
The Mulan Shrine, formerly known as the "Mulan Temple", also known as the "Shrine of General Xiaolie" and commonly known as the "Shrine of Xiaoer", is located in Yingguo Town, Yucheng County, Shangqiu City, Henan Province, the hometown of Hua Mulan (now Mulan Town). It is a shrine to commemorate Hua Mulan, 2.5 kilometers away from Mulan Station on the Beijing-Kowloon Railway. It is one of the first phase of key tourist attractions listed by the Henan Provincial People's Government and a key cultural relic protection unit at the provincial level in Henan.
The Mulan Shrine in Yucheng County dates back to the Tang Dynasty and was renovated during the Jin, Yuan, and Qing dynasties. It once covered over 10,000 square meters and featured a main gate, main hall, offering hall, rear building, and auxiliary rooms. While the shrine was destroyed by war, two steles survive, detailing Mulan's life, achievements, and the history of the shrine's restoration. Opposite the shrine lies the Hua Mulan Cemetery, which houses the tombs of Hua Mulan and her parents.
For over a thousand years, on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month, Mulan's birthday, local officials led elders and citizens in offering sacrifices to commemorate her and educate future generations. This tradition later evolved into a three-day temple fair around the eighth day of the fourth lunar month. People from over a hundred miles across the borders of Henan, Shandong, Jiangsu, and Anhui provinces flocked to the fair to burn incense and conduct business.
The temperate monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
The Mulan Temple Scenic Area contains six attractions: the Hua Mulan Temple, Hua Mulan's Former Residence, Hua Mulan Garden, Hua Mulan Cultural Square, Hua Mulan Martial Arts School, and Hua Mulan Cemetery (including Hua Mulan's Tomb and the Tomb of Hua Mulan's Parents); it is suitable for sightseeing.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
10 yuan/person
08:00-18:00
Mulan Temple commemorates the legendary heroine Hua Mulan, celebrated for her bravery and filial piety. It is an important cultural site in Henan, preserving folklore, traditional architecture, and historical artifacts connected to Mulan’s story.
Located in Shangqiu, Henan Province. Accessible via local buses, taxis, or ride-hailing services. Walking is recommended within the temple grounds.
Typically open from 08:00 to 17:00. Visiting in the morning is ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Entrance fees are generally around CNY 20–30. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through local tourism apps and websites.
Advance booking is optional on regular days. During weekends, public holidays, or festivals, booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended.
Approximately 1.5–2 hours to explore the main halls, courtyards, and gardens comfortably.
Guided tours are usually available in Chinese. English tours may be arranged upon request. Audio guides are limited.
Start at the main entrance → visit the central temple halls → explore gardens and courtyards → end at exhibition areas.
Special events or light displays may occur during festivals, but regular night visits are generally not available.
Weekdays and mornings are least crowded. Holidays and weekends attract more visitors.
Facilities include public restrooms, benches for resting, small snack kiosks, and souvenir shops near the entrance.
Most areas are accessible for elderly and children. Some parts may have steps; wheelchair access is partial and may require assistance.
Both cash and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted for entrance fees and purchases.
Several local restaurants and cafes near the temple offer traditional Henan dishes and refreshments.
Vegetarian options are generally available. Halal food may be found at nearby specialized eateries.
There are multiple hotels and guesthouses within Shangqiu city, offering convenient access to Mulan Temple.
Souvenirs include postcards, figurines, traditional crafts, and local snacks.
Taxi, local buses, and ride-hailing services are convenient for traveling to nearby attractions or back to the city center.