The Leshan Giant Buddha is located on the east bank of the Minjiang River in the south of Leshan City, Sichuan Province. It is the world’s largest stone-carved sitting statue of Maitreya Buddha. Standing at a height of 71 meters, its head is level with the mountain. It has a dignified sitting posture and a kind face, and is an outstanding representative of ancient Chinese stone-carving art.

The carving of the Giant Buddha was initiated in the first year of the Kaiyuan era of the Tang Dynasty (713 AD) by Master Haitong. It took 90 years to complete and was finished in the 19th year of the Zhenyuan era (803 AD). The purpose of its construction was to reduce the fierce waves at the confluence of the three rivers and ensure the safe navigation of ships. The craftsmen made use of the natural rock and skillfully integrated the Buddha statue with the mountain. This not only ensured the stability of the Buddha statue but also gave it a unique artistic effect.

Today, the Leshan Giant Buddha is not only a Buddhist holy land but also a world cultural and natural heritage. It has witnessed the glory of ancient Chinese civilization and attracted countless tourists and scholars to visit and conduct research. In front of the Giant Buddha, people can feel the wisdom and creativity of ancient craftsmen, as well as humanity’s yearning and pursuit for a better life.