Wuhou Memorial Temple, Temple of Marquis Wu, Chengdu Attractions, Sichuan Travel Information

The Wuhou Temple actually features three main sections. The Temple of the Han Dynasty Emperor Zhao Lie, the Wuhou Shrine dedicated to the 50 heroes of the Shu Kingdom, and the Temple of the Three Righteous Men. From the main gate you cross through a courtyard, and then reach another courtyard featuring the 50 heroes of the Shu Kingdom. The 50 heroes are displayed behind glass around the four sides of the courtyard. The seated figures have long hair and traditionally long beards or goatees, and are adorned with colorful robes. Two main figures regarded as the Shu Kingdom��s most prominent heroes are featured across the courtyard with larger statues. Liu Bei (161-223 AD), formerly known as Xuande from Hebei province, was the general credited with establishing the kingdom. His strategist and later the kingdom��s Prime Minister, Zhu Ge Liang (181-234 AD), is next to him. Mention either of these names to a Chengdu local and they will be very pleased and even impressed that a foreigner possesses such knowledge.

The Wuhou Temple Park is actually quite large. Take an entire afternoon or morning to wander around the park and get the most out of the Y60 admission price. The park��s vegetation is extremely well-kept and simply gorgeous to look at. The park maintains Bonsai, Peach, Pine, and Bamboo trees just to name a few. There is a turtle pond, a goldfish pond, and of course a few teahouses. Bring a book, some snacks, or some playing cards and bask in the fresh scents of the seemingly endless gardens.

Directions: The Wuhou Temple is located on Wuhouci Dajie. It is a main street and the temple��s large red walls are hard to miss. Take the southbound no. 1 bus from the city center. After you cross the river, just hop off when you see the unmistakable red walls.

Jinli Street, located to the east of the Wuhou Memorial Temple of Chengdu (the most famous Three Kingdoms period (220 - 280) relic museum in China) is particularly representative of this city. It is recorded that as early as the Qin Dynasty (221 BC - 206 BC), Jinli Street was the most famous place for baldachin - a rich, ornate cloth. And it was one of the busiest commercial streets during the Shu Kingdom (221-263). Hence, it is known as ��First Street of the Shu Kingdom��. In order to reclaim the street��s prosperity of former days, it was restored with contributions from the Wuhou Memorial Temple and was opened to public in October of 2004. Since then, visitors from all over China and abroad gather in this ancient street to relax, admire the traditional-style buildings, and taste some local snacks.

At one end of the street is an imposing archway with ��Jinli Street�� carved on it. From there the street, paved with green flagstones, winds through Chengdu for a length of 350 meters (382.8 yards). By combining the culture of the Three Kingdoms Period with the folk customs of Sichuan, the buildings on both sides including tea-houses, stores and hotels, are modeled on the architectural style of a traditional old town in western Sichuan Province from the Qing (1644-1911) Dynasty. The wooden steles and the brick-walls exhibit an ancient charm.

Strolling down the narrow street, you will find yourself surrounded by old-world stores selling Shu Embroidery, lacquer products, folk handicrafts, curios, or calligraphies and paintings of celebrities. All of these stores have their unique style but also have one thing in common: no matter how busy the street is, the stores are peaceful and relaxing. You can browse leisurely or purchase some souvenirs for your friends. Most of the special local products can be found here.

Outside the stores, the stalls are busier but equally attractive. You can find folk artisans putting on funny shows such as a shadow puppetry show or a hand puppet show. Some traditional arts such as paper-cut and clay figurines made by the skilled craftsmen are sold here. They are so delicate and life-like that you won��t be able to resist buying some. From these artworks you will get a taste of the true life of the local people and find some reminders of China��s past in the modern city.

In the middle of the street, there is a wooden stage which looks like an ancient pavilion. It is used from time to time for performing classic Sichuan Operas. You can enjoy folk music along with the actor��s beautiful, quick costume and make-up changes. The actors�� perfect performances will wow you.

Despite the traditional atmosphere in Jinli Street, you can also sense something fashionable. There are many cafes and barrooms here - including Starbucks. They blend modern elements into the old town harmoniously. It��s enjoyable to sit on a wooden bench with a cup of delicious coffee.

When you reach the end of the street, you��ll be tempted by the aroma of delicious local snacks. The citizens of Chengdu are born epicures and they are particularly fond of dining. Here there are many restaurants as well as sidewalk booths offering local snacks that will make your mouth water. San Da Pao is a distinctive snack of Sichuan Province and is made from sticky rice, brown sugar, sesame, and beans. And the sweet dried persimmon here is also considered a unique reflection of Chengdu. Some other local snacks include rice glueballs, wontons, and boiled dumplings. Of course, the famous ��Dishes of Three Kingdoms�� is also delicious and waiting for you to enjoy.

Note:
For detailed information on Dynasties, please refer to History of China.

Admission Fee:	CNY 60
Opening Hours:	08:00 to 17:50
Recommended Time for a Visit:	One hour
Bus Route:	14, 26, 53, 57, 213, 214

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