Located in the heart of Chengdu, Du Fu Thatched Cottage (杜甫草堂) is not only a tribute to one of China’s most celebrated poets, Du Fu, but also a serene retreat immersed in nature and history. As one of the top cultural attractions in Chengdu, this historic site provides visitors with a glimpse into the life and times of Du Fu, along with beautiful gardens, traditional architecture, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re a literature lover, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful spot to relax, Du Fu Thatched Cottage has something to offer everyone.
Visitor Information
Address: 37 Qinghua Road, Qingyang District, Chengdu, Sichuan Province
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Ticket Prices: 50 RMB
Transportation:
- Self-Driving: There are parking lots available at both the South and North Gates.
- Bus: Take bus routes 35, 58, or 82 to Du Fu Thatched Cottage Station.
- Subway: Take Line 4 to Caotang North Road Station, Exit B, and walk approximately 900 meters.
Entrance Options
Du Fu Thatched Cottage has four main entrances: North Gate, Main Gate/West Gate, South Gate, and East Gate. Regardless of which gate you choose to enter, you can easily explore all the attractions within the site, as they are conveniently located close to one another. The North Gate offers easy access to various food options, while the South Gate and Main Gate are just a few minutes apart.
Suggested Itinerary
For a comprehensive visit, consider the following route:
- Enter through the South Gate: Start your journey at the Grand Hall (大廨) and the Epic Hall (史诗堂).
- Next, visit the Chaimen (柴门) and the Ministry of Works Shrine (工部祠) along with the Shaoling Cottage Stele (少陵草堂碑亭).
- Continue to the thatched cottage (茅屋故居) and the Tang Dynasty ruins (唐代遗址).
- Explore Huanhua Shrine (浣花祠) and the Flower Path (花径).
- Finish your visit with the scenic Wall of the Cottage (草堂影壁).
- Exit through the South Gate.
What to See at Du Fu Thatched Cottage
Flower Path (花径): This picturesque area is adorned with red walls and green bamboo, making it a popular spot for photos.
Thatched Cottage (茅屋): Although it has been reconstructed, this is a must-see for every visitor.
Wall of the Cottage (草堂影壁): Featuring characters made of blue and white porcelain, this wall is not only stunning but historically significant, as Mao Zedong has visited this site.
Shaoling Stele Pavilion (少陵碑亭): This pavilion houses a stele inscribed by the Prince of Yunli, affirming the cultural significance of Du Fu Thatched Cottage.
Cultural Creative Hall (文创馆): Here, visitors can collect stamps, making for a fun and unique souvenir.
Thatched Cottage Café: A charming café with lanterns that is perfect for taking beautiful photos.
Dayao Hall (大雅堂): Inside, you’ll find sculptures of famous poets, including Xin Qiji, who holds a sword, and Bai Juyi, known for his love of drink.
Grand Hall (大廨): This hall showcases a statue of Du Fu in his later years. The statue is situated on a boat, symbolizing his death while at sea. Visitors often touch Du Fu’s hand for good luck and comfort after learning about his life.
Culinary Delights near Du Fu Thatched Cottage
After your visit, the area near the North Gate is a great spot to grab a bite. Recommended local eateries include Chen Mapo Tofu (陈麻婆豆腐), Xian Zhi Wei Bobo Chicken (鲜知味钵钵鸡), Long Chao Shou (龙抄手), and Shu Daxia Hotpot (蜀大侠火锅). Each offers a unique taste of Sichuan cuisine, ensuring a satisfying meal after your exploration.
Cultural Creative Stamps
For those interested in collecting unique stamps as souvenirs, several locations within Du Fu Thatched Cottage offer this opportunity:
- Tang Style Legacy – Panda Letters: 13 stamps available in the courtyard.
- Cottage Bookstore: 2 stamps at the windowsill.
- Main Creative Shop: 3 stamps available.
- Du Fu’s Gifts: 3 stamps available.
- Outside the Xi Yu Pavilion: 1 stamp.
- At the South Neighbor: 2 stamps at the entrance.
- Huanhua Shrine: 3 stamps available at the creative shop entrance.
All these stamp collection points are located in the courtyard west of Dayao Hall.
Useful Tips
- Left Luggage Service: There is a luggage storage service available near the left side of the North Gate.
- Feeding Koi: Visitors can feed the plump koi fish near the pond within the cottage grounds.
- Summer Precautions: Be aware of mosquitoes during summer; consider bringing insect repellent or wearing long pants.
- Colorful Scenery: The lush greenery throughout the cottage makes it an excellent backdrop for photos, featuring many traditional Chinese-style spots.
- Photo Opportunities: The circular roof of the orchid garden resembles traditional Fujian earth buildings, providing a unique photo opportunity.
- Accessibility: Du Fu Thatched Cottage prioritizes accessibility, offering wheelchairs, nursing rooms, and facilities for individuals with disabilities.
Nearby Attractions
- Huanhua Stream Park: This urban park blends classical gardens with modern art and is located adjacent to Du Fu Thatched Cottage.
- Sichuan Provincial Museum: Renowned as the premier comprehensive museum in Southwest China, it boasts over 35,000 artifacts and is classified as a national first-class museum.
- Jinsha Site Museum: Discover the ancient Shu civilization and its mysterious gold masks from thousands of years ago.
- Qingyang Palace: One of China’s oldest Daoist temples, this site offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese spirituality and architecture.