Dufu Thatched Cottage
The Du Fu Thatched Cottage, a serene oasis in bustling Chengdu, honors China’s “Poet Saint” Du Fu, who lived here during the Tang Dynasty (8th century). Once a humble cottage, it evolved into a museum blending poetry, history, and gardens. Designated a National AAAA Tourist Attraction, the site preserves over 1,000 poems by Du Fu and showcases Tang Dynasty architecture, making it a must-visit for literature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Historical Overview
1. Founded in 760 CE, Du Fu sought refuge here during the An Lushan Rebellion, writing 240 poems reflecting wartime struggles.
2. Destroyed and rebuilt over centuries, the current complex dates to the Ming Dynasty (1613) and was expanded in the Qing Dynasty.
3. In 1955, it became a museum dedicated to Du Fu’s life and Chinese classical poetry.
Structural Layout
1. The cottage is divided into four sections:Poetry History Museum: Chronicles Du Fu’s life and Tang Dynasty literature.
2. Thatched Cottage Area: Replicas of Du Fu’s original residence, including a study and garden.
3. Plum Garden: A tranquil landscape with plum trees, pavilions, and stone inscriptions of his poems.
4. Art Gallery: Rotating exhibits of calligraphy, paintings, and artifacts inspired by Du Fu’s work.
Major Attractions
1. Thatched Cottage Hall: A thatched-roof pavilion with wax figures of Du Fu and his family.
2. Poetry Stele Corridor: Over 100 stone tablets engraved with poems by Du Fu and later scholars.
3. Da Ya Pavilion: A viewing tower offering panoramic views of the garden and Huanhua Xi Stream.
4. Tang Dynasty Residence: A reconstructed village house showcasing daily life in the 8th century.
5. Bamboo Grove: A shaded path lined with bamboo, inspired by Du Fu’s poem Bamboo.
Suggested Itineraries
1. Quick Tour (1 hour):
Poetry History Museum → Thatched Cottage Hall → Poetry Stele Corridor → Da Ya Pavilion.
Highlights: Key poems, cottage replica, and river views.
2. Standard Tour (2 hours):
Add: Plum Garden → Tang Dynasty Residence → Bamboo Grove.
Highlights: Gardens, historical reenactments, and nature.
3. In-Depth Tour (3 hours):
Include all sections, plus the Art Gallery and a stop at the on-site teahouse for matcha and poetry readings.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the official WeChat mini-program or Ctrip (up to 7 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets available at the entrance; limited same-day slots.
Prices: ¥50 (adults), ¥25 (students/seniors), free for children under 1.3m.
Transportation
Subway: Line 4 to Caotang North Road Station (Exit B), then a 10-minute walk.
Bus: Routes 19, 35, 58, or 82 to Du Fu Thatched Cottage Station.
Taxi: Direct to the south gate; flag-down fare from downtown ≈ ¥15–20.
Best Time & Tips
Visit Early: Arrive by 8:30 AM to avoid crowds (opens at 8:00 AM).
Quietest Days: Weekdays during autumn (September–November) or spring (March–May).
Pack: Comfy shoes (cobblestone paths), a hat, and water.
Pro Tip: Recite Du Fu’s poems aloud in the Plum Garden for an immersive experience!
FAQ
What rare Du Fu-related artifacts can be found in the exhibition hall?
The hall displays Tang Dynasty pottery (similar to items he described), ancient scrolls of his poems copied by Song Dynasty scholars, and a replica of his writing brush. A highlight is a 17th-century map showing the locations where he wrote his most famous works during his 11-year exile.
What unique perspectives does the English audio guide offer?
The audio guide (available for rent at the entrance) connects Du Fu’s poems to global literary traditions—comparing his social critique to Shakespeare’s, or his nature imagery to Wordsworth’s. It also shares little-known stories, like how his works survived centuries of war.
What events at the annual "Du Fu Poetry Festival" appeal to foreign visitors?
Bilingual poetry readings (Chinese-English/French/Japanese). Workshops: Writing poems in the style of Du Fu, guided by local poets. Traditional music performances: Tang Dynasty-style zither music accompanying recitals.
What’s the most convenient way from Chengdu Shuangliu Airport to Du Fu Thatched Cottage?
Take Metro Line 10 to Taipingyuan Station, transfer to Line 4 to Shahepu Station, then take bus 19 or 35 to "Du Fu Thatched Cottage" stop (total ~1 hour, ¥10–15). Taxis/Ubers take ~40 minutes (¥80–100) and are easier with luggage.
Are there interactive activities to experience Chinese traditional culture?
Calligraphy workshops: Learn to write Du Fu’s poems with a brush (weekends, ¥50/person). Tea ceremonies: Try Sichuan tea in a traditional pavilion, with stories about how Du Fu drank tea while writing. Poetry writing contests: Join monthly events (in English/Chinese) to win a certificate.
