Giant Buddha Leshan

Eastern city of Leshan, Chengdu, is home to the Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Spot, named after the giant statue of Buddha. It is actually a statue of Maitreya, a Bodhisattva who represents the fat laughing brightness and happiness. It was included in the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1996. Leshan Giant Buddha Scenic Spot full of historical sites and beautiful nature, with a giant Buddha became the most famous people. The best place to view the Leshan Giant Buddha of Mt. Lingyun, thus carving a giant who is often called Lingyun Giant Buddha.

Carving the statue began in the Tang Dynasty and continued for 90 years. The river below the location of the statue was one very dangerous for ships going down the river, and many people are killed every year. Priory Hai Tong believes that by building a statue, the river gods would be appeased, and it will save many lives. Hai Tong pleaded for 20 years to obtain sufficient funds to carve the statue. According to legend, when some local government officials heard a huge amount of money Hai Tong has been acquired, they try to get it from him. He told them that he would rather remove my own eyes rather than give money. They are greedy officials did not believe him, so he took a knife and dig out his own eyes, which officially became afraid to leave him alone, and the money saved. The statue was only half done when Hai Tong passed away, and the work was continued by two students.