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三苏祠2
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Meishan: The Hometown of Su Dongpo, Bamboo Weaving, Pickled Vegetables, and the Leisurely Life on Table Mountain

Meishan's administrative history dates back to the Han Dynasty as Meizhou, reaching its cultural peak during the Song Dynasty. The three generations of the Su family—Su Xun, Su Shi, and Su Zhe—were all included in the "Eight Great Prose Masters of the Tang and Song Dynasties." The Three Sū Temple was originally their ancestral residence, later expanded into a memorial site. Located adjacent to Chengdu, Meishan is the heartland of Sichuan’s "Su Dongpo Culture" and "Healthy Living Lifestyle": the Three Sū Temple embodies family values and classical literature; Wawu Mountain and Qili Ping offer forest air baths; Pengzu Mountain promotes longevity practices; Qingcheng emphasizes bamboo weaving and international bamboo art.

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Main Attractions in Meishan:

Culture and Song Dynasty Charm

Three Sū Temple

This is the most complete surviving classical garden temple dedicated to the Three Sū in China, and also the original residence of Su Xun, Su Shi, and Su Zhe. Stepping inside, ancient trees and tall bamboos, lotus ponds and stone inscriptions, dining halls and corridors unfold one after another. Huang Tingjian’s hand-inscribed stele of "The Drunken翁 Pavilion" quietly stands beneath the corridor. This place is not merely a scenic spot—it feels like a Song Dynasty study you can walk into. Join a guided tour, view the exhibition "China Has the Three Sū" on family values, sip a bowl of covered tea in the garden, copy a line of Su Shi’s poetry. These experiences bring deeper resonance than simply taking photos. Spend half a day here, for Meishan’s cultural roots grow from this very courtyard.

Yuanjing Tower and Dongpo Urban Wetlands

Yuanjing Tower serves as Meishan’s iconic landmark—a 13-story high-rise standing by the lake. From the top, you can overlook the vast waterscape of the entire Dongpo Wetlands. The wetlands stretch along the lakeside road, linked by Jimei Bridge, musical fountains, and green trails. At dusk, when the city lights come on, the water reflects the silhouette of Yuanjing Tower—this is the favorite strolling spot for locals. No entrance fee, no time pressure. Perfect for a leisurely post-dinner walk along the lakeside, collecting both urban warmth and poetic beauty in your heart.

Nature and Wellness

Wawu Mountain

A massive flat-topped mountain geologists call the "Table Mountain of China," with a broad summit resembling a plateau, surrounded by primeval forests. Lanxi and Yuanyi waterfalls cascade down, while Yannü Lake shines like a mirror. The Panda National Park Museum lies at the mountain’s foot. In spring and summer, enjoy rhododendron cloud seas; in autumn, witness the full spectrum of colored foliage; in winter, experience a rare southern snowscape. Take two cable car rides to reach the summit with minimal effort, then hike the Shuangdongxi and Lanxi boardwalks. Whether seeking summer coolness, winter snow views, or fresh air, it’s worth a dedicated visit.

Pengzu Mountain

Named after Pengzu, the legendary ancestor of longevity, this wellness mountain specializes in "light hiking + health care." Qishan Twin Buddha sit carved into the cliffside, the Pengzu Temple offers serene incense, and the mountain path features fun slide cars. Walk the 99-step Longevity Staircase, listen to stories about Pengzu’s health practices, and enjoy a bowl of "the World’s Number One Soup" for lunch. The mountain isn’t high, nor are the paths steep—ideal for those wanting gentle movement without exhaustion.

What You Can Do in Meishan: 4 Experiences

  1. Spend Half a Day as a "Su Fan" at the Three Sū Temple: Follow a guided tour through the "China Has the Three Sū" family values exhibition, copy a line of Su Shi’s poetry, enjoy a cup of covered tea in the garden—these experiences offer deeper meaning than just taking photos.
  2. Take a Boat Ride Along Dongpo Water Street: In the evening, glide through on a black-roofed boat or painted barge, enjoying Song-style lighting and the Yuanjing Tower fountain—perfect for those who don’t want to climb mountains.
  3. Ride Cable Cars to See the Table Mountain at Wawu: Two sections—the Jinhuajiao to mid-mountain, and Gufuping to the summit—save energy. Then walk the Shuangdongxi and Lanxi boardwalks. Ideal for summer cooling off or winter snow viewing.
  4. Learn Longevity Practices and Healthy Meals at Pengzu Mountain: Climb the 99-step Longevity Staircase, hear tales of Pengzu’s wellness wisdom, and enjoy lunch with "the World’s Number One Soup" or a health-focused banquet.

What to Eat in Meishan:

Return to the Three Sū Temple for an "Su Dongpo Banquet": Braised or steamed Su Dongpo Pork, sour soup or douban sauce-style Su Dongpo Fish, small portions of Su Dongpo Meat, paired with garlic cucumber; vegetarian dishes include Qingcheng bamboo shoots and Hongya ferns.