Four Must-Visit Three Kingdom Sites in Chengdu

“The world under heaven, after a long period of division, tends to unite; after a long period of union, tends to divide. This has been so since antiquity.”

                            - Luo Guan Zhong, Romance of the Three Kingdoms


The Three Kingdoms period at the end of China's Eastern Han Dynasty was an era filled with bright and iconic talents but also one of the darkest times in Chinese history. A decade of turbulence and chaos gave birth to some of the greatest heroes and strategists, whose deeds and events are documented in historical texts and immortalized in The Romance of the Three Kingdoms, one of the Four Great Chinese Classics. Almost every Chinese, whether in China or overseas, knows a thing or two about the Three Kingdoms and its legendary figures. The period is also widely popular in many East Asian countries, with Japan producing countless anime and video game adaptations based on Three Kingdoms history.

In Romance of the Three Kingdoms, the Shu Han faction is portrayed as the primary protagonist. Historically, Liu Bei, the founder of Shu Han, established its capital in Chengdu. As a result, Chengdu is home to many historical sites tied to the Three Kingdoms era. In this article, I will share the four must-visit spots I discovered during my time in Chengdu.

1. Wuhou Shrine

Wuhou Shrine is arguably the most influential site in any Three Kingdoms historical and cultural tour. Conveniently located in the heart of Chengdu, Wuhou Memorial Temple was built in 223 AD and uniquely integrates an emperor's tomb with his prime minister's shrine. It is a National 4A Scenic Spot, known as the most significant museum of the Three Kingdoms period and a key cultural relic site. The shrine features classic Chinese-style architecture, a beautifully maintained garden, and a rich cultural atmosphere. Every year, millions of tourists from China and abroad visit to explore the fascinating Three Kingdoms history.

Historically, in AD 223, Liu Bei's bier was sent to Chengdu after his death and was buried in what is now Hui Tomb. In accordance with Han tradition, a temple was built to commemorate him, known today as Hanzhaolie Temple within Wuhou Temple. Later, in AD 234, Zhuge Liang fell ill and passed away while on a military campaign. To honor his contributions, a temple was built next to Liu Bei's mausoleum, symbolizing the enlightened ruler-minister relationship. As Zhuge Liang held the title of "Wu Xiang Hou," the temple was named Wuhou Temple. Over time, the tomb, temple, and previous memorial sites merged into what is now Wuhou Temple.



The temple was rebuilt during the Qing Dynasty by Emperor Kangxi, who admired Zhuge Liang's wisdom and sought a prime minister of his caliber. Today, visitors can explore various attractions such as Liu Bei's Temple, Wuhou Temple, Sanyi Temple, the mausoleum, and the cultural exhibition hall. Just outside the shrine, you can see the Chu Shi Biao, Zhuge Liang's famous memorial to the emperor, engraved in stone tablets.

Currently, Wuhou Shrine requires online reservations for entry tickets. However, if you visit during the off-season, you may be able to purchase a ticket on-site as I did.









2. Temple of Zhao Zilong at Dayi

Dayi County, about 35km from Chengdu city center, is home to the temple and final resting place of Zhao Zilong (Zhao Yun), one of Liu Bei's Five Tiger Generals. You can travel there by high-speed rail or bus, though I recommend taking the high-speed rail for convenience.

Zhao Zilong is renowned for his courage and loyalty. Historical chronicles describe him as “身长八尺，姿颜雄伟”, highlighting his tall stature, handsome appearance, exceptional martial skills, and unwavering sense of duty. He is best remembered for his legendary rescue of Liu Bei's son and his decisive victory at the Battle of Hanzhong.

According to historical records, after Zhao Zilong passed away, he was buried near Yinping Mountain, which is now Dayi County. The Zilong Temple at Dayi houses his grave, making it not just a memorial but also his final resting place. Unfortunately, when I visited last December, the shrine was under renovation and inaccessible. However, I was able to see his grave from a nearby rooftop. As someone who has admired Zhao Zilong since childhood, it was a surreal moment knowing that my hero was resting just meters away from me. I hope to return in the future to pay my respects properly.


3. Luo Feng Po (Fallen Phoenix Hill)

Luo Feng Po is the site where Pang Tong, Liu Bei’s deputy strategist, met his tragic end. Pang Tong was an equally brilliant counterpart to Zhuge Liang, known as the "Young Phoenix." Unfortunately, during a battle, he was ambushed and killed at this very location. His body was later buried near the ambush site, which is now home to a memorial shrine dedicated to him.

The site also features a nearly 1,800-year-old tree, said to have been planted by Zhang Fei, Liu Bei’s sworn brother. Many Chengdu locals are unaware of Luo Feng Po’s historical significance, despite its close proximity to the city. To visit, head to Baima Pass (Baima Guan), approximately 76km from Chengdu. You can travel by train or bus, but since the site is vast, be prepared for a lot of walking. Fortunately, I had a friend in Chengdu who drove me there and gave me a tour. While the site is somewhat out of the way, it is well worth the visit for any die-hard Three Kingdoms fan. Standing at the exact spot where Pang Tong died and seeing his grave was a truly surreal experience.








4. Jinli Ancient Street

Jinli Ancient Street is the perfect spot to visit alongside Wuhou Shrine, as it is located just outside its entrance. Dating back to the Qin Dynasty, Jinli was a hub for the production of baldachin (ornate cloth) and later became one of the busiest commercial streets during the Shu Kingdom. Because of its historical significance, it is often called "First Street of the Shu Kingdom."

Restored and reopened to the public in 2004, Jinli features architecture inspired by the Eastern Han Dynasty. Today, it serves as a vibrant cultural district where visitors can experience traditional-style buildings, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy authentic Chengdu snacks. The lively atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Chengdu's Three Kingdoms history.













Conclusion

Chengdu is a city rich in Three Kingdoms history, offering an immersive cultural tour for fans of the era. The four spots mentioned above not only provide insight into historical events but also allow visitors to step into the past and experience the legacy of legendary figures firsthand. Whether you're a casual admirer or a dedicated Three Kingdoms enthusiast, Chengdu is the perfect destination for a journey through one of China's most fascinating historical periods.



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