Park of Marquis Liu

A Visitor's Guide to Liuhou Park: Honoring a Literary Giant in the Heart of Liuzhou

Nestled in the bustling urban center of Liuzhou, Guangxi, lies an oasis of tranquility and cultural reverence: Liuhou Park. This city park, a beloved green lung and historical site, offers residents and visitors alike a peaceful retreat from the metropolitan rhythm. Its primary purpose is to commemorate Liu Zongyuan, a towering literary figure of the Tang Dynasty who served as the prefect of Liuzhou. His governance and writings left an indelible mark on the city, and this park stands as a lasting tribute to his legacy.

A Park of Serenity and Classical Charm Upon entering Liuhou Park, one is immediately struck by its design aesthetic, which embodies the classic elegance typical of traditional Chinese gardens south of the Yangtze River. Tall, ancient trees provide a lush canopy, their shadows dancing on winding paths and alongside quiet ponds. The atmosphere is one of relaxed leisure; it's a common sight to see locals practicing tai chi in the morning mist, enjoying a leisurely stroll after meals, or simply finding a quiet bench for contemplation. This seamless blend of natural beauty and everyday life makes the park a perfect first stop to understand the city's quieter pace.

The Heart of the Park: Liuhou Temple Pay Homage at the Ancestral Hall The cultural and spiritual core of the park is undoubtedly the Liuhou Temple (Liuhou Ci). This hall is dedicated to the memory of Liu Zongyuan. For history enthusiasts and those wishing to connect with Liuzhou's most celebrated cultural icon, a visit here is essential. The temple houses various relics and steles related to his life and work. Most significantly, visitors can pay their respects at Liu Zongyuan's cenotaph—a tomb containing his personal effects, as his actual burial site is located elsewhere. This act of homage offers a moment of reflection on the profound influence a scholar-official could wield centuries ago.

Exploring Beyond the Park Gates A Walk to Dongmen City Gate After immersing yourself in the park's serene ambiance and historical depth, consider extending your exploration into the surrounding historical fabric of Liuzhou. A highly recommended route is to exit and take a approximately 20-minute stroll south along Wenhui Road. Your destination is the intersection of Wenhui Road and Shuguang Road, where you will find the Dongmen City Gate (East Gate Tower).

Ascend the Ancient Ramparts This gate tower is a precious surviving fragment of Liuzhou's ancient city walls. Climbing onto these ramparts provides a powerful contrast to the park's garden scenery. From the top of the gate, you are rewarded with a commanding panoramic view of the majestic Liu River winding through the city. Standing on this strategic defensive structure, one can easily imagine the city's past, evoking a sense of the ancient, impregnable fortress town ("wan fu mo kai" or "ten thousand soldiers could not breach it") that Liuzhou once was. This journey from the contemplative park to the strategic vantage point beautifully encapsulates the city's dual heritage of literary refinement and historical resilience.

Essential Visitor Information

Admission and Fees: * Liuhou Park itself is open to the public free of charge. * Please note that access to the Liuhou Temple inside the park requires a separate admission ticket. For the most current ticket prices and details, it is advisable to inquire directly at the park's ticket office or check official notices on the day of your visit.

Operating Hours: * The park is open daily from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM, year-round.

Recommended Visit Duration: * A comprehensive visit to the park, including the Liuhou Temple, typically requires 1 to 3 hours. Allocating additional time for the walk to and exploration of the Dongmen City Gate is highly recommended for a fuller experience.

Getting There: * By Public Bus: The park is easily accessible via several public bus routes. Visitors can take bus numbers 6, 19, 31, or 39 and alight at the "City Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine" (Shi Zhongyiyuan) bus stop. From there, the park entrance is within a short walking distance.

Contact: * For any specific inquiries, you may contact the park at +86 772 2824230.