Du Fu Thatched Cottage

What are the most recommended things to do in Du Fu Thatched Cottage?

At Du Fu Thatched Cottage, you can:

  • Explore the peaceful garden and scenic areas where Du Fu, one of China's greatest poets, lived during the Tang Dynasty.
  • Visit the museum within the cottage to see historical artifacts related to Du Fu's life and works.
  • Walk through the tranquil gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere that inspired many of Du Fu's poems.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the nearby riverbank, which also features beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Attend cultural performances or poetry readings that often take place in the park area surrounding the cottage.

Introducing Du Fu Thatched Cottage

The Chengdu Du Fu Thatched Cottage Museum, located at 37 Qinghua Road, Qingyang District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province, is the former residence of the great Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu during his stay in Chengdu. Du Fu lived here for nearly four years and composed over 240 poems. The late Tang poet Wei Zhuang discovered the ruins of the cottage and rebuilt it, preserving it. The cottage was subsequently renovated and expanded throughout the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.

The museum houses over 30,000 volumes of various materials and over 2,000 cultural relics. These include exquisitely engraved, photocopied, and handwritten copies of Du Fu's poems from the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties, as well as various modern lead-printed editions. It also houses translations in 15 languages ​​and over 120 Chinese-style printed editions published in Korea and Japan. This makes it the richest and best-preserved collection of Du Fu's life's work.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Dayatang

Daya Hall was originally the main hall of Caotang Temple. The plaque above its door, inscribed with the characters "Daya Hall," is a collection of calligraphy by Yan Zhenqing, a renowned Tang Dynasty calligrapher. Inside, Daya Hall houses China's largest exhibition of glazed, inlaid, and lacquer murals, as well as 12 sculptures of renowned poets from past dynasties, vividly showcasing the life of Du Fu and the development of classical Chinese poetry.


Grand Hall

"Dasi" means "office," referring to the place where local officials worked in ancient times. Du Fu's career was difficult, and he was never given a high position. When the Thatched Cottage was rebuilt in the 16th year of the Jiaqing reign of the Qing Dynasty, it was considered that Du Fu, having served as an official, needed a place to work, so the name "Dasi" was given to it.


Shaoling Stele Pavilion

The Shaoling Stele Pavilion is one of the most representative structures in Du Fu's Thatched Cottage. A thatched-roof pavilion, it houses a stone stele inscribed with the four characters "Shaoling Thatched Cottage." The calligraphy is powerful and elegant, attributed to Prince Guo Yunli. This landmark is one of the most iconic sites and is often used as a symbol of the thatched cottage.


It is recommended to play for 2 hours

Tickets

60 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

(May~October): 8:00~18:30

(November to April): 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM


Most Popular FAQs for Du Fu Thatched Cottage

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Du Fu Thatched Cottage was the home of Du Fu, a famous poet from the Tang Dynasty. It is located in Chengdu, Sichuan, and holds significant cultural and literary importance in Chinese history. The cottage and its surroundings are a symbol of Du Fu's life, during which he wrote numerous influential poems, often expressing sorrow and concerns for the people. The site is a tribute to his enduring legacy in Chinese literature.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Du Fu Thatched Cottage is located in the western part of Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China. You can get there via taxi or public bus from the city center. Metro lines do not directly reach the site, but taxis are widely available. If you're in Chengdu, it's about a 20-minute drive from downtown.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Du Fu Thatched Cottage is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best times to visit are during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November), as the weather is mild and the gardens are at their most beautiful. Avoid weekends and national holidays if you want to experience the site without the crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 60 CNY for adults, and discounted tickets are available for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or in advance through official travel platforms or online ticketing sites.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons, holidays, and weekends. You can book tickets a few days ahead to avoid waiting in long lines.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need about 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore Du Fu Thatched Cottage, including the museum and surrounding gardens. If you enjoy poetry and historical sites, you may want to spend a little extra time to immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights at Du Fu Thatched Cottage include:

  • The main cottage, which displays Du Fu's life and works.
  • The tranquil gardens and ponds, which reflect the poetic nature of the place.
  • The museum section, which houses poems, artifacts, and historical records.
  • The surrounding riverbanks and scenic spots that offer great photo opportunities.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some guides may speak limited English. Audio guides may also be available, primarily in Chinese, but you may be able to request an English version if needed. It's recommended to check in advance if you prefer an English-speaking guide.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots include:

  • The front of the cottage against the backdrop of the lush greenery and river.
  • Views of the garden and pond, which provide a peaceful setting for photos.
  • Close-up shots of the architectural features of the cottage and museum displays.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the entrance, explore the Du Fu Thatched Cottage, and then wander through the beautiful gardens and surrounding nature. Visit the museum for historical insights and poetry exhibits. Lastly, take a walk along the nearby river for a relaxing end to your visit.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no night visits or light shows at Du Fu Thatched Cottage. The attraction is primarily a daytime experience, with the peaceful atmosphere best enjoyed in daylight hours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Du Fu Thatched Cottage can get crowded, especially during weekends and national holidays. The least crowded times are early mornings on weekdays, particularly during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like public toilets, rest areas, and water fountains are available. There is also a small gift shop selling souvenirs and books about Du Fu's poetry. For food, visitors can find small snack shops around the entrance, but for a more substantial meal, it’s better to head into Chengdu city center.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The site is mostly accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths and gentle slopes in the garden areas. However, some sections, like the museum and smaller garden spots, may involve steps. It may not be fully accessible for wheelchair users due to the terrain, but assistance can be arranged if necessary.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payment options such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller shops, so it's best to carry cash or use mobile payment methods.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no large restaurants within the attraction itself, but nearby, in the Chengdu city center, you can find many restaurants offering Sichuan cuisine, including hotpot and other local specialties.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

In Chengdu city center, you will find a wide variety of vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants, as well as halal food options due to the city's diverse food culture. However, such options near Du Fu Thatched Cottage may be limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a number of hotels near Du Fu Thatched Cottage, ranging from budget guesthouses to higher-end accommodations. Some popular options include the InterContinental Chengdu, Holiday Inn, and local boutique hotels in the area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include:

  • Wuhou Shrine, dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a famous strategist of the Three Kingdoms period.
  • Jinli Ancient Street, a historic street famous for its traditional architecture, food, and souvenirs.
  • Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, a must-see for animal lovers.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling poetry-related items, traditional Chinese art, and local handicrafts such as silk, tea sets, and paper fans. You can also find books about Du Fu and his poetry.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Du Fu Thatched Cottage, you can take a taxi or public bus to other parts of Chengdu, including Wuhou Shrine, Jinli Ancient Street, or the Chengdu Panda Base. The Chengdu metro system is also a convenient option to explore the city.