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Leaving behind the urban sprawl and panda sanctuaries of Chengdu for the spiritual grandeur of Leshan is one of the most rewarding day trips in Sichuan province. While Chengdu buzzes with modern tech and spicy hotpot, Leshan offers a slower pace, centered around the confluence of three rivers and the watchful gaze of the world's largest stone Buddha statue.
Most travelers make this trip to stand at the feet of the Dafo (Giant Buddha), a UNESCO World Heritage site carved into the hillside at the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu and Qingyi rivers in the 8th century. The statue is 71 meters high.[1] Fortunately, the rail connection is frequent, making it possible to visit the monument and return to Chengdu in time for dinner. You can check your options for this route on GoAsia.cc.
Chengdu to Leshan by Train
The high-speed rail network has transformed travel between these two cities. On 16 October 2026, 12306 listed 73 services from Chengdu East, Chengdu South and Xipu stations to Leshan station, from the first departure at 05:55 (D9941) to the last at 21:49 (D1947). They are G, D and C trains.[2] From the station in Leshan, you need a bus, taxi or ride-hailing car to reach the Giant Buddha scenic area.
The fastest services (G5415 at 10:26, C5975 at 12:31 and G5405 at 19:16) take 41 minutes, while the slowest listed train (G8743 at 18:53) takes 2 hours 54 minutes.[2] If you are on a tight schedule, check the duration before booking. 12306 does not show fares in its search results, so check the price for your train when you select it or when you book.
No Seat Tickets
Occasionally, when a train is fully booked, standing "No Seat" tickets are sold. This allows you to board the train and stand in the vestibules or between carriages. Given that the journey can be as short as 41 minutes,[2] this is a viable last-minute option, though not recommended if you have heavy luggage or prefer a more relaxed start to your sightseeing.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Duration | Stations |
|---|---|---|
| Fastest G and C Trains | 41 min[2] | Chengdu to Leshan |
| Slower Trains | Up to 2h 54min[2] | Chengdu to Leshan |
Tips for Traveling from Chengdu to Leshan
- Book in Advance: At present 12306 shows tickets 15 days ahead; for travel after 30 December the advance sale period becomes 30 days.[3] This is a popular route for both commuters and tourists, so tickets can sell out on weekends and during public holidays like Golden Week or Lunar New Year.
- Station Choice: Double-check your departure station in Chengdu. Trains to Leshan leave from Chengdu East, Chengdu South and Xipu, so choose the one closest to where you are staying.[2]
- Identification: Foreign passengers buy real-name tickets with a valid passport, and you must show the same document to enter the station and board the train.[4]
- The Buddha Hike: Be prepared for a lot of stairs. To see the Buddha from above and then walk down to his feet, you will need sturdy walking shoes and a decent level of fitness. If you prefer not to climb, consider the river boat tours, which offer a view from the water.
Timetable
| Train Chengdu - Leshan $ 11.13–97.12 46m – 2h 54m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Chengdu to Leshan, including current prices and schedules.
The train is the practical way to travel, and a Second Class seat is the cheapest ticket on the faster trains. Check the price for your train on 12306 or when you book.
The fastest way to reach Leshan is the high-speed train, which can complete the journey in just 41 minutes. These services leave from Chengdu East, Chengdu South and Xipu stations.
The travel time varies depending on the specific train service. While the fastest trains take 41 minutes, some slower services take up to 2 hours 54 minutes.
No, you do not need a paper ticket. China uses real-name electronic tickets, and you present the passport you used for booking at the station gates to board your train.
Yes, a day trip is easy thanks to the frequent train schedule, with departures from early morning until the evening. Many travelers take an early morning train from Chengdu, spend the day exploring the scenic area, and return to Chengdu by evening.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] UNESCO World Heritage Centre: Mount Emei Scenic Area, including Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [2] China Railway (12306): 12306 ticket search: Chengdu East to Leshan, 16 October 2026. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [3] China Railway (12306): 12306 ticket search: Beijing to Chongqing, 16 October 2026. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [4] China Railway (12306): 12306 FAQ: real-name tickets, ID and free cabin luggage. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.