Wuhou Shrine



Near Chengdu Old South Gate, beside Wuhou Avenue, there is a complex of ancient buildings
surrounded by red walls. Wuhou might be translated as "minister or war". That was the title given to
ZhugeLiang, a famous military strategist of the tree Kingdoms period (AD220-280) immortalized in
one of the classics of Chinese literature, the tale of the Three Kingdoms.

The Wuhou Temple actually features three main sections. The Temple of the Han Dynasty Emperor
Zhao Lie, the Wuhou Shrine dedicated to the 50 heroes of the Shu Kingdom, and the Temple of the
Three Righteous Men. From the main gate you cross through a courtyard, and then reach another
courtyard featuring the 50 heroes of the Shu Kingdom. The 50 heroes are displayed behind glass
around the four sides of the courtyard. The seated figures have long hair and traditionally long

beards or goatees, and are adorned with colorful robes. Two main figures regarded as the Shu Kingdom's most prominent heroes are featured
across the courtyard with larger statues. Liu Bei (161-223 AD), formerly known as Xuande from Hebei province, was the general credited with
establishing the kingdom. His strategist and later the kingdom's Prime Minister, Zhu Ge Liang (181-234 AD), is next to him. Mention either of
these names to a Chengdu local and they will be very pleased and even impressed that a foreigner possesses such knowledge.

The Wuhou Temple park is actually quite large. Take an entire afternoon or morning to wander around the park and get the most out of the Y60
admission price. The park's vegetation is extremely well-kept and simply gorgeous to look at. The park maintains Bonsai, Peach, Pine, and
Bamboo trees just to name a few. There is a turtle pond, a goldfish pond, and of course a few teahouses. Bring a book, some snacks, or some
playing cards and bask in the fresh scents of the seemingly endless gardens. 

In the people' heart, the intelligence and prestige of Zhuge Liang are deemed far higher than that
of many vassals, and even of some emperors. Therefore, there are several Wuhou Memorial
Temples in China, if you want to visit one, make it this one, for its fame and prestige.