Wuhou Memorial Temple in Chengdu

Wuhou Temple is a large complex, with a shrine, the tomb of Liu Bei, founding emperor of the Kingdom of Shu, and memorial halls honoring other ministers.  The shrine was originally built in 223 AD, in commemoration of Zhuge Liang, prime minister of the Shu State during the Three Kingdoms (220-280) and, in the beginning of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), was merged with the Zhaolie Temple in commemoration of Liu Bei.  The temple now covers an area of about 150,000 square meters (37 acres), with numerous halls, gardens, historical relics, and statues of the administrative staff of the Kingdom of Shu.

I confess that my knowledge of the Three Kingdoms period in Chinese History is limited, but I can enjoy the sites of the temple.

 Entrance to the temple

Just inside, beautiful walkways

As I stroll through the buildings in the complex, I come across enclosed statues and rows of administrators and warriors for Lui Bei.

 Statues

Staff

 Typical inscriptions read:

"Jian Wong, also named Xianhe, came from Zhuo Shire (now Zhuoxian county of Hebei Province).  He was an early follower of Lui Bei who often represented his lord on diplomatic missions.  When Lui Bei attacked Chengdu, he convinced Liu Zhang to surrender.  He was characterized as being humorous and casual."

"Fei Wi, also named Wenwei, came from Jiangxiameng (now Loushan of Henan Province).  He was a Shu envoy to Eastern Wu, where he was praised by Wu Lord Sun Quan for his eloquence.  Following Jing Wan's death, he succeeded as the Shu prime minister in charge of both administrative and military affairs.  He was assassinated by a surrendered soldier of the Wei Kingdom.  He was posthumously honored as Marquis of Jing."

 Serious people!

The complex is building after building of beautiful architecture, statues, paths, and gardens.

 Temple buildings and walkways

Paths and gardens

On one side of the temple is garden after interconnected garden of bonzai trees and plants.

 Bonzai gardens

I follow the Bonzai gardens out along the side of the temple buildings, back to the entrance and take leave of this enchanting place.