Chengdu Trip - Sichuan Opera and Le Shan Grand Buddha
All right folks - so after seeing the adorable pandas, we headed off to Jinli Ancient Street in Chengdu, which basically is a bustling street where you can savor some delicious street food and also shop in small stores for several traditional items Later in the evening, I decided to go watch the Sichuan Opera, and I'm VERY GLAD that I made this decision. The Opera was FANTASTIC featuring some incredible acts and traditional performances. Take a look at the pictures:
Following are photos of The Costume and Face Changing Acts. These performers changed their masks/costumes in split seconds!
The next day, I was all excited to go to The Grand Buddha site, at Le Shan, near Chengdu. I was particularly interested in this visit since I was very intrigued by the fact the mighty Buddha(233 ft) was built several years ago in 713, and was carved out of a cliff (in those days! How challenging would that be?). The following pictures speak volumes about the mightiness of the holy Buddha.
Tourists praying by the feet of the Grand Buddha.
Kneeling at the feet to pray, and then looking up, gazing at the Grand Buddha - this moment has been etched in my memory forever.
Another memorable experience for me was visiting the ancient temple near the Grand Buddha, and the conversations about various religions with my guide/friend. She gave me some great insights into Chinese Buddhism, and while conversing with her, and through observations, I noticed commonalities between Chinese Buddhism and Hinduism. She also explained to me the various symbols around the temple (I loveeeeeeee symbolism!) This got us talking about Buddhism in China, Tibet, and India, Hinduism, and Taoism. We spoke at length throughout the trip, and I ended my day, feeling a deep sense of joy from exploring Chengdu, and meeting its people. To me, more than the touristy places, it is the little observations made by walking around a city, and the people you come across, that make the journey worthwhile.
Photos of the ancient temple:
That's it on Chengdu. I will blog further about our 'Walks' around Chongqing and key takeaways on China - the experience :)
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
1 Comments
Emeishan and Leshan are Buddhism area.Leshan Giant Buddha is the largest stone sculpture of Buddha in the world.As the only world heritage of Chongqing municipality,Dazu stone carving attracts vistors with its careful and exequisite work on the staues, the social and art value.