Zen Resort (IV) Leshan Zen Resort·Jinye Hotel

"A mustard seed holds Mount Sumeru; elegance dwells in simplicity." Jinye Hotel was my first encounter with the Zen Resort brand in 2023, and it quickly became my most frequented favorite. Over the years, our relationship deepened as I stayed at nearly all their properties, turning me into a devoted fan. In the scenic city of Leshan, two Zen Resort hotels—Jinye and Jiading Courtyard—stand just a stone's throw apart, both nestled by the Min River and close to the Leshan Giant Buddha. These photos, taken on November 29, 2024, capture Jinye Hotel during its golden ginkgo leaf season. As the inaugural property of Zen Resort, Jinye Hotel has embodied Zen philosophy since its opening in April 2015. Its 47 Zen-inspired rooms are thoughtfully designed: some face gardens to listen to the wind, others overlook ponds to watch koi, while a few open onto ancient streets for panoramic views. The courtyard features a quaint bridge over clear water, where goldfish paint living art. Hidden in the backyard alleys lies a summer retreat—sipping tea by the stream, admiring succulent walls, with every snapshot exuding Zen aesthetics. Details that stole my heart: ▪️ On-demand shuttle service from the parking lot to the lobby, Leshan Giant Buddha, museums, or Jiading Courtyard—drivers even handle luggage with warm greetings, turning commutes into delights; ▪️ The "Rusu" vegetarian restaurant redefines expectations! As a die-hard carnivore, I was won over by their meat-free cuisine. Breakfast incorporates Leshan street food flavors, proving plant-based meals can be soul-satisfying; ▪️ The "Zhengqing" teahouse by the ancient street blends tea aromas with cultural vibes, serving as a sanctuary for global travelers; ▪️ Meet the mascot "Xiaoxiao," a sociable parrot who follows kids into rooms while chirping its name—inspired, my family adopted a cockatiel; ▪️ Then there's the so-called "Chonky Orange," a rotund cat often mistaken for pregnancy—truth is, he's just the resident heavyweight champion! For deeper immersion, don the provided Zen robes and join activities like scripture copying or Baduanjin exercises. Tracing calligraphy strokes or strolling ancient lanes in flowing sleeves reveals how "perfection hides in simplicity"—a truth woven into Jinye's every brick, tea leaf, and purring companion.