Mount Emei is one of the Four Great Buddhist Mountains in China and the sacred bodhimanda of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva.
Basic Overview
Mount Emei is located in Emeishan City, Leshan City, Sichuan Province.
It is famous for its breathtaking natural beauty, praised as "the most beautiful under heaven".
Together with the Leshan Giant Buddha, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site in 1996.
The highest peak is Wanfo Summit, reaching 3,099 meters above sea level — the highest among China's Four Great Buddhist Mountains.
The iconic Golden Summit (Jinding) stands at 3,079 meters.
Buddhist History & Origin
Buddhism was introduced to Mount Emei as early as the Eastern Han Dynasty.
It was officially established as the bodhimanda of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva in the Tang Dynasty.
In the Song Dynasty, the huge bronze statue of Samantabhadra riding an elephant was cast, which is still preserved today.
At its peak, there were more than 100 temples. Now there are 26 well-preserved major temples.
Major Temples & Landmarks
Baoguo Temple
The main entrance temple of Mount Emei and the headquarters of the local Buddhist Association.
Wannian Temple
Home to the national treasure: a 62‑ton bronze statue of Samantabhadra riding a white elephant.
Golden Summit (Huazang Temple)
The symbol of Mount Emei.
It features the 48‑meter‑high Golden Statue of Ten‑faced Samantabhadra.
The top four wonders are: sunrise, sea of clouds, Buddha's light, and sacred lamps.
Qingyin Pavilion
Known for "Twin Bridges and Clear Sounds", the most elegant and quiet spot on the mountain.
Fuhu Temple
A tranquil ancient temple surrounded by ancient nanmu trees.
Xixiang Chi (Elephant Washing Pool)
A legendary place where Samantabhadra washed his elephant. It is also a good place to see monkeys.
Culture & Features
Mount Emei Buddhist Music is a national intangible cultural heritage.
Emei Martial Arts is one of the three most famous martial arts schools in China.
Wild Tibetan macaques are a special ecological attraction.
Transportation Tips
Take a high‑speed train to Emeishan Station (about 1.5 hours from Chengdu).
Scenic buses and cable cars are available to reach the Golden Summit.