Nanjiao Park was founded in 1943 on the site of the former cemetery of Liu Xiang — a General of the Kuomintang Army and Governor of Sichuan Province. After the establishment of the People`s Republic of China, the park was opened to the public as a public space. Today, it is part of the Wuhou Temple museum complex but retains its unique atmosphere and free access for visitors.
The Nanjiao park covers an area of about 130 acres and has a strict layout with a central axis more than 400 meters long. This well-planned architectural structure recalls its original purpose as a memorial complex.
Atmosphere and Layout
Unlike the neighboring Wuhou Temple, which is always crowded with tourists, Nanjiao Park remains a quiet and peaceful place. Here you can take a stroll in complete solitude, listening to the birds singing and the rustle of leaves.
The main feature of the Nanjiao park is its landscape design. Shaded alleys with tall ancient trees create natural coolness even in the summer heat. A picturesque pond with curved bridges, pavilions, gazebos, and artificial rock formations — all of this forms a beautiful classical Chinese garden.
The park`s aesthetic is enhanced by red walls and graceful arches combined with dark gray tiles. This is a true haven for photography: here you can find both the famous red walls and architectural ensembles that are in no way inferior in beauty to the neighboring Wuhou Temple. Unlike the tourist-filled temple, at Nanjiao Park you can peacefully and without interruption capture this traditional Chinese charm. However, if you want to see red walls with giant bamboo trees behind them, you will need to visit the neighboring Wuhou Temple.
Architectural Ensemble
The Nanjiao Park was established in 1941 as a memorial complex in honor of General Liu Xiang, and was designed by the renowned architect Yang Tingbao. He chose the style of the northern imperial tombs of the Qing Dynasty, making this park unique in southwestern China — it is the only monument of its kind in the region. All buildings are arranged along a central axis more than 400 meters long, which gives the space a sense of grandeur and strict order.
Main Structures on the Central Axis
Walking along the main alley from south to north, you can see the following structures:
• Three-arched gate (paifang) — a massive carved arch that serves as the ceremonial entrance to the memorial area.
• Jingzhong Gate — the second gate, beyond which the main sacred territory begins.
• Pavilion with a stone stele (stele pavilion) — a traditional structure housing a commemorative stele with an inscribed text.
• Two-story pavilion and polygonal pavilion — elegant, lightweight structures located symmetrically on both sides of the axis.
• Jianxin Hall (now the Wuhou Art Museum) — the main building of the complex with a high double-eaved roof. Today, art exhibitions are held here.
• Tomb of Liu Xiang — the final element of the memorial axis, restored in 1985.
What to Do in the Nanjiao Park
Nanjiao Park is an ideal place for a leisurely stroll and a photo session. At the park entrance are the Jingzhong Gate and an arch with red vaults — architectural features with excellent spatial perspective for photography.
In the center of the park lies a picturesque pond with a stone arched bridge. Willows, old boats, and the bridge create the feeling of an ancient Chinese painting. By the water, you can watch the koi carp and feed them.
A special charm of the park is watching the local residents. Here you can see elderly people playing mahjong, singing opera, or practicing tai chi. This is the authentic life of old Chengdu, which is rarely seen in tourist areas.
Nanjiao Park is especially beautiful in autumn, when the leaves change color, creating golden and crimson landscapes. It is also popular among fans of hanfu and vintage attire due to its authentic architecture.
Practical Information
Nanjiao Park is located at 235 Wuhouci Street, Wuhou District. It is open daily from 09:00 to 18:00. Entrance to the park is free, and no reservation is required.
To get to the park, you can take the metro: Gaoshengqiao Station (Line 3), Exit C, then walk to the park. You can also take buses No. 26, 53, 14, or 213 to the "Wuhou Temple" stop. The recommended time for a visit is 1–2 hours for a leisurely stroll.
Nanjiao Park is an ideal complement to a visit to Wuhou Temple and the ancient Jinli Street, as they are all located nearby. You can plan a route like this: start with a walk through Nanjiao Park (quiet and uncrowded), then visit Wuhou Temple, and end the day with dinner and a stroll along Jinli Street in the evening.
