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Best Time to Visit Leshan

Best Time to Visit Leshan

Leshan Sichuan, China Travel Guide

Optimal Travel Periods

Each season in Leshan has different advantages and dispros for travelers. Leshan experiences specific weather phenomena that visitors should note.

The monsoon season, from June to August, brings heavy rainfall. This causes localized flooding and landslides in mountainous areas. Fog is frequent, especially in spring and winter mornings, potentially obscuring views of the Leshan Grand Buddha. Summers can reach high temperatures, while winters are damp and chilly.

Considerations by Season

  • Spring (Mar-May): Mild temperatures (15-25°C), moderate rain.
  • Summer (Jun-Aug): Hot, humid (25-35°C+), heavy rainfall.
  • Autumn (Sep-Nov): Pleasant temperatures (18-28°C), less rain.
  • Winter (Dec-Feb): Cool, damp (5-15°C), frequent fog.

Special Weather Notes

Monsoon season, from June to August, brings heavy rainfall. This causes localized flooding and landslides, especially in mountainous areas like Emei Mountain. Heed local alerts during this period.

Fog is frequent, especially in spring and winter mornings. This fog obscures views of the Leshan Grand Buddha. Plan boat tours for clear afternoons if possible. Summers are very hot and humid; winters are damp and chilly. Pack clothing suitable for these conditions.

High Season

May, July, August, The Golden week holidayss

Pros

City buzzes with activity, all services run fully.

Cons

Significant crowds, higher prices, queues, extreme heat, heavy rain.

Shoulder Season

March-April, September, November

Pros

Favorable weather, fewer crowds, reasonable prices, comfortable for outdoor activities.

Cons

Occasional rain showers, morning fog sometimes obscures views.

Low Season

December-February (excl. Chinese New Year)

Pros

Minimal crowds, peaceful exploration, lowest prices, unique tranquil beauty.

Cons

Cold, damp weather, shorter daylight hours, some reduced operating hours.

Ideal Timing for Activities

Leshan Grand Buddha Visits

Visit early morning (before 9 AM) or late afternoon (after 4 PM) on weekdays during shoulder seasons (April, May, September, October) to avoid the largest crowds. A boat tour provides an excellent panoramic view of the Buddha regardless of crowds on the cliff path.

Outdoor Exploration

Spring and autumn provide the most comfortable temperatures and less precipitation, making them ideal for exploring the scenic areas. For the best views from Emei Mountain's Golden Summit, aim for clear days in autumn (September-October). Avoid winter due to icy paths and summer due to heavy rains and fog, which can completely obscure views.

Practical Tips

  • Check Forecast

    Verify local weather a few days before your trip.

  • Pack Appropriately

    Adjust clothing for expected temperatures and rain.

  • Flexible Plans

    Be ready to change daily plans for pleasant experiences.

  • Online Bookings

    Reserve tours and tickets for high season.

  • Beat Crowds

    Early mornings or late afternoons for famous attractions.

Visa & Entry Requirements

  • Most foreign nationals acquire a visa to enter mainland China.
  • The L Visa (Tourist Visa) is the ordinary type for fun visits.
  • Application processing takes 4 to 10 business days.

Important Reminder

Keep digital and physical copies of all your important documents separate from the originals. This offers a backup in case of loss or theft.

Financial Planning

Effective budgeting helps manage expenses during your Leshan trip. Costs vary widely depending on your travel style and preferences.

Currency & Exchange

The currency within China is the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY or RMB), symbolized by ¥. Exchange rates fluctuate.

Approximate Exchange Rates

  • 1 USD ≈ 7.2 CNY
  • 1 EUR ≈ 7.8 CNY
  • 1 GBP ≈ 9.2 CNY
  • Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) dominate.

Local Costs

Here are estimated price ranges for common expenses in Leshan.

Typical Price Ranges CNY

  • Accommodation: ¥80-¥1500+ per night.
  • Meals: ¥10-¥500+ per person.
  • City Transportation: ¥1-¥30 for each ride.
  • Attractions: ¥70-¥160 per entry.

Saving Money & Tipping

Tipping Culture

  • Tipping is generally not customary in mainland China.
  • Rarely expected in restaurants, taxis, or hotels.
  • Tour guides might accept a tip as appreciation, but it is not mandatory.
  • Do not feel obliged to give a tip.

Money-Saving Strategies

  • Use Public Transportation: Economical city buses (¥1-¥2).
  • Eat Locally: Enjoy affordable street food and small eateries.
  • Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Refill where possible to save money.
  • Local SIM Card: Acquire affordable data and enable mobile payment apps.

Health Advisory

  • Consult your doctor or a travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip.
  • Carry copies of your vaccination records and relevant medical history.
  • Drink only bottled or boiled water, avoid uncooked food.
  • Confirm your comprehensive travel insurance covers medical emergencies and evacuation.

Staying Well and Secure

Leshan is generally a safe city for tourists. The crime rate is low, but petty theft, like pickpocketing, can occur in crowded tourist areas.

Recommended Vaccinations

  • Routine Vaccinations (MMR, DTaP, Polio).
  • Hepatitis A and B.
  • Typhoid.
  • An Illness spread by mosquitoes in asia (for long-term/rural).

Common Health Concerns

  • Traveler's Diarrhea (bottled water, reputable food).
  • Air Quality (occasional haze, mask for sensitivities).
  • Heatstroke (stay hydrated, light clothing in summer).
  • Insect Bites (use repellent).

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 110
  • Fire: 119
  • Ambulance: 120
  • Local Tourism Hotline: 12301
  • Keep embassy/consulate contact information available.

Staying Connected

Modern travel relies on technology. Plan for your electronic needs to stay connected and capture memories. Utilize apps for navigation and communication.

Mobile & Internet

GSM phones are compatible in China. A local SIM card from China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom offers affordable data. Passport needed for registration.

E-SIM options are also available from international providers. A VPN is crucial for accessing blocked international sites (Google, Facebook, WhatsApp). Acquire and install your VPN before arriving in China.

Essential Apps

  • Navigation: Baidu Maps (most accurate in China).
  • Translation: Pleco (offline dictionary), Google Translate (with VPN).
  • Communication/Payment: WeChat, Alipay (essential).
1

Power Adapter

China uses 220V, 50Hz electricity. Plug types are A (two flat prongs) and I (three flat pins in a triangular pattern).

Ensure compatibility for your devices.

2

Camera Equipment

A digital camera or Smartphone works for general photography. A Wide-angle lens represents the immense scale of the Buddha.

Consider a Portable tripod for low-light shots.

Protect gear from rain and humidity.

3

Portable Chargers

Portable chargers and power banks are highly recommended for complete days of sightseeing. Your phone battery drains quickly with navigation plus images.

Carry a fully charged power bank.

Do not overcharge devices.

Data Backup

Method Description Considerations
Cloud Storage Utilize services like Google Drive or Dropbox. VPN access is needed in China.
External Hard Drive A physical drive for photos and documents. Keep it separate from your main devices.
USB Flash Drive A Small, portable drive for essential copies. Convenient for small files, documents.

Daily Budget per person

  • Budget Traveler¥220-¥430 ($30-$60)
  • Mid-range Traveler¥410-¥980 ($55-$135)
  • Luxury Traveler¥1100-¥2700+ ($150-$375+)

Accommodation Costs per night

  • Hostels/Guesthouses¥80-¥200
  • Mid-range Hotels¥200-¥500
  • Luxury Hotels¥600-¥1500+

Meal Costs per person

  • Street food/Small Eateries¥10-¥30
  • Casual Local Restaurants¥30-¥80

Attraction Costs per entry

  • Leshan Grand Buddha Scenic Area¥80
  • Leshan Grand Buddha Boat Tour¥70-¥120
  • Emei Mountain Entrance¥160

Mobile Payment & Local SIM

Mobile Payment AppsWeChat Pay, Alipay
Local SIM CardChina Mobile, Unicom, Telecom
Registration for SIMPassport is needed
Benefits of Local SIMAffordable data, local number
VPN RequirementFor international apps/sites
Online BookingTrip.com, Klook for tours

Staying Well and Secure

  • Leshan is generally a safe city for tourists.
  • Petty theft, like pickpocketing, happens in crowded tourist areas.
  • Maintain awareness of personal belongings.
  • Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended.