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The Wuhou Temple in Mian County, Shaanxi Province, is a temple dedicated to Zhuge Liang, an outstanding politician, military strategist, and Prime Minister of Shu during the Three Kingdoms period in Chinese history. It is located 3 kilometers west of Mian County, Shaanxi Province, along National Highway 108. Construction began in the sixth year of Jingyao (263 AD) during the Shu Han Dynasty. It is the earliest of the many Wuhou Temples in China and the only one built by imperial decree (by Liu Chan, the last emperor of Shu), earning it the reputation of "the best Wuhou Temple in the world."
The Wuhou Shrine in Mian County, Shaanxi Province, occupies over 80 mu (approximately 166 acres) of land. Its architecture is arranged in a north-south layout, with halls arranged in rows of five, and a central axis running through seven courtyards. Most of the three courtyards are connected in parallel. The shrine boasts over 30 ancient buildings and 150 rooms, including the mountain gate, music tower, memorial archway, qin tower, halberd gate, worship hall, main hall, Chongsheng Shrine, river-viewing tower, and east and west side halls. This magnificent structure is one of the largest ancient architectural complexes in southern Shaanxi.
The Wuhou Shrine in Mian County, Shaanxi Province, boasts a rich history, having survived through more than ten dynasties, including the Wei, Jin, and Northern and Southern Dynasties. According to inscriptions and historical records, over a thousand years, the shrine has weathered numerous vicissitudes, suffered several collapses, and undergone repairs throughout the dynasties. As a result, most of the remaining buildings retain the style of the Ming and Qing dynasties.
The subtropical monsoon climate has distinct monsoon characteristics, with four distinct seasons compared to tropical regions. Generally speaking, spring and autumn are slightly shorter, while winter and summer are slightly longer. Winters are mild, summers are mild, and rain and heat occur in the same season. Summer and autumn are the best seasons for travel.
In front of the temple is a memorial archway, 10 meters high, with an octagonal shape. The archway is 6 meters wide in the middle and 3 meters wide on each side. The four pillars are on the ground and covered with gray tiles. On one side of the archway are written eleven large characters in official script: "Temple of the Loyal and Martial Marquis Zhuge Wuxiang, Prime Minister of the Han Dynasty" and on the other side are written five large characters: "The Best in the World". Visitors who come here are all in awe.
Since the Wei and Jin dynasties, the Wuhou Shrine has been home to numerous famous figures. Li Shangyin of the Tang Dynasty, Lu You of the Song Dynasty, Xue Xuan of the Ming Dynasty, and Wang Shizhen of the Qing Dynasty all visited to compose poems and inscriptions. Currently, over 60 steles, over 30 plaques, and over 20 couplets remain. Hanging throughout the shrine are plaques and couplets. Plaques inscribed with inscriptions include: "High Mountains and Flowing Water," "Pure Confucian Spirit," "Admired by Generations for Integrity," "A Great Man of the Han Dynasty," "Great and Unparalleled," "A Prodigy Under Heaven," "Like a Dragon," "Mountains Are High and Rivers Are Long," and "Compared to Yi and Lü." Among them, "Loyalty Reaches the Sky" was bestowed by the Emperor in 1803.
Inside the main hall, there is a lifelike clay statue of Zhuge Liang, wearing a feather fan and a silk scarf, with a solemn gaze. Flanked by standing statues of Guan Xing and Zhang Bao, a plaque with the words "Loyalty Penetrates the Sky" inscribed by Emperor Jiaqing of the Qing Dynasty in 1803 hangs in front of the statue.
The shrine boasts 18 ancient cypresses (originally 64), each about one meter in diameter. Their height, luxuriance, and lush greenery add to the shrine's beauty. East of the Drum Tower stands a rare woody plant called the "Herba Lily," approximately 10 meters tall and 40 centimeters in diameter. Its blossoms in early spring resemble a lotus, its fragrance spreading for miles. This unique sight is considered a symbol of Zhuge Liang's unpretentious and honest character.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
Peak season (March-November): 60 yuan/person
Off-season (December to February) 40 yuan/person
Peak season (March 1st - November 30th): 08:00--18:00
Off-season (December 1st - February 28th): 08:30--17:30
Wuhou Temple in Mian County is dedicated to Zhuge Liang, a legendary military strategist and statesman during the Three Kingdoms period. The temple honors his wisdom and contributions to Chinese history, especially his loyalty to the Shu Kingdom. The site holds historical significance for its connection to the Three Kingdoms and as a symbol of loyalty and wisdom in Chinese culture.
Wuhou Temple is located in Mian County, Shaanxi Province. You can reach the site by taxi or private car from Hanzhong City, which is approximately 30 km away. Public transport options like buses may be available, but taxis offer a more convenient option.
The temple is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more serene atmosphere. Spring and autumn are ideal seasons for a visit due to pleasant weather.
The entrance fee is typically around 30-50 RMB. Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance. It is recommended to carry cash, although some places may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay.
No need to book tickets in advance for individual visits. However, if you are visiting during peak seasons or with a large group, it's advisable to check availability or make a reservation in advance through local tour agencies.
1 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore Wuhou Temple, including the temple grounds, statues, and inscriptions. If you wish to learn in-depth about the history and take your time at each site, you may spend up to 3 hours.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin. Audio guides may also be available in Chinese, and some sites might offer English-language guides or pamphlets. It's advisable to check at the entrance or inquire locally.
The best photography spots include the main hall with Zhuge Liang’s statue, the ancient inscriptions, and the temple garden, where the lush greenery contrasts beautifully with the historical architecture.
Start with the main hall to see the statues and read the inscriptions. Then, proceed to the temple garden, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk. Take time to explore other parts of the temple, including the memorial tablets and historical exhibits.
There are no special light shows or night visits available at Wuhou Temple. The site is primarily a daytime attraction. However, the temple’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a calming visit even during daylight hours.
The temple can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, it's best to visit on weekdays, particularly early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
There are basic facilities, including toilets and water stations. Some local vendors near the temple may offer snacks and souvenirs, but there are no major food outlets inside the temple grounds.
The temple grounds are relatively accessible, with flat walkways leading through the main areas. However, some sections may have steps or uneven paths that could be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors.
Cash is widely accepted, and mobile payment methods such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used. Credit cards may not be accepted at smaller shops or vendors within the temple.
Vegetarian options are available in some local restaurants. Halal food is less common in Mian County, but there may be some options in the larger Hanzhong area.
Souvenir shops are available near the temple, selling traditional Shaanxi handicrafts, including calligraphy scrolls, local ceramics, and statues of historical figures like Zhuge Liang.
