Empress Hometown · Shu Road Lizhou

Lizhou District, Guangyuan City — the hometown of Empress Wu Zetian, where Shu Road culture and modern city blend harmoniously. This 2-day 1-night itinerary includes a visit to Huangze Temple, a tour of Qianfo Cliff, and a climb up Fenghuang Mountain to experience the integration of thousands of years of culture and the charm of Shu Road customs.

Huangze Temple
Empress Culture
Shu Road Culture
Historical Heritage
Gourmet Capital
Northern Sichuan Flavors
580,000
Population
Huangze Temple Scenery in Lizhou District, Guangyuan
Huangze Temple and Jialing River Scenery in Lizhou District
Huangze Temple, the only temple dedicated to Empress Wu Zetian in China, overlooks the Jialing River and the panoramic view of Guangyuan City

2-Day 1-Night Historical and Cultural Tour of Lizhou District

Empress Culture + Shu Road Relics + Urban Landscapes, Experience the Unique Charm of Lizhou

Trip Duration
2 Days 1 Night
Main Destinations
Huangze Temple, Qianfo Cliff, Fenghuang Mountain Park
Suitable For
History and culture enthusiasts, Buddhist art explorers, family trips with kids
Per Capita Budget
¥300-¥550
01
Historical and Cultural Experience
In-depth Tour of Huangze Temple and Qianfo Cliff
Trip Highlights

Full-day historical and cultural experience

Attraction Arrangement
Huangze Temple
The only temple dedicated to Empress Wu Zetian in China, first built during the Northern Wei Dynasty, with existing buildings restored in the Qing Dynasty. The temple houses a life-size statue of Wu Zetian and is an important site for studying Empress culture.
Qianfo Cliff
The largest grotto group in Sichuan Province, first chiseled during the Northern Wei Dynasty and with a history of nearly 1,500 years. It has more than 400 existing niches and over 7,000 statues, known as the "Museum of Stone Carving Art of All Dynasties".
Guangyuan City Museum
An important venue for displaying Guangyuan's historical and cultural heritage, with a rich collection of cultural relics, especially Shu Road cultural relics and relics from Wu Zetian's period, serving as a window to understand the history and culture of Lizhou.
Practical Information
Travel Tips
  • Learn about Wu Zetian's historical background
  • Prepare for grotto visits
  • Bring a camera to record stone carving art
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes
Accommodation Recommendations
  • Star-rated hotels in Lizhou District
  • Hotels near Huangze Temple
  • Central business hotels
02
Natural and Cultural Experience
Fenghuang Mountain and Urban Leisure
Trip Highlights

Natural landscapes and urban leisure

Attraction Arrangement
Fenghuang Mountain Park
A forest park in the center of Guangyuan City, named for its phoenix-like mountain shape. Climbing to the top offers a panoramic view of Guangyuan and it is a popular place for citizens to relax and exercise.
Nanhe Wetland Park
An urban ecological wetland park with lush green trees and crisscross water systems. It is a great place for bird watching and leisure, showcasing the achievements of Guangyuan's ecological environment construction.
Old Town Pedestrian Street
A traditional commercial street in Guangyuan, retaining the architectural style and commercial atmosphere of old Guangyuan. It is a great place to experience the daily life of Guangyuan citizens and buy local specialties.
Practical Information
Featured Experiences
  • Mountain climbing and viewing experience
  • Wetland ecological observation
  • Shopping in traditional blocks
  • Tasting Lizhou's delicious food
Return Suggestions
  • Buy Guangyuan specialties
  • Taste authentic local food
  • Organize travel souvenirs
  • Reserve return travel time

Must-Try Foods in Lizhou District

Empress Steamed Cold Noodles

A special snack of Guangyuan, said to be invented by Wu Zetian. The cold noodles are smooth and chewy with rich toppings, sour and spicy, and appetizing, making it one of the favorite foods of Guangyuan people.

Jianmen Tofu

A special dish in Guangyuan area, made with high-quality soybeans and Jianmen mountain spring water. The tofu is tender and smooth, with various cooking methods and delicious taste.

Guangyuan Walnut Cake

A traditional famous pastry, filled with high-quality local walnuts, with a crispy outer skin and sweet filling, rich in nutrition, and an ideal gift for relatives and friends.

Sour Cabbage Tofu Pudding Noodles

A traditional snack in Guangyuan, with tender tofu pudding, chewy noodles, appetizing sour cabbage, and delicious soup, it is a popular breakfast choice among locals.

Lizhou District Travel Tips
Best Season
  • March-May: Pleasant spring climate with blooming flowers
  • September-November: Clear autumn sky, suitable for outdoor activities
  • Suitable all year round: Both indoor and outdoor attractions, suitable for travel throughout the year
Travel Suggestions
  • Learn about Wu Zetian's history in advance
  • Arrange visiting time reasonably
  • Experience the charm of Shu Road culture
  • Taste local special food
Practical Information
  • Museums are closed on Mondays
  • Do not touch grottoes for protection
  • Pay attention to scenic spot opening hours
  • Keep personal belongings safe
Transportation Guide
  • High-speed rail from Chengdu to Guangyuan takes 1.5 hours
  • Convenient urban public transportation
  • Taxi starting fare is 5 yuan
  • Attractions are close to each other and can be reached on foot

Explore Tourism in All Districts and Counties of Guangyuan City

Lizhou District
Zhaohua District
Chaotian District
Wangcang County
Qingchuan County
Jiange County
Cangxi County