Tea Village in lost Town and Buddha 1 day tour

Exploring Chengdu’s Hidden Gems: The Tea Village and Leshan Buddha Tour

This 1-day tour from Chengdu offers a fascinating blend of iconic sights and authentic local culture. With a visit to the UNESCO-listed Leshan Giant Buddha combined with a journey into a traditional tea village, it promises a well-rounded day of awe-inspiring views and immersive experiences. Guided by a knowledgeable local, you’ll enjoy comfortable transportation, private visits, and plenty of opportunities to learn and taste your way through Sichuan.

What we particularly love about this tour is its focus on genuine cultural interactions—from boat trips around the Buddha to harvesting tea in the mountains—giving travelers a chance to see the real side of Sichuan. A potential consideration is that the day is quite packed, so it might feel rushed for those who prefer a slower pace. Still, it’s perfect for travelers eager to combine must-see attractions with hands-on local experiences.

This tour suits anyone interested in iconic landmarks, traditional crafts, and regional cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, a tea enthusiast, or simply looking for an authentic day outside the tourist crowds, this adventure offers value and memorable moments.

Key Points

• Iconic Sightseeing: The Leshan Giant Buddha boat trip offers stunning views of the world’s largest stone Buddha.
• Authentic Cultural Interactions: Visiting a 600-year-old Qing Dynasty tea house and a local tea farm provides real insight into Sichuan’s tea traditions.
• Personalized Experience: A private guide and vehicle make for a flexible, intimate day tailored to your interests.
• Delicious Local Food: Enjoy a variety of regional snacks and a hearty Sichuan-style lunch included in the tour.
• Rich History and Arts: Explore an ancient town with traditional workshops and family courtyards, like shoe-making and blacksmithing.
• Value for Money: The 9-hour tour, including transportation, boat trip, and tea activities, offers comprehensive value at around $169 per person.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Early Morning Pickup and Transfer to Leshan

The day begins with a prompt hotel pickup at 8:00 am, setting the tone for a smooth, hassle-free experience. The drive to Leshan takes around two hours, giving you time to enjoy the scenic countryside and prepare for the day ahead. This early start ensures you beat most crowds to the Buddha and the old town.

Stop 1: Leshan Giant Buddha and Boat Tour

Arriving at the Leshan Giant Buddha, you’ll first admire this colossal statue, carved into the cliffs over the rivers. The boat trip around the Buddha (from 10:10 to 10:50) is a highlight, offering a unique angle to appreciate the monument’s scale and the surrounding landscape. Reviewers mention that the boat ride “provides a spectacular viewpoint from the water,” showcasing the Buddha from a perspective not possible on land.

Next, you’ll take a guided walk around the site (11:20-12:00), where your guide will share insights into the Buddha’s history and significance. The site’s awe-inspiring size and peaceful surroundings make it a compelling stop. The admission ticket is included, removing the hassle of separate entry fees.

Stop 2: Exploring the Ancient Town of Leshan

After the Buddha, the tour continues to a 1400-year-old town nearby, often described as a “time traveler’s journey.” Here, you’ll experience real local life—walking past old workshops, traditional tea houses, and family courtyards that seem untouched by modern development.

Reviewers like Patryk mention the authenticity of this part of the tour, highlighting visits to old-style haircut salons, shoe shops, and blacksmiths. It’s a glimpse of living history, where locals still craft by hand and carry on age-old traditions.

The old town also offers a chance to taste traditional snacks, included in the tour, which allow you to sample Sichuan flavors straight from the source. The relaxed pace here lets you appreciate the architecture and meet locals, making this a highlight for lovers of authentic cultural experiences.

Stop 3: Tea Plantation and Harvesting Experience

In the afternoon, you’ll drive up into the hills to Jiajiang Tianfu Tea Plantation, the largest tea market in southwest China. Led by a local tea farmer, you’ll learn how to pick tea leaves, observing the process directly from the person who grows and harvests them.

The tea family visit gives you the chance to see traditional handmade tea-making techniques, including drying and rolling. Many reviewers, including Vonnie, describe this as a “phenomenally rich cultural experience,” where you can try making tea yourself—an experience that often becomes a cherished souvenir.

This part of the tour is especially valuable for tea lovers, offering a genuine taste of how regional teas are produced. Plus, the scenic views of the lush mountains make the whole experience particularly memorable.

Returning to Chengdu

After a relaxed afternoon, the group heads back to Chengdu around 16:00, arriving by 18:00. This allows enough time for travelers to continue exploring the city or relax after their full day.

The Practicalities and What to Expect

Transportation: The tour provides a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a smooth ride through the countryside and between sites. With a maximum group size of 15, you’ll enjoy a personalized feel without feeling cramped.

Guides: The local guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Reviewers mention guides like Patrick and Sheldon, who go above and beyond to share stories and answer questions. Their fluent English makes complex sites easier to understand and appreciate.

Timing: The schedule is quite packed but well-structured, with most stops lasting around 2 hours. It’s designed for travelers who want to maximize sights without rushing. Be prepared for a full day; early mornings and a lot of walking are involved.

Cost and Value: At $169.24 per person, this tour includes boat trips, entry tickets, tea activities, and a traditional lunch. Considering the depth of experience—especially the hands-on tea making and authentic old town—the value is excellent for those seeking a full culture.

Reviews Highlight: Travelers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides, spectacular views of the Buddha, and delicious regional snacks as standout features. Some mention the experience of drinking tea with a family, which is a rare and authentic moment many cherish.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers interested in history, culture, and authentic local food. If you’re keen on seeing the world’s largest stone Buddha and want to combine that with a genuine tea-making experience, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s ideal for those who appreciate a personalized approach and are comfortable with a fairly full schedule. The tour’s focus on local life, crafts, and regional flavors makes it perfect for travelers who prefer immersive experiences over superficial sightseeing.

Travelers new to Sichuan will find this a fantastic introduction, offering a taste of the region’s spiritual and cultural essence in one day.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a well-rounded, immersive day outside of Chengdu, this tour delivers in multiple ways. The inclusion of iconic landmarks like Leshan’s Buddha, combined with hands-on experiences in traditional tea villages, means you’re not just observing but actively participating in local culture. The personal guide ensures you get meaningful insights and plenty of time to ask questions or explore at your own pace.

The value-for-money aspect is clear, especially considering the number of included activities—from boat rides to tea harvesting—and the small group size enhances the overall experience. Whether you’re a history lover, a tea enthusiast, or simply looking for an authentic slice of Sichuan life, this trip provides a memorable, enriching day.

If you want to see the highlights but also go deeper into local traditions, this is a solid choice—offering genuine moments and excellent photo opportunities along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s suitable for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and walking.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the entire day.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a local Sichuan-style lunch and various regional snacks.

How long is the boat trip at Leshan?
The boat trip lasts about 40 minutes, offering a scenic view of the Buddha from the water.

What can I expect at the tea plantation?
You’ll learn how to pick tea leaves, see traditional tea-making methods, and even try making tea yourself with the family.

Is the tour private or shared?
The tour is conducted with a group of up to 15 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are entry tickets included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the Buddha and tea plantation are covered in the price.

Can I customize the experience?
While the tour is structured, the guide’s local knowledge allows for some flexibility and questions along the way.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera. A light jacket might be useful if the weather is cooler.

How early do I need to book?
Most travelers book about 23 days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

This full-day adventure from Chengdu offers a great mix of iconic sights and authentic cultural moments. If you’re eager to learn about Sichuan’s art of tea-making and see the impressive Leshan Buddha without feeling overwhelmed, this tour hits all the right notes.