When people think of Sichuan, the first things that often come to mind are hotpot, pandas, and Jiuzhaigou. But did you know that this fertile land is not only blessed with stunning natural scenery but also steeped in rich human history? From legendary tales of the Three Kingdoms to the ancient Shu civilization, from sacred Buddhist mountains to the homes of revered poets, Sichuan holds an essential place in Chinese civilization.
If you’re a lover of history and culture, this curated guide to Sichuan’s cultural and historical attractions is a must-read!
1.Wuhou Shrine – A Must-Visit for Three Kingdoms Enthusiasts
Location: Next to Jinli Ancient Street, Wuhou District, Chengdu
Why Visit: The only shrine in China dedicated to both a monarch and his minister—Liu Bei and Zhuge Liang.
First built during the Tang Dynasty, Wuhou Shrine represents the heart of Three Kingdoms culture in Sichuan. Behind its red walls and green tiles lie countless stories from the Shu Han era. The complex includes statues of Zhuge Liang, Liu Bei Hall, the Temple of the Three Righteous, and the adjacent Jinli Ancient Street. It’s a paradise for history buffs and a window into the rich culture of Bashu.
Wuhou Shrine
Recommended Experiences:
Take a guided tour to fully understand the legacy of the Shu Han heroes
Wander through Jinli Ancient Street, savoring traditional Sichuan snacks in a Ming-Qing-style setting
2.Du Fu Thatched Cottage – A Glimpse into the Poet Sage’s Chengdu Years
Location: Along Huanhua Creek, Qingyang District, Chengdu
Why Visit: The former residence of the great Tang Dynasty poet Du Fu, now a cultural landmark.
Du Fu Thatched Cottage was where the poet lived during his stay in Chengdu, where he penned many timeless poems such as Spring Night Happy Rain and My Thatched Roof is Torn by Autumn Wind. Today, the site has become a significant literary memorial in China, featuring serene gardens and classic architecture. It is one of the most culturally rich spots in Chengdu.
Recommended Experiences:
Stroll through the poetic gardens and read Du Fu’s enduring masterpieces
Visit the Hall of Chinese Poets to explore the evolution of classical poetry
Du Fu Thatched Cottage
3.Leshan Giant Buddha – A Marvel of Buddhism and Engineering
Location: Downtown Leshan City
Why Visit: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest stone Buddha statue in China.
Carved during the Tang Dynasty and completed over 90 years, the 71-meter-tall Leshan Giant Buddha sits at the confluence of the Min, Qingyi, and Dadu Rivers. Its sheer size and serenity have impressed pilgrims and tourists alike for centuries. Surrounding attractions include Lingyun Temple, the Nine-Bend Plank Road, and the Oriental Buddha Park.
Recommended Experiences:
Climb Mount Lingyun to view the full expanse of the Buddha
Walk the cliffside plank path to gaze up at the towering figure
Take a riverboat cruise for the most iconic photo angle
Leshan Giant Buddha
4.Mount Emei – A Sacred Buddhist Sanctuary Amidst Natural Beauty
Location: Emeishan City, Leshan
Why Visit: One of the four sacred Buddhist mountains in China, seamlessly blending spirituality and nature.
Known as the “Samantabhadra Bodhisattva’s Daoist Ground,” Mount Emei houses over 30 temples scattered across its peaks and valleys. The summit, Golden Summit, offers breathtaking views of the sunrise, sea of clouds, and even the Buddhist halo. Whether or not you’re religious, Mount Emei offers a spiritual escape and a deeper connection with nature.
Recommended Experiences:
Watch the sunrise and sea of clouds from Golden Summit
Explore ancient temples like Baoguo Temple and Fuhu Temple
Relax in Emei hot springs and interact with wild macaques
Mount Emei
5.Jinsha Site Museum – The Story of Ancient Chengdu
Location: Qingyang District, Chengdu
Why Visit: Another groundbreaking archaeological site after Sanxingdui, revealing 3,000 years of Chengdu’s history.
The Jinsha site, dating back to the Shang and Zhou dynasties, was the political and cultural center of ancient Chengdu. Its most famous artifact, the “Golden Sunbird,” has become a cultural symbol of the city. The museum features modern facilities and immersive exhibits, perfect for families and history enthusiasts alike.
Recommended Experiences:
Admire the original Golden Sunbird artifact (now China’s cultural heritage emblem)
Enjoy the interactive and multimedia experiences to time-travel through ancient Shu civilization
Jinsha Golden Mask
Jinsha Site Museum
Sichuan’s natural beauty is undeniable, but it’s the depth of its history and culture that truly enriches the travel experience. Every brick, poem, and statue tells a story from centuries past. If you’re tired of superficial sightseeing and seek a more meaningful journey, step into these historical and cultural sites—and let time speak to your soul.
When you come to Sichuan, you might as well arrange a cultural and historical journey for yourself, from the heroes of the Three Kingdoms to the great poets of the Tang Dynasty, from the mysterious ancient Shu to the thousand-year-old Buddhist country, to find the true soul imprint of the Bashu civilization.
