Emeishan Travel Guide

Plan your next vacation to Emeishan with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore natural attractions, cultural landmarks, hiking and biking routes, local cuisine, and more.


Introduction to Emeishan

Located in East Sichuan, Southwest China, Emeishan is a popular travel destination for its stunning natural beauty and cultural significance. The region is named after the famous Mount Emei, one of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China. Emeishan boasts a variety of natural wonders, including waterfalls, hot springs, forests, and Buddhist temples. Every year, thousands of tourists from all over the world flock to Emeishan to explore its breathtaking landscapes and learn about its rich culture and history.

List of Places to Visit in Emeishan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Emeishan is home to several historical landmarks and cultural attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular places include:

  • ** Baoguo Temple** - One of the oldest temples in China, Baoguo Temple dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). The temple is known for its exquisite architecture and splendid gardens.

  • Fuhu Temple - Built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), Fuhu Temple is renowned for its awe-inspiring cliff inscriptions and sculptures.

  • Jieyin Hall - This historic building houses an impressive collection of Buddhist scriptures, paintings, and calligraphy.

  • Wannian Temple - Built during the Jin Dynasty (1115-1234), Wannian Temple is a famous Buddhist monastery that offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Chinese architecture and culture.

Natural Attractions of Emeishan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Emeishan is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. Below are some of the top natural attractions to visit:

  • Mount Emei - The highest peak in Sichuan province, Mount Emei is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred mountains in China. Visitors can hike to its summit for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

  • Golden Summit - Located at the top of Mount Emei, Golden Summit is famous for its stunning sunrise and sunset views over the cloud sea.

  • Baoguo Lake - This picturesque lake is surrounded by lush forests and is an ideal spot for a tranquil hike or picnic.

  • Tianhuasi Hot Springs - These natural hot springs offer visitors a relaxing soak in therapeutic mineral water.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Emeishan

Emeishan is a haven for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with a plethora of scenic trails to explore. Here are some of the best options:

  • Mount Emei Summit Trail - This 13 kilometer trail takes visitors to the top of Mount Emei, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Qingyin Pavilion to Wannian Temple Trail - This 7.5 kilometer trail showcases the natural beauty of Emeishan and takes visitors through picturesque forests and waterfalls.

  • Huanhuaxi Valley Trail - Located in the scenic Huanhuaxi Valley, this trail is perfect for cycling and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and river.

Best Things to Do in Emeishan: Activities and Tours

There are ample opportunities for entertainment and relaxation in Emeishan. Here are some of the top things to do in the region:

  • Visit the Giant Buddha - Located on Mount Emei, the Giant Buddha is a colossal statue that stands over 70 meters tall. Visitors can climb to the top of the Buddha for stunning views of the surrounding area.

  • Take a Cable Car Ride - Emeishan boasts a cable car that takes visitors to Golden Summit, offering a bird’s eye view of the stunning scenery.

  • Enjoy a Spa Treatment - Emeishan is famous for its natural hot springs and spas, offering visitors a chance to unwind and rejuvenate.

Week-Long Itinerary for Emeishan

Emeishan offers a wealth of attractions that are best experienced over the course of a week. Here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Visit Baoguo Temple and explore the surrounding area
2 Hike to the summit of Mount Emei
3 Explore the scenic Huanhuaxi Valley
4 Take a cable car ride to Golden Summit and enjoy the stunning views
5 Visit the historical landmarks of Fuhu Temple and Jieyin Hall
6 Relax in the Tianhuasi Hot Springs
7 Shop for souvenirs and local products at the Emei Market

Food and Drink Scene of Emeishan

Must-Try Dishes

Emeishan is known for its unique and delicious cuisine, influenced by the region’s natural resources and cultural heritage. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Baoguo Temple Vegetarian Food - This flavorful vegetarian cuisine includes dishes like mushroom soup, lotus root, and vegetable dumplings.

  • Emei Zhugeliang Tofu - This dish consists of tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots in a spicy sauce.

  • Huanglong Mountain Chicken - This dish features tender chicken cooked in a traditional Sichuan-style sauce.

Local Beverages

Emeishan offers a variety of local beverages to try, including:

  • Ya’an Tea - Ya’an tea is a famous tea in China and is produced in the nearby city of Ya’an. The tea is known for its delicate flavor and aroma.

  • Dujiangyan Wine - This sweet wine is made from Dujiangyan grapes and is a popular drink in Emeishan.

Where to Stay in Emeishan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Emeishan offers a range of accommodation options for travelers, from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Some of the top picks include:

  • Shanren Hotel - This boutique hotel offers comfortable rooms and excellent views of Mount Emei.

  • Xiajiang Hotel - Located near Baoguo Temple, this hotel offers traditional Chinese-style rooms and easy access to the temple and its surroundings.

  • Jinhe Hotel - This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and simple rooms and is located near the Emei Market.

What to Buy in Emeishan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Emeishan boasts a variety of unique souvenirs and local products that visitors can bring home as a memento of their trip. Some of the best options include:

  • Buddhist Artifacts - Emeishan is famous for its Buddhist culture, and visitors can buy a variety of Buddhist artifacts, including prayer beads, Buddha statues, and incense.

  • Emei Tea - This famous tea is a must-try during a visit to Emeishan, and visitors can bring home some of the tea leaves to enjoy later.

Local Culture and Customs of Emeishan

Emeishan is steeped in rich cultural heritage and Buddhist traditions. Visitors should respect local customs and etiquette, and follow cultural protocols when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Emeishan

The best time to visit Emeishan is during the spring and autumn when the weather is mild, and the foliage is at its most colorful. However, visitors can also enjoy the scenic beauty of Emeishan in winter, when the mountains are adorned with snow and offer a picturesque winter landscape.

Do’s and Don’ts of Emeishan

Do:

  • Practice responsible tourism and respect the environment

  • Observe local customs and etiquette when visiting religious sites

  • Try the local cuisine and explore the natural beauty of the region.

Don’t:

  • Damage or remove natural resources, such as plants or rocks

  • Speak loudly or disturb others in religious sites

  • Wear inappropriate clothing in religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Emeishan

Emeishan is generally considered a safe travel destination, with low incidents of crime. However, visitors should exercise caution when carrying valuables and be aware of their surroundings.

Health in Emeishan

Visitors should take precautions for the weather according to the time of year they are visiting. Medical facilities in Emeishan might not be up to western standards, and visitors should carry necessary prescribed medication.

Getting to Emeishan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Emeishan is easily accessible by air, train, and bus.

Airports Near Emeishan

The nearest airports to Emeishan are Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport and Yibin Caiba Airport. Regular flights operate from both airports to major cities in China.

Bus Stations Near Emeishan

Emeishan Bus Station is located near Baoguo Temple and offers regular bus services to various cities in Sichuan province.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Emeishan by train, and regular services operate from Chengdu and other major cities in China.

How to Get Around in Emeishan

Emeishan is well connected by public transport, and buses and taxis are readily available to travel between attractions.

Where to Go Next from Emeishan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Emeishan serves as an excellent base for exploring other nearby destinations and attractions, including:

  • Leshan Giant Buddha - Located in Leshan, about an hour’s drive from Emeishan, the Giant Buddha is a massive statue built during the Tang Dynasty and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Jiuzhaigou Valley - This picturesque valley boasts turquoise lakes, snow-capped mountains, and a wealth of wildlife and is a popular destination for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Emeishan is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Buddhist culture and history. Whether you’re looking to explore stunning natural scenery, sample delicious local cuisine, or relax and unwind in a natural hot spring, Emeishan has something for everyone. Plan your next vacation to this beautiful destination and embark on a journey of awe-inspiring beauty and cultural significance.