Tianfu Square is not just the main square of Chengdu, but its historical, geographical, and cultural epicenter. It is located on the site of the old imperial city, directly in front of the former gates leading to the ruler`s residence. Today, this place is considered "Kilometer Zero" — the geographical center of Chengdu, from which all major roads and metro lines radiate.
The design of the square is steeped in deep symbolism. It represents a giant bagua — an octagonal symbol from Chinese philosophy, surrounded by four mythical creatures guarding the cardinal directions. At the four corners of the square are sculptures of the four heavenly guardians: the Eastern Dragon (symbol of spring and growth), the Western Tiger (symbol of courage and autumn), the Southern Phoenix Bird (symbol of prosperity and summer), and the Northern Tortoise-Snake (symbol of longevity and winter).
Next to each of them are corresponding fountains and symbolic pillars. In the center of the square is the symbol of Chengdu — the "Golden Sun Bird," discovered during excavations at the Jinsha archaeological site.
How Tianfu Square Is Arranged Today
Today, Tianfu Square is a spacious open space where life is in full swing. Families stroll here, young people roller-skate and skateboard, elderly residents dance, and tourists take photos. In the evenings, the musical fountains are turned on — a popular spectacle among both locals and visitors to the city.
The square is surrounded by the most important cultural and administrative buildings, forming the cultural heart of the city.
Chengdu Museum
On the western side of Tianfu Square is the Chengdu Museum — one of the city`s most significant cultural buildings. The building was designed by Sutherland Hussey Architects, who won an international competition for its creation.
The museum is a monumental structure with a total area of over 70,000 square meters, approximately 180 meters long and 70 meters wide. The building resembles a geological rock formation, alluding to the mountains surrounding the Chengdu Basin. The façade is made of copper panels with patina, creating a "golden" effect, and perforated copper mesh that allows a golden glow to pass through at night, reminiscent of the tradition of Sichuan shadow theater. The architects called this technique "gold wrapping jade."
Inside the museum are exhibitions dedicated to the natural history, history, and folklore of Sichuan, as well as Chinese shadow theater — here is housed the largest collection of shadow puppets in China. Two pedestrian routes pass through the building, connecting the square with the surrounding areas.
Sichuan Science and Technology Museum
On the northern side of Tianfu Square is the Sichuan Science and Technology Museum. This building has a rich history: it was built in 1969 as the Sichuan Provincial Exhibition Hall, and in 2006 it was converted into a science and technology museum.
The total area of the museum is 60,000 square meters, with exhibition space covering 25,000 square meters. On five floors there are 20 permanent exhibition zones with more than 600 exhibits.
On the first floor, you can see geological models of the picturesque Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong areas, a model of the Ertan Hydropower Station, as well as a pavilion dedicated to the Dujiangyan Irrigation System — an ancient engineering marvel that still functions today. There is also a hall of aviation and astronautics, where the principles of rocket and spacecraft flight are explained, as well as a 4D cinema.
The second floor is dedicated to mechanics, energy, electricity and magnetism, the virtual world, the information society, and robotics.
Buildings Around Tianfu Square
In addition to the two museums, Tianfu Square is surrounded by other important buildings. On the northwest corner is the Sichuan Provincial Library, and behind it — the Sichuan Art Gallery. Together they form the main cultural cluster of Chengdu.
To the south of Tianfu Square runs Renmin Road (People`s Road), the southern part of which is known for its premium boutiques — here you will find stores such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany, and others.
Underground Shopping Center at Tianfu Square
Beneath Tianfu Square lies an entire underground city: here Line 1 and Line 2 of the metro intersect — the main transport arteries of Chengdu. In addition, there is an underground shopping center with stores, cafes, and snack bars beneath the square. This is a convenient place to rest during a walk, grab a bite to eat, or take shelter from bad weather.
Practical Information
• How to get there: Tianfu Square metro station (Lines 1 and 2).
• Entrance to the square: free.
• Chengdu Museum: free, passport required.
• Science Museum: free, advance booking required.
• Fountains: best viewed in the evening.
Tianfu Square is convenient as a starting point for getting to know the city due to its transport accessibility and the concentration of attractions in one place. Admission to the museums is free (the Science Museum requires advance booking). The recommended time for a visit is 2–3 hours, including viewing the exhibitions and taking a walk around the surrounding area.
