Location & How to Get There

Bagua Pavilion sits inside Qingyang Palace, a historic Taoist temple in Chengdu’s Qingyang District. The address is No. 9 Yihuan Xi Er Duan, which sounds tricky, but don’t worry—it’s easy to find! If you’re using the metro, get off at Lumashi Station (Line 4) and walk for about 15 minutes. Buses like 5, 7, or 27A also drop you near the entrance. A taxi ride from downtown costs around ¥20. Just remember, Qingyang Palace (and Bagua Pavilion) closes at 5 PM, so plan your visit early!

Natural Scenery: A Peaceful Escape

Inside Qingyang Palace, Bagua Pavilion stands in a garden filled with ancient trees and blooming flowers. The pavilion’s round shape and wooden carvings make it look like something from a fairy tale. Locals love sitting on the benches here to enjoy the shade or take photos with the pavilion as a backdrop. In spring, cherry blossoms around the temple add a pink glow, while autumn brings golden leaves—perfect for a quiet stroll.

Cultural Charm: History & Design

Bagua Pavilion isn’t just a random pretty building. Its name comes from the Bagua symbol (the eight trigrams in Taoist philosophy), which represents balance and nature. The pavilion was built in the Qing Dynasty (long ago!) and has been restored to keep its old-world charm. Look up to see dragon statues on the roof and colorful frescoes inside. Even if you don’t know much about Taoism, the peaceful vibe and intricate details will impress you.

Must-See Features

  • The Pavilion’s Shape: It’s a rare octagonal structure, meant to mirror the Bagua symbol.
  • Carved Doors: The wooden doors have hand-painted scenes of mythical creatures.
  • Luckiness Ritual: Locals believe walking around the pavilion three times brings good fortune—try it!

Practical Tips: What to Expect

  • Tickets: Qingyang Palace costs ¥10 to enter (super cheap!), and Bagua Pavilion is included.
  • Guided Tours: For ¥50, you can join a group tour with an English-speaking guide. They’ll explain the Taoist meaning behind the pavilion’s design.
  • Souvenirs: Near the exit, buy Taoist amulets or mini Bagua Pavilion models—great gifts!

Dining & Rest Nearby

After exploring, head to Qingyang Gong Jie (the street outside) for snacks. Try dan dan noodles or Chengdu-style chuan chuan (hot pot sticks). For coffee or cake, Antique Coffee down the road has a cozy vibe. If you’re hungry later, Chengdu’s famous hot pot restaurants (like Haidilao) are a 10-minute drive away.

My Visit Experience: A Highlight!

I visited Bagua Pavilion on a sunny morning, and it felt like stepping into another era. The temple was quiet (even on a weekend!), and a local artist was painting the pavilion’s reflection in a pond—so Chengdu! I spent an hour wandering, taking photos, and listening to monks chanting in the distance. Pro tip: Come early to avoid crowds and catch the morning light on the pavilion’s roof.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Go

Bagua Pavilion is perfect if you want to see authentic Chengdu culture without the tourist chaos. It’s less crowded than places like Jinli Street but equally beautiful. Whether you’re into history, architecture, or just relaxing in a serene spot, this hidden gem deserves a spot on your Chengdu itinerary. Trust me, your Instagram followers will love the photos!