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Interior view of Wuhou Memorial Temple

Wuhou Memorial Temple Museum

The Wuhou Memorial Temple Museum, located in Chengdu, stands as one of China's most historically significant temples. It holds the unique distinction of being the only temple that jointly honors a ruler and his minister: Liu Bei, the emperor of Shu Han, and his prime minister Zhuge Liang (also known as Wuhou).

Interior view of Wuhou Memorial Temple

Historical Background

The temple's history dates back to 223 AD when Emperor Liu Bei was buried in the Huiling Mausoleum in southern Chengdu. The Temple of Liu Bei (Han Zhao Lie Temple) was built next to his tomb. The memorial temple for Zhuge Liang appeared around the 4th century beside Liu Bei's tomb. Over time, these three sites - Huiling Mausoleum, Han Zhao Lie Temple, and Wuhou Temple - became integrated into one complex, commonly known as the Wuhou Temple.

In the early Ming Dynasty, Prince Zhu Chun decided to combine the worship of both Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang in the same temple, creating a unique arrangement where a ruler and his minister were honored together. Although the temple was destroyed in late Ming Dynasty warfare, it was rebuilt in 1672 under the supervision of Song Kefa, the imperial inspector of Sichuan. This reconstruction established the basic layout we see today.

Statue of Zhuge Liang at Wuhou Temple

Architectural Features

The temple complex follows traditional Chinese architectural principles with a north-south orientation. Key structures include:

  • Main Gate: The impressive entrance featuring classical Chinese architecture
  • Second Gate: Adorned with calligraphy and couplets
  • Liu Bei Hall: Houses the statue of Emperor Liu Bei and his generals
  • Corridor of Ministers and Generals: Displays statues of 28 important Shu Han officials
  • Zhuge Liang Hall: Contains the statue of the renowned strategist
  • Huiling Mausoleum: The tomb of Liu Bei and his two empresses
  • Red Wall Corridor: A photogenic passageway with red walls and bamboo
Autumn leaves and statues at Wuhou Temple

Visitor Information

Admission

  • Adult ticket: ¥50
  • Opening hours: 9:00 - 18:00 (Last entry at 17:00)
  • Extended hours from July 16 to October 7: 8:30 - 19:00

Guided Tours

  1. In-person Guide
  • Chinese tour: ¥50/person (1-3 people), ¥40/person (4+ people)
  • Foreign language tour (English, Japanese, Korean): ¥70/person (1-3 people), ¥60/person (4+ people)
  1. Audio Guide
  • Available in 10 languages
  • Rental fee: ¥30 (¥200 deposit required)
Traditional architecture and water features at Wuhou Temple

Must-See Highlights

  1. Liu Bei Hall
  • Main shrine dedicated to Emperor Liu Bei
  • Features golden statues of Liu Bei and his sworn brothers
  • Displays the famous "Legacy of Excellence" plaque
  1. Zhuge Liang Hall
  • Houses the statue of the legendary strategist
  • Contains the wooden inscription of "Memorial to the Throne"
  • Features the famous "Attack the Heart" couplets
  1. Red Wall Corridor
  • Popular photography spot
  • Beautiful contrast between red walls and green bamboo
  • Best photographed in morning or late afternoon light
  1. Huiling Mausoleum
  • Final resting place of Liu Bei
  • Surrounded by ancient cypress trees
  • Features commemorative stone tablets

Nearby Dining

  1. Local Specialties
  • Husband and Wife Lung Slices (夫妻肺片)
  • Chengdu Dan Dan Noodles (担担面)
  • Zhangcha Duck (樟茶鸭)
  • Long Chaoshou Dumplings (龙抄手)
  • Zhong Dumplings (钟水饺)

Accommodation Options

Luxury

  • The Ritz-Carlton Chengdu
  • Location: Jinjiang District, about 3km from the temple
  • Features: High-end amenities, city views, spa facilities

Mid-Range

  • Hanting Hotel (Red Pavilion Metro Station Branch)
  • Modern S Hotel (Wuhou Temple Jinli Branch)
  • Both within walking distance of the temple

Budget

  • IN Residence (Wuhou Temple Branch)
  • Landai Tianyue Apartments
  • Both offer convenient access to tourist attractions

Travel Tips

  1. Advance Booking
  • Reserve tickets through the official website or WeChat account
  • Booking opens 7 days in advance
  • Each ID can book one ticket per day
  1. Best Times to Visit
  • Avoid weekends and holidays for smaller crowds
  • Early morning or late afternoon for better photos
  • Spring and autumn for comfortable weather
  1. Photography Guidelines
  • No flash photography inside buildings
  • Popular photo spots include the Red Wall Corridor
  • Respect other visitors when taking pictures
  1. Cultural Etiquette
  • Maintain quiet in temple areas
  • Do not touch artifacts or climb on structures
  • Dress modestly out of respect

The Wuhou Memorial Temple offers visitors a unique glimpse into China's Three Kingdoms period. Its historical significance, architectural beauty, and cultural importance make it a must-visit destination in Chengdu. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply interested in Chinese culture, the temple provides an enriching experience that brings the stories of ancient China to life.