1. Overview
The Du Fu Thatched Cottage (杜甫草堂) in Chengdu’s Qingyang District is a AAAA-rated cultural landmark and UNESCO-listed heritage site. Established in 760 AD during the Tang Dynasty, it served as the refuge of Du Fu (712–770 AD), China’s revered "Poet Sage," who composed 240+ poems here amid the An Lushan Rebellion. The site spans 300 acres, blending Ming-Qing architecture with serene bamboo gardens and poetic relics.
2. Historical Significance
- Origins: Du Fu built the cottage in 760 AD with local help, describing it in poems like "A Cottage by the Stream". It was restored in 1500 (Ming) and 1811 (Qing).
- Cultural Legacy: Preserves Du Fu’s "poet-historian" spirit, documenting Tang Dynasty turmoil through verses like "Thatched Hut Damaged by Autumn Winds".
- UNESCO Recognition: Celebrated for its intact Tang-Song artifacts, including 3,000+ historical texts and 1,281 national-grade relics.
3. Key Attractions
- Thatched Hut Replica: Rebuilt per Du Fu’s descriptions, with a poetry-inscribed study and rustic courtyard.
- Poetry Hall: Displays Du Fu’s original manuscripts and translations in 15 languages.
- Red Wall & Bamboo Path: A photogenic Qing-era corridor lined with Du Fu’s verses.
- Swan Lake: Home to black swans, echoing Du Fu’s nature-themed poems.
4. Visitor Experience
- Best Time: March–November; mornings for fewer crowds.
- Activities:
- Tea ceremonies in Qing-style pavilions.
- Calligraphy workshops to transcribe Du Fu’s poems.
- Tickets: ¥50 (free for seniors 60+); audio guides in English/Japanese.
5. Practical Information
- Address: No. 37, Qinghua Road, Chengdu.
- Transport: Metro Line 4 to Caotang Road Station.
- Hours: 9:00–18:00 (last entry 17:00).
Nearby Sites: Wuhou Shrine (3 km), Jinli Street.
Awards:
- National Top 10 Cultural Sites (2005).
- CNN’s "Most Beautiful Streets" (Jinli, 2021).
For updates: Official Site or Chengdu Tourism.