How to Get to Leshan. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Chengdu

Main Airports

Chengdu hosts the main international gateways for the region.

Options for Arrival

Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU).
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU), a newer, expanding hub.
TFU increasingly handles international and domestic routes.

Major Airlines

Numerous international and domestic airlines offer routes to Chengdu.

Airline Carriers

Air China, Sichuan Airlines, Cathay Pacific.
KLM, Lufthansa, United Airlines, Qatar Airways.
Extensive domestic connections across China.

Direct Flights

Available from Amsterdam, Frankfurt, London, Los Angeles, Singapore, Tokyo, and Seoul.

Price Fluctuations

Prices typically increase during summer holidays and Chinese public holidays. Book flights in advance.

Airport Facilities

Both Chengdu airports are modern, with duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and free Wi-Fi.

Transfers to Leshan

From Chengdu Shuangliu CTU

High-speed rail: Airport Express to Chengdu South/East, then train to Leshan North (1.5-2 hrs).
Bus: Shuttle bus directly to Leshan Passenger Transport Center (2-2.5 hrs).
Book high-speed train tickets in advance.
Factor in transfer time at Chengdu stations.

From Chengdu Tianfu TFU

High-speed rail: Airport Express to Chengdu East, then train to Leshan North (2-2.5 hrs).
Bus: Shuttle bus directly to Leshan Passenger Transport Center (2.5-3 hrs).
Allow additional time due to TFU's location.
Traffic conditions can affect bus travel times.

Travel Advisory

Transfer Time

Factor in transfer time between airport terminals and railway/bus stations.

Train Tickets

Book high-speed train tickets in advance, especially during busy periods.

Peak Hours

Allow extra time for travel during peak traffic or holiday seasons.

Land Connections

High-Speed Rail CRH

Leshan North Rail Depot is a major stop on the Chengdu-Mianyang-Leshan Intercity Railway, making it highly accessible.

Frequent Services

To Chengdu East Railway Station (~1 hr, ¥54-¥65).
To Chengdu South Railway Station (~45 min, ¥45-¥55).
To Shuangliu Airport Station (~30 min, ¥34-¥40).

Long-Distance Buses

Leshan Passenger Transport Center is the main long-distance bus station.

Bus Routes

To Chengdu (Xinnanmen, Shiyangchang) (~2-2.5 hrs, ¥50-¥60).
To Emei Mountain (Baoguo Temple) (~30-45 min, ¥15-¥20).
Buses offer a direct, sometimes slower, option compared to trains.

Self-Driving Considerations

International Driving Permits (IDPs) are not recognized as standalone licenses in China.

Licensing & Recommendations

Obtaining a temporary Chinese license is possible but complex for short visits.
Self-driving is not generally advised for foreign tourists.
Local driving conditions and rules can be challenging.

Road Conditions & Safety

Major highways connecting Leshan to Chengdu and other urban areas are generally well-maintained. Local the roads in Leshan can be busy.

Safety Notes

Traffic rules are often not strictly adhered to.
Defensive driving is needed if you decide to drive.
Parking is available in designated lots, often paid.

Border & Sea/River Travel Notes

Border crossing information is not relevant for Leshan directly.
Leshan is an inland city within Sichuan Province.
Sea or river arrivals are not applicable for reaching Leshan as a main mode.

River transportation in Leshan mainly consists of tourist boat tours for sightseeing.
These boats offer panoramic views of the Buddha.
They do not serve as a main mode at the time of arrival or departure.

Departing Leshan

Exit Procedures & Timing

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing China by air or land for foreign tourists.

Departure Recommendations

International Flights (from Chengdu): Arrive 3 hours before.
High-speed Rail (Leshan North): Arrive 30-45 minutes before.
Long-Distance Buses (Leshan Passenger Transport Center): Arrive 20-30 minutes before.

Airport/Station Facilities

Chengdu airports (CTU and TFU) offer a comprehensive range of facilities for departing travelers.

Amenities Available

Duty-free shopping, various restaurants, lounges at Chengdu airports.
Leshan North Railway Station: Basic waiting areas, restrooms, small shops.
Leshan Passenger Transport Center: Basic facilities including snacks and drinks.

Getting There & Away Tips

Flight Booking

Compare flight options and prices from various suppliers for the best deals.

Recommended Services

Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.
Skyscanner for flight comparisons.
Book in advance for better rates.

Ground Transport Booking

For car rentals, consider options in case you have a valid temporary Chinese license.

Service Providers

DiscoverCars.com for rental options.
Official Chinese railway site (12306.cn) or Trip.com for train tickets.
Purchase bus tickets at depots or through apps.

Airline Compensation

Delayed Flights

If your flight is delayed, you might be entitled to compensation.

Canceled Flights

Cancellations may also qualify for financial reimbursement.

Claim Assistance

Visit AirHelp to check your eligibility and file a claim.

Final Logistics Tip

Allow extra time for your transfer from Leshan to Chengdu airport, especially during peak travel times or if traffic is expected. Pre-booking all transport legs for your journey to and from Leshan minimizes stress.

How to Get to Leshan