China Travel logoChina Travel
Du Fu Thatched Cottage's iconic thatched roof building

Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum

The Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum, located in the southwestern corner of Chengdu, stands as a testament to the life and works of Du Fu, one of China's greatest poets. This historic site, situated along the Huanhua Stream, served as Du Fu's residence from 759 AD when he sought refuge from the An Lushan Rebellion.

Historical Significance

During his four-year stay, despite living in modest conditions, Du Fu composed over 240 poems that would become classics of Chinese literature. Among these works are "Song of the Thatched Roof Torn by Autumn Winds" and "Happy Rain on a Spring Night," which vividly capture both the hardships of his personal life and the broader social upheaval of the Tang Dynasty.

Du Fu Thatched Cottage's iconic thatched roof building

The Museum Complex

Today, the museum complex spans approximately 24 hectares and includes several key areas:

  1. The Thatched Cottage: A reconstruction based on historical records and Du Fu's own poetry, featuring:

    • A kitchen in the east
    • A study facing west
    • Traditional Sichuan-style architecture without modern materials
    • Gardens with plants mentioned in Du Fu's poems

  2. Main Hall (Poetry History Hall): Houses exhibitions about Du Fu's life and works, including:

    • A life-sized statue of Du Fu
    • Calligraphy works of his poems
    • Historical artifacts
Interior view of Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum

  1. Gongbu Shrine: The memorial hall dedicated to Du Fu, featuring:

    • Ancient stone carvings
    • Historical inscriptions
    • Traditional architecture

  2. Gardens and Landscapes:

    • Bonsai Garden
    • Plum Garden
    • Bamboo paths
    • Traditional pavilions
Pavilions and lake within Du Fu Thatched Cottage grounds

Practical Information

Opening Hours

  • Summer (April-October): 8:00-18:30
  • Winter (November-March): 8:00-18:00

Admission

  • Regular ticket: ¥50
  • Students: ¥25
  • Annual pass: ¥100
  • Free admission for children under 6 years old

Getting There

  1. By Metro:

    • Line 4: Get off at Caotang North Road Station (Exit B), walk 900m
    • Line 5: Get off at Qingyang Temple Station (Exit B), walk 1.5km

  2. By Bus:

    • Routes 35, 58, 82, 151, 165, 170, 1024, 1031 to Du Fu Thatched Cottage stop

Audio Guide Options

  • Free audio guide through WeChat Official Account "Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum"
  • Rental audio guides available at all four gates (¥25)

Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit are:

  • Spring (March-May): When flowers bloom and the gardens are most beautiful
  • Autumn (September-November): When the weather is pleasant and the foliage is colorful

Avoid visiting during:

  • Summer afternoons (July-August): Can be very hot and crowded
  • Chinese national holidays: Extremely crowded

Tips for Visitors

  1. Photography:

    • Photography is allowed in most areas
    • Tripods may be restricted during peak hours
    • Best photo opportunities are in the gardens and near the thatched cottage

  2. Cultural Etiquette:

    • Speak quietly in memorial areas
    • Don't touch historical artifacts
    • Stay on designated paths

  3. Time Management:

    • Allow 2-3 hours for a complete visit
    • Visit early morning to avoid crowds
    • Consider guided tours for deeper historical context

Nearby Attractions

  1. Huanhua Stream Park:

    • Connected to the museum
    • Features traditional gardens and waterways
    • Perfect for a peaceful walk

  2. Local Dining:

    • Chen Mapo Tofu (陈麻婆豆腐) - Famous Sichuan restaurant
    • Traditional tea houses along Qintai Road
    • Local street food vendors near the museum

The Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life of one of China's most celebrated poets while showcasing traditional Chinese architecture and garden design. Its peaceful grounds and historical significance make it an essential stop for anyone interested in Chinese literature and culture.