Location & How to Get There

Dujiangyan Thousand-Buddha Pagoda sits quietly in Lingyan Temple, just 5 kilometers north of Dujiangyan City in Sichuan Province. To reach this hidden gem, you can either drive from Chengdu (about 1 hour) or take a local bus from Dujiangyan市区. If you’re coming from nearby attractions like Qingcheng Mountain, it’s just a short taxi ride away. The pagoda is nestled on the left side of Lingyan Temple, so keep an eye out for signs when you arrive!

Natural Scenery: A Mountain Retreat

The pagoda is surrounded by lush forests and fresh mountain air, making it a perfect escape from city crowds. Lingyan Mountain, where the temple and pagoda are located, offers gentle hiking trails and peaceful spots to sit and enjoy the scenery. In spring, wildflowers bloom along the paths, and in autumn, the leaves turn golden—ideal for photos or quiet reflection. Don’t miss the view of the Min River valley from higher points in the temple grounds!

Cultural & Historical Charm

Dujiangyan Thousand-Buddha Pagoda is a true treasure for history lovers. Built in the Tang Dynasty (around 713–741 AD) by Indian monk Ashvaghosha, this stone pagoda stands at just 3 meters tall but packs a punch with details. Its unique stupa-style design (a round, solid tower) is rare in China, and each of the 13 layers is carved with tiny Buddha statues—over 800 in total! The bottom layers show Buddhas sitting in lotus positions with glowing haloes, while the upper layers get smaller but equally detailed. Even the top has iron-cast statues added later, blending old and new styles.

Fun fact: This pagoda was so famous in the Song Dynasty that a poet named Fan Chengda wrote about it, calling it a “timeless masterpiece.” Today, it’s still one of Sichuan’s most unique ancient sites!

Exploring the Pagoda Up Close

When you visit Dujiangyan Thousand-Buddha Pagoda, take a moment to touch the cool, weathered stone—it’s amazing to think it’s been standing for 1,300 years! The carvings are incredibly delicate: each Buddha has smooth, flowing robes and a calm face. Look closely at the tiny figures (some just a few centimeters tall) and notice how their clothes and hair are carved with precision. The tower’s shape, wide at the base and narrowing upwards, gives it a sturdy, pyramid-like feel.

Pro tip: Bring a small flashlight if you want to see the details in the shadows, or visit on a sunny day when the light highlights the carvings beautifully.

Practical Visit Details

  • Entrance fee: Included in Lingyan Temple’s ticket (usually around ¥20–¥50, depending on the season).
  • Opening hours: Generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but double-check online.
  • Facilities: There’s a parking lot for drivers, restrooms near the temple entrance, and a few vendors selling snacks and water. No food is allowed inside the pagoda area, so plan your meals in the town.
  • Guided tours: While there’s no official guide service, temple staff or locals might share stories if you ask nicely.

A Memorable Experience

Visiting Dujiangyan Thousand-Buddha Pagoda feels like stepping back in time. Unlike crowded tourist spots, this place stays peaceful—perfect for slowing down and soaking in history. Spend an hour wandering the temple grounds, then head to nearby teahouses in Dujiangyan City for a warm cup of Sichuan tea. If you’re lucky, you might even spot monks chanting near the pagoda—a sound that adds to the serene atmosphere.

Whether you’re into ancient art, photography, or simply finding quiet corners off the beaten path, Dujiangyan Thousand-Buddha Pagoda deserves a spot on your Chengdu-area itinerary. Just remember: the earlier you go, the better the light (and the fewer tourists!) for photos. Happy travels!