
Yes, Chengdu is located about 3 hours away from Chongqing by high-speed train and offers a variety of entertainment options such as shopping, dining, cultural sites, and outdoor activities. Some popular attractions in Chengdu include the Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Kuanzhai Alley, Jinli Ancient Street, and the Leshan Giant Buddha.
10. How long should I plan to spend exploring nightlife in Leshan near the Giant Buddha?
The amount of time spent exploring nightlife in Leshan near the Giant Buddha can vary depending on personal preferences. Some may prefer a quick stop to see the illuminated Buddha at night, while others may want to spend more time exploring the surrounding area and trying out different restaurants, bars, and activities. On average, visitors tend to spend 2-3 hours in Leshan at night before heading back to their accommodations. This allows enough time to see the Giant Buddha lit up and enjoy some of the local nightlife options.
11. Are there any cultural performances or shows related to the history of the Leshan Giant Buddha?
Yes, there are a few cultural performances and shows related to the history of the Leshan Giant Buddha. These include:
1. The Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area Cultural Show: This show takes place every day at 10:00am and showcases traditional Chinese music, dance, and drama performances that tell the story of the Leshan Giant Buddha.
2. Light and Water Show: This show features a combination of sound, light, water, and laser effects to narrate the history of the Leshan Giant Buddha through breathtaking visuals.
3. Classical Sichuan Opera: During peak season (April-October), visitors can enjoy traditional Sichuan Opera performances in front of the Leshan Giant Buddha statue.
4. Leshan Shadow Play: Originated in Leshan during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), shadow play is a form of puppetry that tells stories using flat, translucent screens with figures made from leather or paper accompanied by music and dialogue.
5. Cultural Exhibitions: The Leshan Museum holds regular exhibitions showcasing cultural artifacts related to the Leshan Giant Buddha and its construction process.
6. Traditional Music Performance: In some areas of the scenic area, you may find local musicians playing traditional Chinese instruments such as erhu (two-stringed fiddle) or guzheng (a plucked string instrument) while singing songs inspired by the history of the Leshan Giant Buddha.
12. Is there a specific time of year when nightlife in Leshan is particularly lively?
The nightlife in Leshan is generally lively throughout the year, but it may be more vibrant during holidays and festivals such as Chinese New Year and National Day. Additionally, summer months (June-August) tend to bring in more tourists, which can also contribute to a livelier nightlife scene.
13. What is the dress code like at clubs and bars near the Leshan Giant Buddha?
The dress code at clubs and bars near the Leshan Giant Buddha varies depending on the specific establishment. Some may have a more relaxed dress code, while others may require more formal attire. It is best to check with the specific club or bar beforehand to see if there are any dress code restrictions. In general, smart casual attire such as nice jeans or trousers and a shirt or blouse are appropriate for most places in China. Avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, and flip flops as these may not be allowed in certain establishments.
14. Are there any unique experiences, such as night markets, that are specific to nightlife in this area?
Yes, there are several night markets in this area that offer unique experiences. One popular night market is the Fengjia Night Market in Taichung, which is known for its wide variety of food stalls and shops selling trendy clothing and accessories. Another unique experience is visiting the Keelung Miaokou Night Market in Keelung City, which offers a vibrant atmosphere and a plethora of fresh seafood dishes. The Shida Night Market in Taipei is also famous for its lively ambiance and bustling street vendors selling street food, clothes, and local handicrafts. Other notable night markets include the Liuhe Night Market in Kaohsiung and the Ningxia Night Market in Taipei, offering a range of local delicacies and traditional street foods.
15. Is it common to see street performers or live music while visiting Leshan’s Giant Buddha at night?
No, it is not common to see street performers or live music while visiting Leshan’s Giant Buddha at night. The area around the Giant Buddha tends to be quieter and more serene in the evenings, with most visitors coming during the day to see the monument. However, during certain festivals or special events, there may be some performances or music near the Giant Buddha. It is best to check with local tourism authorities for specific event schedules.
16. Can you recommend any must-try local drinks or dishes while enjoying nightlife near the giant Buddha?
Some popular local drinks and dishes to try while enjoying nightlife near the giant Buddha are:
1. Makgeolli (Korean rice wine)
2. Soju (Korean vodka-like drink)
3. Pajeon (savory Korean pancake)
4. Samgyeopsal (grilled pork belly)
5. Jjajangmyeon (black bean noodles)
6. Dakgalbi (spicy stir-fried chicken with vegetables)
17. Are there any outdoor activities or excursions available during nighttime hours near the Leshan Giant Buddha area?
Yes, there are several outdoor activities and excursions available during nighttime hours near the Leshan Giant Buddha area. Some options include:1. Night boat tour: Visitors can take a night boat tour to see the Leshan Giant Buddha from the river. The illuminated statue looks even more impressive at night.
2. Hiking Mount Emei: The nearby Mount Emei is a popular hiking spot and offers stunning views of the landscape, especially at night when the city lights up.
3. Ghost City Tour: The Ghost City (Fodong Shanzhuang) near Leshan is known for its eerie atmosphere and unique rock formations. A guided nighttime tour is available to explore the area.
4. Leshan Food Street: Located near the Giant Buddha, this food street comes alive at night with various vendors selling local snacks and dishes.
5. Cultural performances: There are several cultural performances that take place in Leshan at night, such as Sichuan Opera shows or Chinese Shadow Puppet shows.
6. Stroll along Leshan Riverwalk: Take a leisurely walk along the Leshan River and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the city at night.
7. Visit Zuojia Ancient Town: Located near Leshan, Zuojia Ancient Town is a charming destination to explore at night with its traditional architecture, beautiful riverside location, and lantern-lit streets.
8. Watch fireworks: During special occasions or festivals, firework displays are often held near the Leshan Giant Buddha area.
9. Bike ride around town: Renting a bike and exploring the city at night is another great way to experience Leshan’s charm after dark.
10. Camping on Mount Emei: For those seeking a unique experience, camping on Mount Emei under starry skies is an option to consider.
18. Are there age restrictions for entering clubs or bars near the giant Buddha?
The age restrictions for entering clubs or bars near the giant Buddha may vary. It is recommended to check with the specific establishment beforehand as they may have different policies. Generally, most clubs and bars in Hong Kong have a minimum age requirement of 18 years old. Some venues may require guests to be at least 21 years old, especially for those serving alcohol. It is important to bring a valid photo ID with you if you plan on visiting these establishments. Children under the legal drinking age must be accompanied by an adult or guardian at all times.
19.Are taxis readily available for transport to and from nightlife spots near the giant buddha?
Yes, taxis are readily available for transport to and from nightlife spots near the giant buddha. You can easily find taxis at the entrance of Ngong Ping Village or ask your hotel to arrange one for you.
20.What are some top-rated hotels or accommodations for travelers looking to experience both entertainment and sightseeing at Leshan Giant Buddha?
1. Crowne Plaza Leshan
2. Sofitel Leshan
3. Niccolo Chengdu
4. InterContinental Leshan
5. Mercure Hotel Leshan
6. Wyndham Grand Plaza Royale Leshan
7. Grand Barony Hotel
8. Holiday Inn Express Leshan City Square
9. Vienna International Hotel – Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area Branch
10 Tianfu Sunshine Hotel – Leshan