Location & Transportation

Yong'An Palace, nestled in the Fuzhou Museum compound at 83 Shoujing East Road, Fengjie County, is a hidden gem for history lovers. While it’s not on the main tourist trail, getting there is part of the adventure! From Fengjie County City, a short taxi or bus ride (about 10 minutes) drops you near the museum. If you’re traveling along the Yangtze River, it’s perfectly paired with a visit to nearby Baidi Town (White Emperor City), making it a great stop for river cruisers.

Natural Scenery

Though Yong'An Palace is a historical site, its surroundings offer a sneak peek into China’s iconic Three Gorges scenery. The museum sits by the river, where you can catch glimpses of mist-covered mountains and the steady flow of the Yangtze. Unlike crowded spots like Wulong or Zhangjiajie, here you’ll find calm waters and quiet trails—perfect for a breather between exploring Fengjie’s cultural treasures.

Cultural Heritage

This is where Yong'An Palace truly shines. Imagine standing where Emperor Liu Bei of the Shu Han dynasty once stood—the same spot where he famously entrusted his son to Zhuge Liang, a moment immortalized in Chinese legend. The palace wasn’t just a royal residence; it was built after Liu Bei’s defeat in 222 AD (when he avenged Guan Yu’s death but lost to a fiery ambush by Lu Xun). Later, the original site was submerged by the Three Gorges Dam’s reservoir, so experts meticulously rebuilt it here, brick by numbered brick. It’s like stepping into a living museum!

Architecture & Exhibits

The reconstructed Yong'An Palace blends Han Dynasty style with modern preservation. You’ll see traditional wooden beams, upturned eaves, and courtyards that feel straight out of an ancient tale. Inside, exhibits tell the story of Liu Bei’s final years, using artifacts, sculptures, and interactive displays. Don’t miss the model of the old palace—it shows how the site looked before the flood, giving context to the massive effort to save it.

Practical Tips

  • Opening hours: Typically 9 AM–5 PM (check locally, as hours may vary).
  • Tickets: Entrance is included in the Fuzhou Museum ticket (around ¥20–¥50), making it a budget-friendly stop.
  • Guides: English-speaking guides are rare, but volunteer students sometimes help visitors. Download a translation app or read the museum’s English signage for details.
  • Souvenirs: The museum gift shop sells cute pandas, local tea, and mini replicas of Yong'An Palace—great for last-minute gifts!

Visitor Experience

Visiting Yong'An Palace feels like uncovering a lesser-known chapter of Chinese history. Unlike the bustling crowds at Ciqikou or the Great Wall, here you’ll have time to wander, snap photos of intricate carvings, and imagine Liu Bei’s dramatic final days. The mix of outdoor river views and indoor exhibits keeps things fresh, while the air-conditioned museum offers relief from summer heat. Pro tip: Pair it with a stroll along the nearby Poem City (a Fengjie landmark) to fully soak in the area’s poetic vibe—after all, this region inspired ancient Chinese writers like Li Bai!

Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or casual traveler, Yong'An Palace offers a unique peek into China’s past. Just don’t forget your camera—this hidden gem deserves to be shared!