Location & How to Get There

Da Ya Tang is tucked inside the Du Fu Cao Tang Museum (a must-visit spot itself!) at 36 Caotang Road, Qingyang District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province. To reach it, take Metro Line 4 and hop off at Caotang Road Station—it’s just a 10-minute walk from there. If you’re coming by taxi, ask the driver for “Du Fu Cao Tang” (everyone knows this famous spot!). Once inside the museum, follow the signs to Da Ya Tang—you can’t miss it!

Natural Vibes

Even though Da Ya Tang is all about culture, its setting is pretty chill. The museum grounds are like a traditional Chinese garden with bamboo groves, ancient trees, and quiet ponds. It’s the perfect backdrop to soak in the vibe of old Chengdu. Walking toward Da Ya Tang, you’ll pass courtyards with stone paths and wooden pavilions—great for a quick Instagram photo before diving into the history!

Cultural Treasures Inside Da Ya Tang

This hall is a hidden gem! Originally the main hall of an old temple, it’s now packed with art and stories. The first thing you’ll notice is the huge wooden plaque above the door. The words “Da Ya Tang” (which mean “Hall of Refined Elegance”) are written by Yan Zhenqing, a super-famous calligrapher from the Tang Dynasty. These three characters alone feel like a time capsule!

Inside, the walls are covered in a giant, colorful mural made of enamel and lacquer. It’s the largest of its kind in China and shows Du Fu’s life story and how Chinese poetry evolved over centuries. Even if you don’t get every detail, the vibrant colors and scenes are eye-catching.

Then there are the 12 statues of famous poets lining the hall. They include big names like Li Bai, Bai Juyi, and Su Shi. Each statue comes with a plaque in English, so you can learn fun facts as you go. It’s like a who’s who of ancient Chinese poetry!

Practical Tips

  • Entrance: Da Ya Tang is part of the Du Fu Cao Tang Museum, so you’ll need to buy a ticket for the museum (around 50 RMB).
  • Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM).
  • Guides: Rent an audio guide or join a free tour (they have English options!).
  • Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair-friendly, and Da Ya Tang is on flat ground.
  • Souvenirs: After your visit, grab a poem-themed bookmark or a mini replica of Du Fu’s statue at the gift shop.

What to Expect During Your Visit

Walking into Da Ya Tang feels like stepping into a living history book. The mural is so detailed that you could spend hours studying it—but even a quick glance gives you a sense of Du Fu’s journey. The poet statues add a dramatic touch; posing for a pic with Li Bai (or your favorite poet) is a must!

If you love art and stories, bring a notebook. The exhibits inspire creativity, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it easy to reflect. For families, kids might enjoy the statues (they’re life-sized!), while history buffs will geek out over the mural’s connections to Tang Dynasty poetry.

Nearby Highlights

Since Da Ya Tang is inside the Du Fu Cao Tang Museum, don’t miss the rest of the complex! Explore Du Fu’s old cottage, wander through lotus ponds, and check out the poetry gallery. If you’re hungry afterward, head to Jinli Street (a 15-minute walk) for snacks, teahouses, and more photo ops.

Final Thoughts

Da Ya Tang isn’t just a museum—it’s a love letter to Chinese poetry and art. Even if you’re not a poet, the blend of history, visuals, and serene gardens makes it a can’t-miss stop in Chengdu. Wear comfy shoes, bring curiosity, and get ready to be amazed by how much story fits into one hall!