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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 goatee, 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.
Directions: The Wuhou Temple is located on Wuhouci Dajie. It is
a main street and the temple's large red walls are hard to miss.
Take the southbound no. 1 bus from the city center. After you cross
the river, just hop off when you see the unmistakable red walls.
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