Leshan | Day 2

This morning, we opted for the hotel buffet again for the sake of convenience, then set out to explore Suji Ancient Town, a historic gem not far from Leshan.

Suji Ancient Town is a well-preserved area known for its rich history, traditional architecture, and serene riverside setting. Originally founded over 1,400 years ago, it was once a bustling center of trade and culture. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into what life was like during ancient times, with its narrow, stone-paved streets, wooden buildings, and traditional Chinese courtyards.

As we wandered through the town, we passed numerous small shops selling a variety of goods—handicrafts, local snacks, and souvenirs. The architecture, with its sloped tiled roofs and intricate wooden carvings, gives the town a timeless feel. There’s a peaceful river running along one side of the town, and we crossed a beautiful stone bridge that connects both sides. The bridge itself is a relic, built centuries ago, offering great views of the water below. Along the riverbank, we also came across an ancient pier, once used for loading and unloading goods from boats that traveled between villages.

One of the more unique stops was the Beef Museum, which pays tribute to the long-standing tradition of beef production in the region. The museum highlights various methods of beef preparation, from traditional techniques to more modern innovations. It’s a fascinating dive into a rather unexpected subject, with exhibits showcasing the importance of beef in Sichuan cuisine and the local economy.

For lunch, we ate at one of the many small restaurants in the town. The meal was simple but full of flavour, and we also picked up some snacks from the numerous street vendors.

After we had explored the town to our heart’s content, we headed back to the hotel for a well-earned rest.