Emeishan National Park Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important, natural attractions of Emeishan National Park with our comprehensive tour guide. Discover the best things to do, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, and much more.


Introduction to Emeishan National Park

Emeishan National Park is one of the most scenic and culturally rich destinations in China. Located in Sichuan province in Southwest China, the park is home to Emei Mountain, one of the Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains of China. With its lush forests, majestic waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Emeishan National Park attracts millions of visitors from all over the world each year.

List of Places to Visit in Emeishan National Park

If you are planning a trip to Emeishan National Park, here is a list of must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Wannian Temple: A famous Buddhist temple founded during the Eastern Jin Dynasty (317-420).
  • Baoguo Monastery: One of the oldest and largest Buddhist monasteries in China.
  • Fuhu Temple: An ancient temple known for its exquisite architecture and Buddha statues.
  • Qingyin Pavilion: A Taoist temple built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Leiyin Temple: Nestled in the mountains, this ancient temple is famous for its intricate wooden carvings.

Natural Attractions of Emeishan National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Emei Mountain: The main attraction of the park, the towering mountain offers breathtaking views and hiking trails.
  • Golden Summit: The highest point on Emei Mountain, with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding forest.
  • Baishui Spring: A natural spring known for its clear, sweet water.
  • Elephant Bathing Pool: A scenic spot where wild elephants bathe in the river.
  • Wanfo Summit: Another scenic point on Emei Mountain, known for its sunrise views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Emeishan National Park

Emeishan National Park offers a variety of hiking and biking routes for visitors of all fitness levels. Here are some popular routes:

  • Emeishan Summit Hiking Trail: A challenging but rewarding trail that takes you to the summit of Emei Mountain.
  • Jiulao Cave Hiking Trail: A moderate trail that leads to a beautiful waterfall and cave.
  • Golden Summit Cycling Trail: A scenic cycling trail that takes you to the top of Golden Summit.
  • Wannian Temple to Xixiang Pool Hiking Trail: An easy trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Best Things to Do in Emeishan National Park: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, there are many other activities and tours available in Emeishan National Park. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Watch the monkey show at Monkey Ecological Park.
  • Take a hot spring bath at Hongzhushan Hot Spring.
  • Enjoy a traditional Sichuan-style hotpot at a local restaurant.
  • Experience a tea ceremony at a traditional tea house.
  • Visit a local tea plantation and learn about tea production.

Week-Long Itinerary for Emeishan National Park

If you want to explore Emeishan National Park in depth, here is a week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Baoguo Monastery and Fuhu Temple.
2 Hike the Emeishan Summit Hiking Trail.
3 Take a tour of the Monkey Ecological Park and the Baishui Spring.
4 Experience a traditional tea ceremony and visit a tea plantation.
5 Relax in Hongzhushan Hot Spring.
6 Bike the Golden Summit Cycling Trail.
7 Visit Wannian Temple and Qingyin Pavilion.

Food and Drink Scene of Emeishan National Park

The cuisine of Sichuan province is famous for its bold and spicy flavors, and Emeishan National Park is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Mapo Tofu: A spicy tofu dish with minced meat.
  • Kung Pao Chicken: A stir-fried chicken dish with peanuts.
  • Yu Xiang Rou Si: A spicy shredded pork dish.

Local Beverages

  • Sichuan Tea: A variety of tea that is popular throughout the region.
  • Er Guo Tou: A strong, distilled liquor made from sorghum.

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

Emeishan National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit any budget. Here are some popular choices:

  • Emei International Hotel: A luxury hotel with stunning views of Emei Mountain.
  • Emeishan International Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly option with dormitory and private rooms.
  • Jinjiang Inn: A mid-range hotel with comfortable rooms and modern amenities.

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

If you want to bring home some souvenirs or local products from Emeishan National Park, here are some ideas:

  • Emei Mountain tea: High-quality tea produced in the local tea plantations.
  • Handmade wooden carvings: Beautifully crafted wooden art pieces made by local artisans.
  • Local specialty snacks: Spicy beef jerky, preserved fruits, and other snacks popular in Sichuan.

Local Culture and Customs of Emeishan National Park

The local culture of Emeishan National Park is heavily influenced by Buddhism and Taoism. Visitors are expected to respect the cultural traditions and customs of the region, such as removing shoes before entering temples and showing reverence for Buddhist statues and artifacts.

Best Time to Visit Emeishan National Park

The best time to visit Emeishan National Park is from March to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Avoid visiting during the Chinese national holidays in October, as the park can be overcrowded during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Emeishan National Park

Do:

  • Dress appropriately when visiting temples and other important cultural sites.
  • Carry a raincoat or umbrella, as the weather can change quickly in the park.
  • Respect the natural environment and do not litter or damage the flora and fauna.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of Buddhist rituals or ceremonies without permission.
  • Feed the wild animals in the park.
  • Climb the mountain at night or during inclement weather.

Safety and Health

Safety in Emeishan National Park

Emeishan National Park is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take precautions when hiking or exploring the park. Here are some safety tips:

  • Always hike with a partner or in a group, and carry a map and first aid kit.
  • Be aware of the weather conditions and dress appropriately.
  • Follow the park rules and regulations, and avoid dangerous areas like cliff edges.

Health in Emeishan National Park

Make sure to pack any necessary medications or first aid supplies when visiting Emeishan National Park. The park is located at a high altitude, so visitors with respiratory or cardiovascular issues should consult with a doctor before visiting.

Getting to Emeishan National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Emeishan National Park is easily accessible from nearby cities and airports. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Emeishan National Park

  • Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport
  • Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport

Bus Stations Near Emeishan National Park

  • Emeishan Bus Station
  • Leshan Bus Station

Other Options

  • Take a train to Emeishan Railway Station, which is connected to major cities in China.

How to Get Around in Emeishan National Park

The park offers a shuttle bus service that runs between major attractions and hiking trails. Visitors can also rent bikes or hike to their destinations.

Where to Go Next from Emeishan National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time in the region, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can visit:

  • Leshan Giant Buddha: A UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Emeishan National Park.
  • Jiuzhaigou National Park: A stunning national park located in northern Sichuan.
  • Dujiangyan Irrigation System: An ancient irrigation system that is still in use today.

Conclusion

Emeishan National Park is a stunning destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. With so many attractions and activities to explore, visitors of all interests and backgrounds are sure to find something to enjoy.

The Guangfu pavilion The Guangfu pavilion