Wuhou TempleTravel Guide
Highlights, History & Visitor Information
Wuhou Temple (Bukoushi) is one of China's most famous shrines, dedicated to Zhuge Liang (Kongming), one of China's most popular and wise generals. Its history dates back to the Northern and Southern Dynasties, and it was moved to its current location during the Ming Dynasty and rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty. The title "Wuhou" comes from Zhuge Liang's posthumous title (Marquis of Wuxiang). This is the only shrine in China where the monarch and his vassal, Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang, are enshrined in the same place, making it a sacred place for fans of the Three Kingdoms period. The temple is home to many precious stone monuments and cultural relics, making it a historical space where you can experience the romance and loyalty of the "Romance of the Three Kingdoms."
1. Main Highlights
🏯 Main architecture and highlights of the shrine
The main buildings are arranged along a central axis, creating a majestic atmosphere.
• Liu Bei Hall (Zhao Lie Temple):
The first thing you see from the entrance is the main hall, dedicated to the first emperor of Shu Han, Liu Bei Xuande. A statue of Liu Bei is enshrined inside the hall, and on either side are statues of his grandson Liu Chen, as well as Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, who contributed to the founding of Shu Han.
• Zhuge Liang Hall (Wuhou Temple):
Located behind the Liu Bei Hall, this is the core area of the ancestral temple. Statues of Zhuge Liang and his son are enshrined here, with a plaque above their heads reading "Named after the Universe," a testament to their fame throughout the world. Inside the hall, you'll find the particularly famous "Three Perfect Monuments," so named for their exquisite writing, calligraphy, and carving.
• Civil servant Busho corridor:
The long corridors on both sides of the Liu Bei Hall are lined with life-size painted statues of 28 civil servants and military commanders who supported the Shu Han Dynasty. This is a spectacular spot where you can see all the familiar heroes from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, including Pang Tong, Fei Yi, Huang Zhong, and Zhao Yun, all in one place.
• Huiling (Liu Bei Tomb):
Located to the west of the ancestral temple is the actual tomb of Liu Bei Xuande. The 12-meter-high circular mound is also known as the "Tomb of Three" because Lady Gan and Empress Mu are buried there. Located in a tranquil forest, it exudes a sense of historical romance.
2. Historical Stories
📜 History and people associated with Wuhou Temple
• The "Three Visits" and the "Plan to Divide the World into Three": The story of Liu Bei's three visits to Zhuge Liang to welcome him as his military strategist, and the "Plan to Divide the World into Three" are famous episodes from the Romance of the Three Kingdoms that are also widely known in Japan. Wuhou Temple is the perfect place to reflect on the deep trust between these two men and their dream of founding the state of Shu Han.
• Zhuge Liang: A brilliant strategist and inventor, as well as a loyal and selfless vassal of his country, Zhuge Liang is one of the most respected figures in Chinese history. His "Tablet of Committing Battle" remains a faithful document of his devotion.
3. Useful Information Before Your Visit
Address：No. 231, Wuhou Ci Street, Wuhou District, Chengdu City, Sichuan Province
Opening Hours：5/1-10/31: 8:00-20:00 (last entry 19:00)
11/1-4/30: 8:00-19:00 (last entry 18:00)
Closed days：None (Open daily throughout the year).
Admission Tickets：Adult tickets cost 50 yuan. Advance purchase online is recommended.
4. Visiting Etiquette and Important Notes
• Set tour with Jinli: Planning a tour as a set is highly efficient and recommended, such as visiting Wuhou Temple in the daytime to experience the culture of the Three Kingdoms, and then visiting the neighboring Jinli in the evening to enjoy the night view and a meal.
• Study the Romance of the Three Kingdoms: Reading through the main episodes of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms before your visit will help you understand and appreciate the statues and exhibits inside the temple more deeply.
• Behave as if you are in a sacred place: Shrines are sacred historical sites. Please refrain from talking loudly and try to be quiet when visiting.
5. Pandaland Trip's Original Tour Services
At Pandaland Trip, we offer a unique service that allows you to fully enjoy the charm of Wuhou Temple even if you have no knowledge of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, and experience the thrill of stepping onto the stage of history.
• Three Kingdoms Expert Guide: Instead of simply stating facts, our guide will passionately explain the stories of historical figures like Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang, focusing on their "trust" and the value of the "Three Heroes Stele," all in your native language.
• Efficient route planning: We will suggest the best sightseeing route to take in all the highlights of Wuhou Temple and Jinli within a limited time.
• Collaboration plan with Jinli: After visiting Wuhou Temple, your guide will show you Jinli's specialty snacks and recommended souvenir shops, and will also assist you with dining and shopping.
• Help finding Romance of the Three Kingdoms merchandise: We will introduce you to books and merchandise related to the Romance of the Three Kingdoms (such as Zhang Fei beef) that suit your needs in the park and Jinli.
• Complete Support in Your Native Language: Whether it's the explanation of difficult Chinese characters or historical context, our staff will provide detailed explanations in your native language, so even first-time visitors can feel at ease.
To fully immerse yourself in the world of the Three Kingdoms and feel the breath of the heroes, a guided tour with Pandaland Trip in your native language is the best choice. Our guides, who are passionate about the Romance of the Three Kingdoms, will make the story even more vivid and your journey even more moving. Please feel free to contact us for more information.
