Mount Emei峨眉山

Overview

Mount Emei in Leshan, Sichuan, is one of China's four sacred Buddhist mountains and the bodhimanda of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva. At 3,099m, the Golden Summit offers sunrise, sea of clouds, Buddha's light, and sacred lamps as the four wonders. The 48m golden statue of Samantabhadra is magnificent. Rich in flora and fauna, it's known as 'Plant Kingdom' and 'Animal Paradise', with the famous Emei monkeys delighting visitors. Inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage in 1996.

Key Facts

Top Attractions

Golden Summit

Mount Emei's highest point at 3,079m. Golden Samantabhadra statue, Huazang Temple, and Sheshen Cliff are the three highlights. Sunrise, cloud sea, and Buddha's light await.

Wannian Temple

One of Emei's oldest temples dating to Eastern Jin. Houses a 62-ton bronze Samantabhadra statue cast in Northern Song, a national grade-one relic.

Qingyin Pavilion

One of Emei's most scenic spots. Twin bridges with flowing streams create a serene landscape. Perfect for photos and rest.

Emei Monkey Area

Emei monkeys are Tibetan macaques. Interact closely in designated areas but secure belongings and don't actively feed them.

Food & Snacks

Emei Vegetarian Cuisine

Temple vegetarian cuisine is a Mount Emei specialty, using tofu and gluten to mimic meat flavors. Wannian Temple's is most famous.

Emei Tofu Pudding

Silky tofu pudding with spicy seasonings, crispy soybeans and scallions. Perfect energy boost during hiking.

Emei Eel Strips

Local specialty using wild eel strips with pickled chili and ginger. Sour, spicy and tender, a local banquet essential.

Braised Duck with Konjac

Emei specialty frozen konjac, spongy and absorbent. Braised with duck creates a unique texture, a signature dish.

Festivals & Events

World & Intangible Heritage

• Mount Emei & Leshan Giant Buddha (1996) — Inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage in 1996. Sacred Buddhist site with over 2,000 years of cultural heritage and magnificent natural scenery.
• Emei Martial Arts (2008) — One of China's three great martial arts schools alongside Shaolin and Wudang. Known for close combat and finger techniques, national intangible heritage since 2008.

Practical Tips