Tour Introduction
This full-day trip from Chengdu combines two very different sides of Sichuan—one grand and monumental, the other quiet and full of old-town charm.
You’ll begin with a visit to the Leshan Giant Buddha, the largest stone Buddha statue in the world and one of Sichuan’s most remarkable historic landmarks. Carved directly into a riverside cliff during the Tang Dynasty, the Buddha has been watching over the meeting point of the rivers for more than 1,200 years. Seeing it in person feels even more impressive than photos suggest.
Later, continue to Huanglongxi Ancient Town, where stone lanes, old courtyard houses, temples, teahouses, and riverside walkways offer a slower and more local atmosphere. It’s a lovely place to wander without a fixed plan—just following the narrow alleys and seeing what appears around the next corner.
This is a private experience designed for you and your group only, with your own vehicle and professional local driver for the day. The pace stays flexible, which makes the journey feel easy and comfortable.
Tickets are not included, which gives you flexibility on the day, especially helpful for guests who may qualify for discounted or senior admission. Just remember to bring your passport for ticket purchase and entry.
Tour highlights include:
- Visit the world-famous Leshan Giant Buddha from Chengdu in one day
- Explore the old streets and riverside atmosphere of Huanglongxi Ancient Town
- Travel with a private driver in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle
- Flexible private schedule with hotel pickup and drop-off
- A relaxed mix of history, culture, and traditional Sichuan scenery
What’s Included
- Private transportation throughout the day
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional private driver
- English written explanation for attractions
- Bottled water
- All road fees and local taxes
Not included:
- Entrance tickets
- Tour guide service
- Lunch
- Personal expenses
Your Day Trip Experience
Leshan Giant Buddha
Your day begins with pickup from your Chengdu hotel, followed by a private drive south to Leshan.
Your first stop is the extraordinary Leshan Giant Buddha, one of China’s most iconic Buddhist monuments.
Carved into the red sandstone cliff during the Tang Dynasty, the seated Buddha stands about 71 metres high, facing Mount Emei, with the rivers flowing below at its feet. It remains the largest stone Buddha statue in the world.
Even before you reach the main viewing area, the scale of the site feels impressive. The Buddha blends into the cliff itself, which makes it feel both monumental and completely part of the landscape.
Depending on the visit route you choose that day, you may view the Buddha from the walking paths above or from the river below by boat.
Suggested visit: around 2 hours
Huanglongxi Ancient Town
In the afternoon, continue to Huanglongxi Ancient Town, one of the most atmospheric old towns near Chengdu.
This riverside town has a long history and still keeps much of its traditional Qing Dynasty layout, with stone streets, narrow alleys, old wooden buildings, temple courtyards, and bridges crossing the water.
What I like here is that it still feels lived-in. You’ll see locals playing mahjong, people sitting outside teahouses, small food stalls tucked along the lanes, and residents going about their day just as visitors wander past.
The town is also known for its tea culture, folk traditions, old banyan trees, and historic connection to trade routes through Sichuan.
It’s the kind of place that doesn’t need a strict sightseeing plan. Walking slowly works best here—crossing little bridges, stopping for tea, or simply enjoying the old-town atmosphere beside the water.
Suggested visit: flexible afternoon visit
After exploring Huanglongxi, you’ll return comfortably to Chengdu by private vehicle and be dropped off back at your hotel in the evening.
This day trip works especially well if you’d like to combine one of Sichuan’s most famous historic landmarks with a quieter traditional town, all at an easy pace from Chengdu.
Further Reading
How to Visit Mount Emei: Tickets, Transport, Routes, Hotels & Tips
How to Visit Leshan Giant Buddha from Chengdu
How to Visit Mount Qingcheng: Transportation, Highlights & Tips
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