Japan, US, and South Korea Flock to Leshan Giant Buddha: Airlines See Boost in Bookings as Sichuan’s Tourism Hits New Heights!

Published on November 24, 2025

Japan, US, and South Korea flock to Leshan Giant Buddha: Airlines see a boost in bookings as Sichuan’s tourism hits new heights! The towering 71-meter Buddha, carved into the cliffs of Sichuan province, has become a must-visit attraction for travelers seeking a glimpse of China’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. In 2025, international visitors to the Leshan Giant Buddha surged by 44.74%, with tourists from Japan, the United States, and South Korea leading the charge. This rise in global interest is being reflected in the region’s airline and hospitality industries, as carriers like China Eastern and Cathay Pacific respond with increased flight services to Chengdu, the gateway to Leshan. With tourism numbers rising, the hospitality sector, including major hotel brands like Marriott and Hilton, is also experiencing a boom in demand, marking Sichuan’s emergence as a premier travel destination in China. This influx of visitors is transforming not only the local economy but also the overall travel experience, making it easier and more enjoyable for international tourists to explore the cultural marvels of Sichuan.

Japan, US, and South Korea Flock to Leshan Giant Buddha: Airlines See Boost in Bookings as Sichuan’s Tourism Hits New Heights!

The Leshan Giant Buddha, an awe-inspiring monument nestled in the heart of Sichuan province, China, is experiencing a resurgence in international visitors. As one of the world’s largest and most renowned ancient statues, it has become a must-see attraction for travelers from around the globe. With tourism to the site surging, especially from countries like Japan, the United States, and South Korea, airlines and the hospitality industry are benefiting from the increased influx of tourists. This rise in tourism has not only boosted local businesses but also reshaped the way tourists experience Sichuan, with more emphasis on cultural immersion, efficient travel, and world-class services.

A Monumental Surge in Visitors to Leshan Giant Buddha

The Leshan Giant Buddha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands as a towering 71-meter-tall seated statue carved into a cliff face over 1,300 years ago. Located in Leshan, a city in Sichuan province, the statue represents Maitreya Buddha and has long been a symbol of peace and spiritual significance. However, in recent years, the site has seen a marked increase in international visitors. By November 2025, official figures reported over 300,000 international tourists, a staggering 44.74% year-on-year increase compared to the previous year.

This surge in visitors is largely due to the growing appeal of China’s heritage sites among global travelers. Countries like Japan, South Korea, the United States, and Vietnam are leading the charge, with many travelers coming specifically to explore the Leshan Giant Buddha and the nearby Mount Emei. The increase in international tourism to Sichuan has reshaped not just the local economy but also the travel infrastructure, with airlines and hospitality providers stepping up to meet the growing demand.

Japan, US, and South Korea Flock to Leshan Giant Buddha

As the popularity of the Leshan Giant Buddha grows, it has become a key destination for tourists from Japan, the United States, and South Korea. Japan, in particular, has seen a significant rise in tourist numbers, with Japanese travelers accounting for a large portion of the international visitors to the site. This surge in tourism is being reflected in the travel booking patterns of major airlines.

China Eastern Airlines, one of the largest carriers in China, has seen a noticeable increase in flights to Chengdu, the closest major city to Leshan. From here, tourists can easily access the Leshan Giant Buddha by a short drive. The airline’s efforts to boost international routes have resulted in a steady rise in bookings from Japanese, South Korean, and US tourists. Similarly, Cathay Pacific, known for its international routes, has been expanding services to China’s western regions, catering to the growing demand for flights into Chengdu, which serves as a hub for tourists visiting Sichuan’s cultural landmarks.

For airlines, the increase in bookings has been substantial. Many routes between major cities like Tokyo, Seoul, and Los Angeles to Chengdu have seen higher load factors, reflecting the growing international interest in the region. Airlines have also responded by introducing more competitive pricing, special promotions, and packaged tours that combine flights and accommodations, making it easier for international tourists to explore the region without hassle.

Airlines and Hospitality Industry Benefit from Tourism Surge

The growth in international tourism to Sichuan has had a profound effect on both airlines and the hospitality industry. With more tourists flying into Chengdu, the region’s airports have expanded services to accommodate the influx of visitors. Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, which is just over an hour’s drive from Leshan, has seen an uptick in international flights, with more routes being introduced to meet the demand. Airlines like China Southern, Air China, and Hainan Airlines have all increased the frequency of their flights between major cities in East Asia, North America, and Chengdu.

These airlines are benefiting not just from increased ticket sales but also from ancillary revenue, including baggage fees, onboard services, and additional travel-related services. To meet the expectations of international travelers, many airlines have been enhancing their customer service offerings, including offering multilingual assistance, better food options, and convenient booking systems.

At the same time, the hospitality industry in Sichuan has been adjusting to accommodate a diverse group of international visitors. Hotels near the Leshan Giant Buddha are seeing an influx of bookings, especially from global brands like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt. These major hotel chains are expanding their presence in the region, recognizing the potential for growth in Sichuan’s tourism market. With many international tourists opting for luxury and mid-range accommodations, hotels have been increasing their investments in infrastructure, offering better amenities, and enhancing their overall customer experience.

Larger hotels near Leshan and Chengdu are seeing record occupancy rates, particularly during peak tourist seasons, which typically coincide with the Chinese New Year and summer holidays. This has created a more competitive environment in the local hospitality sector, pushing both international and domestic hotel chains to upgrade their facilities and services to attract international travelers.

Travel Tips for Visiting Leshan Giant Buddha

If you’re planning a trip to the Leshan Giant Buddha, there are a few key travel tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some helpful suggestions to make the most of your visit:

Best Time to Visit: The peak tourist seasons are during the Chinese New Year (typically January or February) and the summer months of July and August. To avoid large crowds, consider visiting during the spring or autumn months, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

Transportation: The easiest way to reach Leshan from Chengdu is by car, taxi, or tour bus. It’s a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Chengdu to the Leshan Giant Buddha, making it a perfect day trip from the city. If you’re flying into Chengdu, there are plenty of transportation options available, including private transfers, which can be booked in advance.

Ticketing and Services: The Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Area has improved its services for international tourists in recent years. You can buy tickets online in advance, and many of the attractions have multilingual signs and guides. The ticket price typically includes access to the Buddha, surrounding temples, and the nearby Mount Emei, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Weather: Sichuan has a subtropical climate, so it can get quite hot in the summer. Be sure to dress appropriately and carry water, especially if you’re planning to explore the area during peak tourist seasons. If you’re visiting in the winter, pack warm clothing as temperatures can dip in the evenings.

Accommodation: There are a wide range of accommodations near the Leshan Giant Buddha, from budget hotels to luxury resorts. International hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton have established a presence in the area, offering comfortable and convenient stays for tourists. Many of these hotels offer shuttle services to the Leshan Giant Buddha, making it easier to access the site.

Cultural Respect: The Leshan Giant Buddha is a sacred site, so visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions. Be mindful of your behavior, avoid loud noise, and dress modestly, especially when visiting temples and other religious sites.

Flight Details to Sichuan

When flying to Sichuan, international travelers typically fly into Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, which serves as the primary gateway for foreign tourists visiting Leshan. Several international airlines provide direct flights to Chengdu, including China Southern Airlines, Air China, and Cathay Pacific. These airlines offer regular flights from major international hubs like Tokyo, Seoul, Los Angeles, and San Francisco to Chengdu.

For instance, China Southern Airlines operates direct flights between Chengdu and Tokyo Narita, Seoul Incheon, and New York JFK, while Cathay Pacific provides services from Hong Kong to Chengdu. Air China also runs flights between Chengdu and cities like Beijing and Los Angeles, offering flexible options for tourists arriving in the region.

Airlines have recognized the growing demand for Sichuan’s tourist attractions, and as a result, they have been increasing flight frequencies and introducing new routes. The availability of direct flights to Chengdu makes it easier than ever for international tourists to visit the Leshan Giant Buddha and explore the broader Sichuan region.

The Future of Sichuan’s Tourism Industry

Looking ahead, the future of Sichuan’s tourism industry looks bright. With increasing international arrivals and more airlines adding flights to the region, tourism will continue to be a key driver of the local economy. The government of Sichuan has been investing in infrastructure to support the growth of tourism, including upgrading transportation networks and improving the overall visitor experience.

The success of the Leshan Giant Buddha as a top international tourist destination is only the beginning. In addition to the Giant Buddha, Sichuan boasts a wealth of other cultural and natural attractions, including Mount Emei, Jiuzhaigou Valley, and the giant panda breeding centers in Chengdu. As the region continues to develop its tourism infrastructure and attract more global visitors, the hospitality and airline industries will remain central to the success of Sichuan’s growing tourism market.

Japan, US, and South Korea flock to Leshan Giant Buddha: Airlines see a boost in bookings as Sichuan’s tourism hits new heights! With international travel surging, the iconic Buddha is becoming a global sensation, driving a boom in both flights and hotel stays.

Wrapping Up

Sichuan’s tourism industry, driven by the soaring popularity of the Leshan Giant Buddha, is experiencing an unprecedented boom. As more international visitors flock to this cultural treasure, airlines and hospitality providers are capitalizing on the opportunity to offer world-class services and accommodations. For travelers seeking an unforgettable cultural experience in China, a visit to the Leshan Giant Buddha should be at the top of their list. With improved flight connections, luxurious hotels, and enhanced services, Sichuan is quickly becoming one of China’s premier tourist destinations. As tourism continues to rise, both airlines and hotels are poised to see even more growth, cementing Sichuan’s place on the world’s travel map.