Mount Emei in Sichuan Province

Mount Emei Introduction

Chinese name: 峨眉山

Location: 37km from the city of Leshan and 7km from the city of Emei, 169km from Chengdu

Opening hours: 6:00-18:00 (slight variations depending on the season and during holidays.)

Duration of visit: one or two days

Mount Emei, located near Chengdu in Sichuan Province, is known for its rich natural resources, including abundant plant and animal life and unique geological formations. It's also a revered site in Chinese Buddhism, known as the "Buddhist country paradise" and dojo of Bodhisattva Samantabhadra. Its unique blend of natural beauty and profound Buddhist culture earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Mount Emei consists of three mountain ranges. The scenic spot covers an area of 154 square kilometers, and its highest peak, Wanfo Summit, stands at an altitude of 3099 meters. Owing to its elevation and geographical position, the weather on Mount Emei is highly diverse, ranging from the mountain foot to its summit, with all four seasons present on a single mountain.  

Considered as a holy site of Bodhisattva Samantabhadra, Mount Emei has rich religious and cultural heritage. There are buildings, statues, and Buddhist implements that showcase the strong religious and cultural atmosphere. There's the ancient Baoguo Temple, the majestic Fuhu Temple, the serene Xixiangchi, the mystical Longmen Cave, the awe-inspiring Shesheyan, and the illuminating Emei Buddhist Light. Each one is a unique and unforgettable experience, and together they make Mount Emei a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and spirituality.

Main scenic spots of Mount Emei

Jinding: Located adjacent to Wanfo Summit, the highest peak of Mount Emei, Jinding boasts magnificent views with towering mountains and low-lying clouds. It's a unique and unforgettable experience to worship the world's tallest golden Buddha above the clouds.

Wanfo Summit: As the highest peak of Mount Emei and the prime spot for viewing the four great spectacles, Wanfo Ge exudes a solemn atmosphere as the bell tolls 108 times, purifying the mind and body.

Shuangqiaoqingyin: Surrounded by picturesque mountain and water scenery, the tranquil Qingyin Ge features flowing springs that produce a melodious sound. The Buddhist temple, nestled amidst the stunning natural backdrop, is the perfect place to take photos and is widely regarded as the "number one scenic spot of Mount Emei" by visitors from both past and present.

Four Great Spectacles of Mount Emei: From breathtaking sunrises to ethereal sea of clouds, from shimmering Buddha Light to mystical Holy Lamps, Mount Emei is home to these four awe-inspiring natural wonders that are sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Plan a trip to Mount Emei

Below is classic trip for sightseeing of Mount Emei and Leshan Buddha.

Day 1: Chengdu - Leshan - Emeishan

Depart Chengdu and drive to Leshan (approx. 2 hours)

Visit the Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site (approx. 2-3 hours)

Drive to Emeishan (approx. 1 hour)

Check in to your hotel in Emeishan and rest for the evening.

Day 2: Mount Emei (stay overnight or back to Chengdu)

Take a cable car up to the Golden Summit (approx. 30 minutes)

Visit the Huazang Temple and take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Explore the other temples and sites on the mountain, such as Wannian Temple and Qingyin Pavilion

Return to your hotel in Emeishan for the evening or drive back to Chengdu.

Check out tours from Chengdu to Mount Emei: Chengdu Tours, Vacations, Day Trips

Hiking the Mount Emei

Mount Emei is one of the most popular hiking destinations in China. The mountain offers a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, with something suitable for hikers of all levels. Some of the most popular trails include:

Baoguo Temple to Wannian Temple is a relatively easy trail that takes around 2-3 hours to complete.

Wannian Temple to Qingyin Pavilion is a more challenging trail that takes around 4-5 hours featuring steep inclines and stunning views of waterfalls and natural rock formations.

Qingyin Pavilion to Golden Summit is the most challenging trail on Mount Emei and takes around 8-10 hours to complete.

Request a customize tour to your own physical conditions and interests: Create Your Own Trip

Sunrise and Sunset at Mount Emei

 If you want to catch up the sunrise and sunset moment at Mount Emei, an overnight stay on the mountain is necessary. There are several options ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels.

1. Wannian Temple is a popular place to stay on Mount Emei because it's located halfway up the mountain. There are several hostels and hotels located near Wannian Temple, ranging from budget to mid-range.

2. Golden Summit is the highest point on Mount Emei and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There are a few hotels located at the Golden Summit, including a luxury hotel.

3. Leidongping is a popular place to stay for those who want to watch the sunrise at the Golden Summit. There are several hostels and budget hotels located near Leidongping.

Sunrise and sunset time for your reference