China's first Buddhist temple was built on this mountain peak in the 1st century

Countries & Cities · Published 30 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Mount Emei is a sacred landscape where ancient architecture meets extreme biodiversity. Rising from the Sichuan Basin, this mountain has served as a spiritual sanctuary for two millennia. It is home to the world's tallest Buddhist sculpture and remains a vital site for both religious practice and ecological conservation today.

Mount Emei, located in China's Sichuan Province, holds a unique place in history as the site where Buddhism first established its presence in the country. During the 1st century CE, the first Buddhist temple in China was constructed on its summit. Over the following centuries, the mountain evolved into one of the four most significant holy lands for Chinese Buddhists, eventually hosting more than 30 temples that demonstrate remarkable architectural ingenuity by integrating traditional designs directly into the rugged hillside terrain.

The site's cultural importance is anchored by the Leshan Giant Buddha, a 71-meter-tall sculpture carved into the Xijuo Peak during the 8th century CE. As the largest Buddhist statue in the world, it overlooks the confluence of the Minjiang, Dadu, and Qingyi rivers. Beyond its religious monuments, the area is a treasure trove of history, containing hundreds of Han Dynasty tombs and a vast collection of artifacts, including iron-cast statues and ancient calligraphy, all preserved through a management tradition dating back to the mid-10th century.

Ecologically, the mountain is a site of exceptional variety, spanning an elevation range of 2,600 meters. This transition from subtropical evergreen forests to subalpine conifer zones supports approximately 3,200 plant species and 2,300 animal species. With over 100 endemic plant species and numerous threatened animals, the area serves as a critical refuge for biodiversity. Today, the 15,400-hectare scenic area remains protected by strict government regulations and the presence of monks who act as stewards, ensuring the site remains both a spiritual landmark and a natural sanctuary.

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