Location & How to Get There

Wuhou Shrine-Sanyi Temple sits inside the Chengdu Wuhou Shrine Museum at 225 Wuhou Shrine Street, Wuhou District, Chengdu. It’s super easy to reach by metro—jump off at Taipingxie Station (Line 3 or 5) and walk for about 10 minutes. Buses 1, 10, or 57 will also drop you close by. If you’re already exploring the Wuhou Shrine area, this spot is just a short stroll away!

History and Cultural Significance

This place is all about brotherhood! Wuhou Shrine-Sanyi Temple was built to honor Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei, the trio from the Three Kingdoms period who pledged loyalty in the famous “Peach Garden Oath.” The temple started as a smaller shrine called Sanyi Temple back in the early Qing Dynasty (around 1660s) by a local military leader. Later, it moved to its current home inside the Wuhou Shrine complex due to city development. Now, it’s a peaceful courtyard that feels like stepping back to when these heroes were starting their epic journey.

Architecture and Highlights

The temple is a classic Chinese siheyuan (four-sided courtyard), with a simple but elegant layout. You’ll walk through a Bai Dian (worship hall) and a main hall, flanked by covered corridors. What makes it special? The statues of Liu, Guan, and Zhang! Unlike other depictions, these figures look young, energetic, and dressed in plain cloth clothes. They reflect the trio’s early days after their oath—before they became famous warlords. It’s like seeing history frozen in a moment of hope and grit.

Natural Surroundings

Don’t expect mountains or lakes here, but the temple’s greenery adds a calm vibe. Potted plants and ancient cypresses frame the courtyard, making it a shaded escape from busy Chengdu. Nearby, the Wuhou Shrine’s gardens blend seamlessly with Sanyi Temple, so you can enjoy a leisurely walk after visiting the statues.

Visitor Facilities

  • Tickets: Entrance is included in the Wuhou Shrine’s ticket (¥50 during peak seasons, ¥30 off-season).
  • Hours: Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM (last entry at 5:30 PM).
  • Guides: Rent an audio guide for ¥20 to hear stories about the Three Kingdoms.
  • Eat & Shop: A small café inside the museum serves tea and snacks. For souvenirs, check the gift shop for Three Kingdoms-themed crafts.

Exploration Tips

Give yourself 30-45 minutes to see Sanyi Temple. Pair it with a visit to the main Wuhou Shrine—they’re connected! Take photos of the statues; the natural light in the courtyard makes for great shots. If you’re into history, join a free talk (check the schedule at the entrance) to learn how Liu, Guan, and Zhang rose from peasants to legends.

Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid crowds. The temple feels especially peaceful then, and you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the details.

Wuhou Shrine-Sanyi Temple isn’t just a monument—it’s a story of loyalty, friendship, and the scrappy beginnings of three men who changed Chinese history. Even if you’re not a history buff, the statues and courtyard offer a quiet, inspiring glimpse into China’s epic past.