Leshan (& Meishan) | Day 3

We started the day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel buffet before catching a train to Meishan, a small city located southwest of Chengdu. Meishan is known for its cultural heritage and tranquil landscapes, offering a peaceful escape from the busier parts of Sichuan.

Once we arrived, our first stop was San Su Temple. This beautiful and historic site is nestled in a lush, leafy environment, surrounded by old trees and scenic walkways. The temple is actually the former residence of Su Dongpo, a famous poet, writer, and politician from the Song Dynasty. The complex is filled with courtyards, traditional wooden architecture, and tranquil gardens, providing a quiet atmosphere that invites reflection. It’s dedicated to Su Dongpo and his family, with exhibitions showcasing his life, writings, and the influence he had on Chinese literature and culture. Wandering through the temple grounds, we found ourselves immersed in history, with every corner offering a new insight into the life of one of China’s greatest cultural figures.

After exploring the temple, we stopped for lunch at Meizhou Dongpo, a well-known restaurant just outside the temple grounds. The restaurant is famous for its Dongpo pork, a dish named after Su Dongpo himself. The meal was rich and flavorful, a great way to continue the theme of the day, with dishes deeply rooted in Sichuan culinary traditions.

Post-lunch, we grabbed a taxi and headed to Dongpo Urban Wetland Park, a vast and serene park known for its peaceful ambiance and beautiful natural surroundings. The park is filled with lush greenery, meandering rivers, and wooden walkways that snake through the wetlands. It’s a haven for local wildlife, and there are plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the sounds of nature. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely walk or even some quiet contemplation after the busier activities of the morning. The mix of water features and greenery makes it a relaxing escape, and we spent some time just taking it all in.

In the late afternoon, we caught the train back to Leshan, where we decided to spend a quiet evening at the hotel. Later, we headed out for a short walk to a nearby community grocery store, where we picked up some fresh fruit and light snacks to wind down the day.