Location & How to Get There

Dujiangyan City God Temple sits in a prime spot at the south foot of Yulei Mountain, right next to the famous Dujiangyan Irrigation System scenic area in Dujiangyan City, Chengdu, Sichuan Province. It’s super easy to reach:

  • By bus: Take tourist shuttle buses from Chengdu (around 1.5 hours) or local buses from Dujiangyan市区 (downtown).
  • By car: Drive along G317 National Highway; there’s free parking near the temple.
  • Walking: If you’re already exploring Yulei Mountain Scenic Area, it’s just a 10-minute walk from the mountain’s south entrance.

The temple is tucked between Yulei Mountain Plaza (north side) and the ancient irrigation system, making it a perfect stop when visiting Dujiangyan’s main attractions.

Natural Scenery: Mountains & Water Views

The temple’s setting is straight out of a painting! Behind it rises Yulei Mountain, covered in lush forests and ancient trails. On clear days, you can hike up for stunning views of the Min River valley and the irrigation system below. In front, the plaza often hosts traditional dance performances, especially during festivals.

A stone’s throw away is the Dujiangyan Irrigation Site, a UNESCO heritage site. The temple’s location lets you mix culture and nature in one trip—walk from the temple to the canals, or vice versa.

Cultural Highlights: History & Legends

This isn’t just any temple. Dujiangyan City God Temple dates back to 1782 (Qianlong era, Qing Dynasty), built by a monk named Zhang Laixi with donations. It’s been rebuilt twice after fires and now features two main sections: the Ten Halls and the City God Main Hall.

The Stories Inside:

  • Ten Halls: These rooms hold statues based on local flood-taming legends. Look for:
  • “White Dragon Pool”: A tale of a dragon causing floods.
  • “Erlang Fights the Dragon”: Erlang (a Chinese deity) battles a river monster.
  • “Wangpo Catches the Dragon”: A clever old woman traps a dragon with a net.
  • City God Main Hall: Here, the city god (a local guardian spirit) is worshipped. Before the hall stands the Horse King Hall, flanked by the Goddess Hall and Guanyin Hall.

Even if you’re not into myths, the colorful sculptures and detailed carvings are worth a slow stroll.

Facilities for Visitors

The temple area is visitor-friendly:

  • Free entry: No tickets needed! Just walk in.
  • Rest areas: Shaded benches near the plaza let you chill after exploring.
  • Food & Souvenirs: Nearby stalls sell Sichuan snacks (try dan dan noodles) and temple-themed keepsakes.
  • Toilets: Clean public restrooms are available near the entrance.

Exploration Tips: What to Expect

  • Best time: Visit on a sunny day for photos, but mornings are less crowded.
  • Combine with other sights: Pair this with a visit to Dujiangyan Dam or Qingcheng Mountain (a 30-minute drive).
  • Photography spots: The temple’s red gates contrast beautifully with Yulei Mountain’s greenery. At sunset, the plaza lights up for a magical vibe.
  • Interactive fun: Local guides sometimes dress in traditional costumes and explain the legends—ask if they’re available!

Why Visit Dujiangyan City God Temple?

This spot blends history, nature, and local flavor. Whether you’re into myths, ancient architecture, or just soaking in a pretty mountain view, it’s a hidden gem. Plus, it’s quieter than Dujiangyan’s busier sites, so you can escape the crowds.

Pro tip: End your visit with a walk along the Min River promenade—it’s peaceful and lined with food stalls. Enjoy your trip to Dujiangyan City God Temple!