Wuhou Temple Museum

What are the most recommended things to do in Wuhou Temple Museum?

  • Visit the Wuhou Temple, dedicated to Zhuge Liang, one of the most revered figures in Chinese history, and explore the historical artifacts and memorials inside the temple.
  • Take a stroll through the lush gardens surrounding the temple, which provide a peaceful atmosphere and beautiful photo opportunities.
  • Learn about the Three Kingdoms period, as the museum houses exhibits detailing the era’s military strategies, cultural artifacts, and historical accounts.
  • Participate in a guided tour to better understand the significance of the temple and its connections to Chengdu's rich cultural heritage.

Introducing Wuhou Temple Museum

The Wu Hou Shrine of Chengdu is located at No. 231 Wuhouci Street, Wuhou District, Chengdu. It covers an area of ​​37,000 square meters and has a construction area of ​​9,200 square meters. It is a national AAAA-level tourist attraction.

The Wuhou Temple in Chengdu was built in the late Western Jin Dynasty to commemorate Zhuge Liang. It was originally adjacent to the Zhaolie Temple of Liu Bei, the first emperor of Shu. In the early Ming Dynasty, the Wuhou Temple was merged with the Zhaolie Temple, so the horizontal plaque on the gate read "Han Zhaolie Temple". Later, the Wuhou Temple, which was used to worship Zhuge Liang, was incorporated into the Han Zhaolie Temple. In 1961, the museum was rated as the first batch of national key cultural relics protection units by the State Council. In 1984, the Chengdu Wuhou Temple Museum was established. In 2008, the museum was rated as a national first-class museum.

It is the only temple in China that honors both the emperor and his ministers, the most famous memorial to Zhuge Liang, Liu Bei, and other heroes of the Shu Han Dynasty, and the world's most influential museum of Three Kingdoms relics. It enjoys the reputation of being the "Holy Land of the Three Kingdoms."

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical monsoon humid climate

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The Chengdu Wuhou Temple Museum is currently divided into three sections: the Three Kingdoms Historical Relics Area (Cultural Relics Area), the West Area (Three Kingdoms Cultural Experience Area), and the Jinli Folk Customs Area (Jinli), covering an area of ​​150,000 square meters.

Tickets

60 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

8:00-18:00


Most Popular FAQs for Wuhou Temple Museum

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

The Wuhou Temple Museum is dedicated to the memory of Zhuge Liang, the renowned military strategist, and statesman during the Three Kingdoms period. The temple, originally built in 223 AD, honors Zhuge Liang and other figures of the Shu Kingdom, including Liu Bei and Guan Yu. It plays a significant role in the cultural heritage of Chengdu, representing the history and myths of the Three Kingdoms.

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

Wuhou Temple Museum is located in the heart of Chengdu, Sichuan. It is easily accessible by public transport. The closest metro station is Wuhouci Station (Line 3), which is a short walk to the temple. Taxis and buses also offer convenient access to the site, and it’s possible to walk from the nearby Jinli Ancient Street, which is a popular tourist area.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The Wuhou Temple Museum is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon when the temple is less crowded. Weekdays are also generally quieter than weekends, especially during the tourist high season.

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

The entrance fee for the Wuhou Temple Museum is typically around 60 RMB for adults, with discounts for students and seniors. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and some platforms offer online ticket booking options, especially during peak seasons.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not usually necessary, but it’s recommended during peak tourist seasons or public holidays. Tickets can be booked online 1-2 days ahead of time if you prefer to skip the lines at the ticket counter.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You can fully explore the Wuhou Temple Museum in about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you plan to take a guided tour or linger in the gardens and take photos, it could take up to 3 hours.

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

  • The main hall of the temple, where the statue of Zhuge Liang is enshrined.
  • The Garden, which features a peaceful atmosphere and memorial tablets dedicated to famous generals and statesmen of the Three Kingdoms.
  • The museum section, showcasing a variety of artifacts and relics from the Three Kingdoms period, including ancient weapons, scrolls, and cultural objects.

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

Guided tours are available at Wuhou Temple Museum, and they are offered in both Mandarin and English. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages, including English, for a more independent exploration of the site.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are from the temple’s central courtyard, where the statue of Zhuge Liang stands, and the surrounding gardens, which offer serene landscapes. The temple itself provides excellent backdrops for historical and cultural photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with the main temple area to view the statues and historical inscriptions, then proceed to the museum section to learn about the Three Kingdoms period. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the gardens before exiting through the back gate that leads to Jinli Ancient Street.

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

Night visits and light shows are not typically available at the Wuhou Temple Museum. However, the temple and its gardens are beautifully lit in the evening, offering a peaceful ambiance, though you would need to visit the surrounding area after hours.

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

The Wuhou Temple Museum can get crowded, especially during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning on weekdays or during the off-peak months of spring and fall.

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

The temple complex has clean public toilets, rest areas, and several small shops selling souvenirs and snacks. There are no large restaurants inside, but you can find plenty of food options in the nearby Jinli Ancient Street.

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

The Wuhou Temple Museum is generally accessible for elderly and children, with paved paths and ramps for ease of movement. However, the temple complex’s ancient structure may have some steps and uneven surfaces that could pose challenges for visitors with disabilities.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted, but mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are more commonly used in the area. Credit card payments are less frequently accepted, so it’s recommended to use mobile payment or carry cash for small transactions.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Nearby Jinli Ancient Street offers a variety of restaurants and cafes, including traditional Sichuan hotpot, dim sum, and street food. You’ll find both local eateries and international chains within walking distance.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are vegetarian and vegan food options available in the nearby Jinli Ancient Street, including vegetable stir-fries and tofu-based dishes. Halal food options are more limited, but a few restaurants in Chengdu may offer them.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels are located near Wuhou Temple, including budget hotels and mid-range options. For a more luxurious experience, there are high-end hotels in the vicinity, such as the Ritz-Carlton and Sofitel Chengdu.

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

  • Jinli Ancient Street, famous for its traditional architecture and local snacks.
  • Chengdu Wuhou Shrine, another important historical site dedicated to the Three Kingdoms period.
  • Du Fu Thatched Cottage, a historical poet’s residence, located a short drive away.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, souvenir shops are available near the temple and in the Jinli Ancient Street. Typical souvenirs include Three Kingdoms-themed items such as figurines of Zhuge Liang and other historical figures, as well as traditional Sichuan embroidery and tea.

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

The best transportation options include taxis or public buses from the temple to nearby attractions. Chengdu’s metro system also offers convenient access to other parts of the city. If you are planning to visit other towns in Sichuan, buses or trains from the nearby Chengdu Railway Station are available.