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Explore the Temple of Han Zhaolie to learn about the cultural and historical significance of the temple. Admire the intricate architectural details and sculptures that depict historical events. It's a peaceful place for reflection and photography, especially in the surrounding serene environment.
The Han Zhaolie Temple is the only temple in China dedicated to both the emperor and his ministers. It commemorates Zhuge Liang, Prime Minister of the Shu Kingdom. Incorporated into the Han Zhaolie Temple in the early Ming Dynasty, it is also the country's most influential museum of Three Kingdoms relics. It consists of the Huiling Mausoleum, the Han Zhaolie Temple, and the Wuhou Shrine.
Because Zhuge Liang's influence surpasses Liu Bei's in the hearts of the people, the temple is commonly known as the "Wu Hou Temple." The temple is divided into the main gate, the second gate, the Liu Bei Hall, the front hall, the Zhuge Liang Hall, and the Three Righteousness Temple, arranged along a central axis running from south to north. The temple houses 50 statues of Liu Bei, Zhuge Liang, and other heroes of the Shu Han Dynasty. For fans of the Three Kingdoms, this place will surely satisfy your thirst for history.
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Huiling Mausoleum
To the west of Zhuge Liang Hall lies the tomb of Liu Bei, known historically as the "Hui Mausoleum." Zhuge Liang personally selected the site for his burial. Also buried within the mausoleum are Liu Bei's two wives, Gan and Wu. In front of Liu Bei's tomb stands a stone tablet erected during the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, inscribed with the inscription "Mausoleum of Emperor Zhaolie of Han." The mausoleum complex comprises a screen wall, a fenced gate, a sacred path, and a sleeping hall. A smaller sacred path in front of the mausoleum dates back to the Qing Dynasty.
Wuhou Temple
The Wuhou Temple is a temple commemorating Zhuge Liang, the prime minister of Shu Han during the Three Kingdoms period in China. It was named after Zhuge Liang was granted the title of Wuxiang Hou during his lifetime.
Red Wall Alley
This refers to the famous two red walls between Huiling (Liu Bei's Tomb) and Wuhou Shrine. Beyond these walls lies a dense bamboo forest, perpetually lush and verdant. The winding path, with sunlight filtering through the bamboo grove, casts dappled shadows that sway against the red walls, hence the name "Red Wall Bamboo Shadows." Walking through these walls is a truly relaxing and captivating experience, making it a popular spot for photo opportunities.
Recommended play time: 3 hours
60 yuan/person
Summer (May 1st - October 31st): 08:00-20:00
Winter (November 1st - April 30th): 08:00-18:30
The Temple of Han Zhaolie is dedicated to Han Zhaolie, a historical figure from the Han dynasty. It holds great cultural and spiritual significance, representing the reverence for ancient Chinese leaders and their contributions. The temple also reflects the traditional architectural styles of the period.
The Temple of Han Zhaolie is located in Chengdu, Sichuan. You can get there by taxi or private car. Public buses are available, but routes may vary, so it's advisable to check beforehand. It's also possible to walk from nearby landmarks depending on your location.
The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Weekdays are generally less crowded compared to weekends and holidays.
The entrance fee to the Temple of Han Zhaolie is approximately 30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. Online booking options are typically not available, but tickets are easily available at the entrance.
Booking tickets in advance is not required as the temple is not usually crowded. However, during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it is advisable to book tickets a day or two in advance to avoid waiting in line.
You can fully explore the temple in about 1 to 2 hours. This includes time for sightseeing, photography, and learning about the temple’s history. If you wish to meditate or spend more time in reflection, you may want to allocate a bit more time.
The main highlight is the central hall housing the statue of Han Zhaolie. Also, don't miss the intricate carvings on the walls, the peaceful gardens surrounding the temple, and the peaceful courtyards that provide a reflective atmosphere.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and there may be some guides who speak basic English. Audio guides are not typically provided, but a local guide can enrich your experience with detailed historical insights.
There are several great photography spots within the temple grounds, including the central hall, the intricate carvings, and the peaceful courtyards. The temple’s surroundings, with its tranquil gardens and serene architecture, also offer beautiful photo opportunities.
The recommended route is to first visit the main hall where the statue of Han Zhaolie is housed. Then explore the surrounding courtyards and gardens. Take your time to admire the carvings and inscriptions throughout the temple. If time permits, visit the nearby historical spots in the area.
Night visits are not available, as the temple is closed after 5:00 PM. However, the temple is peaceful and quiet during the day, providing a calm atmosphere for reflection and sightseeing. Special tours may be available during cultural festivals or events.
The temple is generally not very crowded, but it can get busy during weekends or public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are early in the morning, especially on weekdays.
The temple has basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are no large restaurants or food shops inside, but you can find small snacks and refreshments at nearby kiosks or outside the temple grounds.
The temple is relatively accessible for elderly and children, though some areas might require walking up stairs or over uneven ground. It is advisable to check in advance for wheelchair accessibility as the terrain may pose challenges in some areas.
Cash is widely accepted at the temple, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also commonly accepted. Credit cards are not commonly used, so it’s a good idea to have cash or use mobile payment options.
There are no major restaurants inside the temple, but there are small eateries and cafes nearby offering traditional Sichuan dishes and snacks. For more dining options, you can head to Chengdu city center, which is a short drive away.
Vegetarian options are widely available in nearby restaurants, especially in Chengdu. Vegan and halal options may be more limited, but there are some establishments in Chengdu catering to these dietary preferences.
There are no hotels directly within the temple grounds, but accommodations ranging from budget hotels to higher-end options are available in nearby areas of Chengdu. Popular areas to stay include Wuhou District or near Chengdu’s city center.
Nearby attractions include the Wuhou Shrine, Sichuan Museum, and Jinli Ancient Street. These can easily be combined in a day trip along with the Temple of Han Zhaolie. Chengdu itself offers many cultural and historical landmarks to explore.
There are small souvenir shops near the temple where you can buy traditional Chinese crafts, incense, and prayer beads. The typical souvenirs include local handicrafts, calligraphy scrolls, and religious items related to the temple’s history.
To continue your trip, you can take a taxi or use public transportation to get to other landmarks in Chengdu, such as the Sichuan Museum or Wuhou Shrine. Chengdu's metro and bus system provide easy access to many attractions from the temple.
