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Where to Stay in Leshan

Where to Stay in Leshan

Leshan Sichuan, China Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

General Lodging Options

  • Hostels:

    Budget-friendly, dorms or private rooms. They cater to backpackers and solo travelers, often having communal areas.

  • Guesthouses/B&Bs:

    Locally run, personal, intimate, with traditional decor and a friendly vibe.

  • Mid-range Hotels:

    3-star and 4-star hotels having comfortable amenities, often breakfast and Wi-Fi. A good balance of comfort and value.

  • Luxury Hotels:

    International chains and upscale local hotels, typically 5-star, with extensive services and contemporary amenities.

Unique & Rental Options

  • Riverview Hotels:

    Some hotels specifically market rooms with views of the Grand Buddha or the river confluence.

  • Tea House Stays:

    Smaller guesthouses incorporate traditional tea house elements, making a culturally immersive stay.

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Platforms like Airbnb (check local regulations) or local equivalents have apartments for rent, making more space.

  • Camping:

    Not common within Leshan city. Possible in designated areas within national parks like Emei Mountain with permits.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area has a distinct character.

Grand Buddha Scenic Area

Advantages
  • Walk to Leshan Grand Buddha, Lingyun Temple, boat piers.
  • Enjoy scenic views, especially of the rivers.
  • Immediate proximity to the main attraction.
  • Tourist-centric and bustling during the day.
Disadvantages
  • Can be crowded and noisy, notably during peak hours.
  • Accommodation and food prices sometimes higher.
  • Limited evening entertainment options.
  • Busyness might be constant.

City Center

Advantages
  • Features good transportation links.
  • A wide range of dining options.
  • Access to local life, shops, and parks.
  • Accommodation generally less expensive than scenic area.
Disadvantages
  • Further from the Grand Buddha.
  • Requires a short bus or taxi ride.
  • Less immediate access to main tourist sites.
  • Some areas can be busy with traffic.

Near Leshan North Railway Station

Advantages
  • Convenient for arrivals and departures by train.
  • Newer hotels having modern amenities.
  • Good for onward travel connections.
  • Less crowded than scenic areas.
Disadvantages
  • Lacks the historical charm of other regions.
  • Fewer dining and entertainment options within immediate walking distance.
  • Requires transport to the Grand Buddha and city center.
  • Few local ambiance.

Safety and Proximity Considerations

Safety:

All areas in Leshan generally present safe conditions for tourists. Apply standard precautions against petty theft in crowded areas.

Transportation:

Grand Buddha Scenic Area has easy access by local bus or taxi. City Center connects well by local bus. Leshan North Railway Station has direct high-speed rail access.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies help travelers secure good accommodation at favorable prices.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (Chinese public holidays, July-August): Book 1-3 months in advance for availability.
  • Shoulder Season: Book 2-4 weeks in advance for preferred choices.
  • Low Season: Deals closer to travel date, advisable to book a week or two ahead.
  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Agoda, and Trip.com (Ctrip) are reliable.

Booking Policies

  • Negotiation for walk-in rates is generally not customary for hotels in China.
  • Policies vary by hotel and booking platform. Always check the specific policy.
  • Many online bookings require prepayment or a credit card guarantee.
  • Accommodation prices are highest during peak tourist times of year and Chinese public holidays.

Local Reservation Systems

Platforms:
  • Meituan (美团)
  • Fliggy (飞猪)
  • Qunar (去哪儿)
  • These often have more local options and competitive prices.
Considerations:
  • May require Chinese mobile numbers.
  • May require Chinese payment methods.
  • Less accessible for international travelers.
  • Check options at IHG Hotels.

Additional Affiliate Options

Budget Accommodations:

Explore budget-friendly stays with Hostelworld.

Vacation Rentals:

Find unique vacation rentals at Vrbo.

Unique Stays:

Consider house sitting choices at TrustedHousesitters.

Accommodation Recommendations

Discover ideal stays for various preferences.

Budget & Luxury Choices

Budget Stays

Look for hostels and guesthouses near the Grand Buddha Scenic Area or in the city center.

  • Prioritize properties with good reviews for cleanliness.
  • Convenient location for exploration.
  • Often the most affordable options.
  • Basic amenities generally come with the stay.
Luxury Stays

Opt for high-end hotels, often global brands, having superior amenities.

  • Extensive services and modern facilities.
  • Sometimes having direct views of the Grand Buddha.
  • Higher levels of comfort and service.
  • Upscale dining options often can be found in the hotels.

Mid-range & Specialized Stays

Mid-range Options

Choose 3-4 star hotels along Binjiang Road for potential river views or in the city center.

  • Good for practicality and access to amenities.
  • A balance of comfort and value.
  • Often include breakfast and Wi-Fi.
  • Many choices for different tastes.
Cultural & Homestay Feel

Staying in traditional-style guesthouses within the scenic area or near temples makes a more atmospheric and culturally immersive experience.

  • Insights into local life.
  • Traditional decor and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Unique cultural elements.
  • A personal and intimate experience.

Family-Friendly Choices

  • Family Rooms:

    Look for accommodations that have family rooms or connecting rooms for convenience.

  • Hotel Amenities:

    Some larger hotels may have swimming pools or play areas, though these are less common.

  • Serviced Apartments:

    Available via vacation rentals, these have more space and facilities suitable for families.

  • Proximity:

    Consider options close to attractions or amenities that cater to children.

Solo & Long-Stay Options

  • Solo Travelers:

    Hostels with social common areas or well-located guesthouses are good choices. Safety and ease of access are important.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations:

    For longer stays, holiday rentals or serviced apartments are ideal options.

  • Extended Booking Rates:

    Some hotels may have discounted rates for extended bookings; inquire directly.

  • Local Immersion:

    Guesthouses sometimes offer a homestay-like feel, making insight into local life.

Special Note on Unique Views

River-facing Rooms

Some hotels have rooms specifically marketing views of the Grand Buddha or the confluence of the rivers.

  • These have an unique vantage point.
  • Especially good at sunrise or sunset.
  • Booking early is advisable for these specific rooms.
  • A memorable stay often comes with these views.
Cultural Charm

Smaller guesthouses incorporating traditional tea house elements can make a culturally immersive stay.

  • A distinct ambiance than standard hotels.
  • Good for those seeking local charm.
  • Often run by local families.
  • Can feel more personal.

Homestay and Camping Considerations

Homestay Availability

Homestay options are not as developed directly within Leshan city. Some guesthouses might have a homestay-like feel.

Community Tourism

Community-based tourism is more common in rural or ethnic minority areas of Sichuan, rather than Leshan itself.

Camping Conditions

Camping is not common within Leshan city. It is possible in designated areas within national parks like Emei Mountain, needing permits.