Libai's Hometown

Historical Overview

8th Century CE: Li Bai born in Jiangyou (then Changming County), Sichuan, during the Tang Dynasty’s golden age.

10th–12th Centuries: Local legends and memorials emerge, including the first recorded shrine to Li Bai.

1962: The People’s Government of Jiangyou establishes the Li Bai Memorial Museum to preserve his cultural heritage.

1982: Jiangyou officially designated as "Libai’s Hometown" by the Chinese government, cementing its national significance.

2000s–Present: Ongoing restorations and international collaborations, such as the 2015 Sino-Japanese Li Bai Poetry Symposium.

Structural Layout

The site comprises three main areas:

Li Bai Memorial Museum: A modern complex with exhibition halls, a library, and a research center dedicated to Li Bai’s life and works.

Li Bai Residence Ruins: Reconstructed Tang-style courtyards and gardens reflecting his childhood environment, including a lotus pond and bamboo groves.

Taibai Park: A scenic area named after Li Bai’s pseudonym "Taibai," featuring pavilions, stone inscriptions, and the "Drinking Moon Pavilion" overlooking the Fujiang River.

Major Attractions

Li Bai Memorial Hall: A grand hall displaying portraits, calligraphy, and replicas of his poems, with a central statue of the poet holding a wine cup.

Li Bai Residence: A reconstructed Tang Dynasty home with traditional architecture, including a study room where he allegedly composed early works.

Stone Inscriptions: Over 200 ancient stone tablets carved with Li Bai’s poems, including rare Ming and Qing Dynasty engravings.

Drinking Moon Pavilion: A hexagonal pavilion where visitors recite poetry while overlooking the river, inspired by Li Bai’s love for nature and wine.

Suggested Itineraries

Classic Route (1–2 Hours)

Morning: Visit the Memorial Hall → Explore the Residence Ruins → Stroll through Taibai Park.

Highlights: Iconic statues, Tang-style architecture, and serene river views.

Cultural Depth Route (3–4 Hours)

Morning: Memorial Hall → Residence Ruins → Stone Inscription Gallery.

Afternoon: Attend a poetry reading at Drinking Moon Pavilion → Join a calligraphy workshop.

Highlights: Rare artifacts, interactive activities, and immersion in Li Bai’s artistic world.

All-Day Exploration (Full Day)

Morning: Memorial Museum exhibits → Residence gardens → Lunch at a local teahouse.

Afternoon: Hike Mount Dai (Li Bai’s alleged retreat) → Evening river cruise with poetry recitals.

Highlights: Scenic hikes, cultural performances, and sunset views over the Fujiang River.

Ticket Purchase

Online: Book via the official "Libai’s Hometown" WeChat account or travel platforms like Ctrip (up to 3 days in advance).

On-Site: Purchase tickets at the entrance; queues are shorter before 10 AM.

Prices: Standard Entry: ¥40–60 (varies by season).

Guided Tours: ¥100–200 (1-hour tours in English/Mandarin, including highlights and anecdotes).

Free Admission: Children under 12, seniors over 70, and disabled visitors.

Transportation

By Subway: Line 1 to Jiangyou Station, then a 15-minute taxi ride to the site.

By Bus: Take bus 15 or 22 from Jiangyou City Center to "Libai Guju" stop.

By Taxi: Direct to "Libai Guju" from Mianyang Airport (40-minute drive).

Parking: Free outdoor lots near the entrance; electric vehicle charging stations available.

Best Time & Tips

Avoid Crowds: Peak Hours: 10 AM–2 PM (weekends/holidays).

Best Times: Early morning (8:30 AM) or late afternoon (4 PM) for quieter visits.

Quietest Days: Weekdays (Tuesdays–Thursdays); the site is closed on Mondays.

Weather: spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer mild temperatures for outdoor exploration.

Essentials: Bring a poetry anthology for readings at scenic spots.