Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Consider using luggage storage services at train stations for convenience during your day trips. (2:19)
- Tip 2Taxis are a viable and often faster option to reach major attractions like the Giant Buddha, with prices comparable to ride-sharing apps. (2:55)
- Tip 3For reliable internet access and social media use in China, consider using Holafly's eSIM service, which offers good coverage and includes a VPN. (3:46)
- Tip 4Be prepared for a physically demanding climb with many stairs when visiting the Leshan Giant Buddha. (6:17)
- Tip 5If you are not physically fit or have young children, opt for the river cruise for a less strenuous way to view the Giant Buddha. (10:14)
- Tip 6Be aware that English signage may be limited in some tourist areas; planning ahead or using translation apps can be helpful. (10:58)
- Tip 7Balance your itinerary with your family's energy levels, especially when traveling with children, to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone. (13:39)
Embark on a spiritual and awe-inspiring journey with Alessandro Ippati to the Leshan Giant Buddha, a true wonder of China! This vlog captures the essence of this monumental 71-meter-tall statue, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Experience the challenging climb, the palpable mystical energy, and the breathtaking views. Alessandro shares practical tips, including how to stay connected with Holafly's eSIM and the best ways to view the Buddha – by land or by river cruise. A must-watch for anyone planning a trip to Sichuan!
More about the current video:( 4 / 4 )
Alessandro Ippati's journey to the Leshan Giant Buddha was an unforgettable adventure, fulfilling a significant item on his China bucket list. This monumental statue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands an imposing 71 meters tall, carved into a cliff face at the confluence of three rivers. Alessandro and his family, though not religious, were deeply moved by a profound, almost mystical energy that permeated the site, which helped them push through the challenging climb and humid conditions.
The decision to visit Leshan was strategic, conveniently located between Chongqing and Chengdu, and the allure of its unique spiritual vibe, as seen in online videos, was a major draw. Alessandro emphasizes that this energy was palpable not just to him, but also to his wife Paula and their children, providing the motivation needed to conquer the numerous stairs.
Upon arrival at Leshan station, the family opted for a taxi to the Giant Buddha entrance, a decision that proved efficient and reasonably priced. A practical tip for travelers is the availability of luggage storage at the station, with a kind local offering assistance. Alessandro also shared a crucial travel hack for staying connected in China, recommending Holafly's eSIM service. He highlighted its reliability, even in crowded areas and remote locations like the Great Wall, enabling seamless communication and social media use, which is often restricted by China's internet policies.
The ascent to the Buddha was physically demanding, as Alessandro candidly admits, describing it as "hard." However, the emotional reward of reaching the summit and witnessing the colossal statue firsthand was immense. He expresses pure joy and disbelief at finally being there, a dream realized after a year of planning and watching YouTube videos.
For those less inclined to strenuous climbs, Alessandro suggests the alternative river cruise. This offers a different perspective, providing the iconic full-body view of the Buddha. He notes that while the experience was tiring, especially for the children, it was absolutely worth it. Navigating the site presented some challenges, with limited English signage, a common issue in tourist areas. Despite the exhaustion and the family's fatigue from an early start, the spiritual and positive energy of Leshan left a lasting impression, making the arduous journey a deeply rewarding one.
FAQs (From the traveler's perspective)
- Q: What was the most surprising thing about the Leshan Giant Buddha experience?
- A: The most surprising thing was the intense, almost mystical energy that pervaded the entire area, which helped push through the challenging climb.
- Q: How did Alessandro and his family stay connected in China?
- A: They used Holafly's eSIM service, which provided reliable internet and allowed them to use social media like WhatsApp and Instagram without interruption.
- Q: What are the best ways to see the Leshan Giant Buddha?
- A: You can either climb the cliffside path for a close-up view or take a river cruise for an iconic, full-body perspective.
- Q: Was the climb to the Giant Buddha difficult?
- A: Yes, it was described as very hard and tiring, with many stairs, especially in the hot and humid weather.
- Q: Are there many English signs at the Leshan Giant Buddha site?
- A: No, the traveler mentioned that there aren't a lot of directions in English, even though it's a tourist area.
