Zhang Fei Temple (张飞庙), founded during the late Shu Han period, boasts a history of over 1,700 years and has undergone various renovations and expansions throughout the ages. Originally located at the foot of Feifeng Mountain, the temple houses a significant collection of precious calligraphy, paintings, and over 200 rare cultural relics, earning it the title of “a scenic wonder of Bashu and a land of literary treasures.” It stands as a key attraction along the Golden Tourism Route of the Yangtze River Three Gorges.
The temple complex primarily consists of seven main structures: the Main Hall, Side Hall, Brotherhood Pavilion, Cloud-Watching Pavilion, Wind-Assisting Pavilion, Cuckoo Pavilion, and Moon-Obtaining Pavilion. The first five buildings were constructed to honor Zhang Fei, while the latter two commemorate the great Tang dynasty poet Du Fu, who resided here. This unique temple is a rare combination of martial and literary honors.
Legend has it that after Zhang Fei was assassinated by his subordinates Fan Jiang and Zhang Da in Langzhong, the two betrayed him by taking his head to Eastern Wu. While passing through Yunyang, they learned of the peace agreement between Wu and Shu, leading them to discard Zhang Fei’s head into the river. A fisherman later recovered it and buried it at the foot of Feifeng Mountain, giving rise to the saying, “Zhang Fei’s head is in Yunyang, while his body is in Langzhong.” Revered for his bravery and righteousness, Zhang Fei is honored by the people, and on the 28th day of the eighth lunar month, large crowds gather for traditional worship ceremonies in his memory, showcasing the temple’s cultural significance and influence.
Travel Information about Zhang Fei Temple
Admission and Opening Hours
Ticket Price: 32 RMB
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Access to Zhang Fei Temple
Location: Long’an Village, Panshi Town, Yunyang County, Chongqing
Transportation:
- Take a bus from Chongqing Chaotianmen Bus Station or Chongqing North Station to Yunyang County.
- From Yunyang County, board a ferry at Changxizi Dock to reach Zhang Fei Temple.
Attraction Ratings
- Cultural Significance: ★★★★★
- Unique Features: ★★★★
- Historical Value: ★★★★
- Leisure Activities: ★★★
- Scenic Beauty: ★★★★
- Romantic Atmosphere: ★★
- Adventure Level: ★
Highlights of Zhang Fei Temple
Brotherhood Tower (结义楼)
Upon entering the main gate of Zhang Fei Temple and ascending to the second floor, visitors arrive at the Brotherhood Tower. This area features a stunning backdrop of peach blossoms, behind the lifelike statues of Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei, symbolizing their oath of brotherhood in the Peach Garden. The statue of Zhang Fei, holding a wine cup and gazing upwards, presents a striking image of valor and sacrifice, evoking a strong emotional response.
Inside the second-floor exhibition hall of the Brotherhood Tower, visitors can marvel at a dazzling array of wooden carvings, calligraphy, and lengthy scrolls, with over a hundred pieces of preserved wooden engravings on display. These artifacts represent the tireless efforts of cultural workers to rescue and preserve invaluable heritage, leaving a profound impression on all who witness them.
Main Hall (正殿)
Ascending the stone steps from the Brotherhood Tower leads to the Main Hall of Zhang Fei Temple. At the center of this hall stands a grand bronze statue of Zhang Fei, embodying his formidable strength and valor. The original clay statue was unfortunately destroyed, but it has since been successfully restored. Above the statue hangs a plaque inscribed with the words “力扶汉鼎” (“Support the Han Dynasty”), signifying Zhang Fei’s importance as a guardian figure. Devotees regard General Zhang as a deity, often tying red cloth to the iron railings in front of the statue as a prayer for safety and protection.
Flanking the bronze statue is a striking group of sculptures that vividly portray legendary tales of Zhang Fei’s life, including scenes such as “Angrily Whipping the Postal Inspector,” “Righteous Release of Yan Yan,” “Repelling Enemies at Changban,” and “Tragic Fate in Langzhong.” These sculptures artistically capture Zhang Fei’s clear sense of loyalty and justice, his indomitable spirit in defending his country, and his heroic aura as he commands an army with ease. The artistry reflects the complexity of his character, showcasing both his fierce temperament and his intricate personality.
Wind Assistance Pavilion (助风阁)
Exiting the Main Hall and heading west leads to the Wind Assistance Pavilion, the oldest surviving structure in Zhang Fei Temple. This pavilion, built during the Ming Dynasty, features a double-eaved hexagonal design typical of the Song architectural style. According to legend, it is said to be the burial site of Zhang Fei’s head.
Inside the temple’s stele chamber, visitors can find replicas of stone inscriptions known as the “Eight Meng Cliff Inscriptions,” which are said to commemorate Zhang Fei’s valor. One inscription reads: “General Fei of the Han led thousands of elite soldiers to defeat the bandit leader Zhang He at Ba Meng, marking the site.” Another stone tablet, attributed to Zhang Fei’s divine manifestation, bears the inscription: “One iron spear supports the state, three feet of bronze sword shakes the universe. The gentleman does not know my surname, I am the black-faced old general with unwavering loyalty.” The bold and passionate calligraphy reflects Zhang Fei’s fierce character.
On the stone wall beneath the pavilion is a significant hydrological inscription noting the water level of 150.35 meters from the Qing Dynasty’s Tongzhi period, which marks the extent of a devastating flood in 1870 that nearly destroyed the entire Zhang Fei Temple. The current temple was rebuilt after this disaster, and a stone tablet within the temple details the reconstruction process and the list of donors who contributed to the restoration efforts.
Legends of Zhang Fei Temple
According to local legends, Zhang Fei has manifested his divine presence in Yunyang several times, offering protection to the people from wars and unexpected calamities. The residents on both banks of the Yangtze River revere Zhang Fei as the deity who ensures safe passage for boats traveling through the waters. In honor of this, the Wind Assistance Pavilion was built, inscribed with the words “Assist Me with a Gentle Breeze.”
Today, many people in Yunyang partake in rituals to honor Zhang Fei. When they purchase new cars or boats, it is common to visit the temple to set off firecrackers, burn incense, and make offerings of oil. Additionally, young people who leave for work elsewhere often visit the temple to pray and make vows, promising to return with offerings when they earn money. This enduring devotion reflects the deep cultural significance of Zhang Fei in the lives of the local community.
Wangyun Pavilion (望云轩)
Wangyun Pavilion is a charming and elegant enclosed courtyard, characterized by its serene atmosphere. Within the pavilion, lush green bamboo and carefully arranged bonsai create a harmonious setting. According to local legend, this pavilion is where the spirit of Zhang Fei gazes toward the east, longing for his brother, Guan Yu (also named Yun Chang), to return to the land of Shu for a reunion.
From the north room of the pavilion, visitors can open the window to enjoy a panoramic view of the new city of Yunyang, offering a beautiful contrast between the historical significance of the site and the modern landscape beyond.
Deyue Pavilion (得月亭)
Deyue Pavilion stands right outside the main gate of Zhang Fei Temple. This pavilion features a grass-covered roof supported by stone pillars, with a large bell hanging in the center, renowned for its moniker “Lingzhong Qiangu” (灵钟千古), which means “Eternal Bell of the Ages.” It is said to be the site of the ancient river tower celebrated in Du Fu’s poem “Jiangqiao.”
During the reconstruction of Zhang Fei Temple, the long-hidden inscription of “Lingzhong Qiangu” resurfaced, showcasing its historical significance. To properly preserve this valuable relic, the newly relocated Zhang Fei Temple has replicated the inscription “Jiangshang Fengqing” (江上风清) in its original position. Below the Deyue Pavilion, the “Lingzhong Qiangu” inscription was placed on the cliff wall, allowing these two intertwined historical elements to coexist harmoniously as “Twin Treasures in the World.”
Culinary Delights of Yunyang
Yunyang Bowl Cake (云阳碗儿糕): This traditional local snack is made from rice, brown sugar, and sesame, resulting in a fluffy, soft texture with a delightful balance of sweetness and slight sourness. The cakes come in snowy white and golden yellow colors. You can find them in various street stalls and restaurants throughout Yunyang County.
Cured Pork Belly (腊五花肉): Known for being rich without being greasy, this dish is enhanced by the delicate texture of local potatoes. The potatoes absorb the rich flavors of the cured meat, while the cured meat improves the otherwise plain taste of the potatoes, creating a perfect match.
Camphor Tea Duck (樟茶鸭子):This dish features high-quality duck marinated with a blend of sugar, wine, green onions, cinnamon, tea leaves, and star anise. It is then smoked with camphor wood shavings and tea leaves, giving it a unique name. The duck has crispy skin, tender meat, a vibrant color, and a distinctive aroma from the camphor tea.
Dong’s Dumplings (董氏包面): These are traditional dumplings, available in two flavors: clear soup and spicy red oil. The clear soup version is garnished with green onions and has a sesame aroma, while the spicy version includes stir-fried chili in the soup for a bolder flavor. With thin skin, smooth filling, and rich broth, these dumplings remain delicious even after some time.
Spicy Salted Shrimp (云阳椒盐虾): Made from fresh, live shrimp that do not need to be shelled, this dish involves deep-frying the shrimp before stir-frying them with pepper and salt. The result is a plate of crispy, tender shrimp with a golden hue, known for its high nutritional value.