The Ancient Longzhong Scenic Area is located in Xiangcheng District, Xiangyang City, Hubei Province, and is a national 5A-level tourist attraction. The scenic area covers a total area of 209 square kilometers, with a core area of 12 square kilometers. This is the place where Zhuge Liang, the famous statesman and military strategist of the Three Kingdoms period, lived in seclusion and farmed during his youth, and it is also the site of the story of "Three Visits to the Thatched Cottage." It is known as the "Cradle of Wisdom and the Birthplace of the Strategy to Divide the Realm into Three Parts."
Historical Culture
Ancient Longzhong is where Zhuge Liang (181-234 AD) lived in seclusion, studied, and farmed from the age of 17 to 27. In 207 AD, Liu Bei made "Three Visits to the Thatched Cottage" to invite Zhuge Liang to leave his retreat and serve him, leaving behind the famous "Longzhong Plan," which laid the strategic foundation for the division of the realm into three parts.
The scenic area preserves a large number of historical relics related to Zhuge Liang. Since the Western Jin Dynasty, memorial buildings have been built here in successive dynasties, and most of the existing structures were rebuilt during the Ming and Qing dynasties. In 1996, it was designated by the State Council as a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level.
Ancient Longzhong is not only an important birthplace of Three Kingdoms culture, but also a typical representative of the "reclusive culture" in traditional Chinese culture. Generations of literati and poets have left behind a large number of poems and literary works here.
Main Attractions
Wuhou Shrine
First built in the Western Jin Dynasty, the existing buildings are in the Ming and Qing style and serve as the main site for commemorating Zhuge Liang. Inside the shrine are a statue of Zhuge Liang, inscriptions from various dynasties, and couplets, among which the stone carving of the "Former Memorial on Dispatching the Troops" is particularly precious.
Sangu Hall
Built in imitation of Han Dynasty architectural style, it recreates the historical scene of Liu Bei's "Three Visits to the Thatched Cottage." Inside the hall are statues of Liu Bei, Zhuge Liang, and others, vividly presenting this celebrated story.
Caolu Pavilion
It is said to be the site of the thatched cottage where Zhuge Liang lived in seclusion. The current building was rebuilt in the Qing Dynasty. The pavilion displays an introduction to Zhuge Liang's life and replicas of related cultural relics.
Longzhong Academy
First built in the Yuan Dynasty, it is one of the best-preserved ancient academies in the Hubei region. The academy has a quiet environment and showcases the educational system and academic atmosphere of ancient academies.
Suggested Tour Route：
Recommended half-day tour route: In the morning, visit Wuhou Shrine to learn about Zhuge Liang's life and deeds; then visit core attractions such as Sangu Hall and Caolu Pavilion; in the afternoon, visit Longzhong Academy to experience ancient academy culture. Visitors with sufficient time may hike to enjoy the natural scenery within the scenic area.
Travel Tips：
The best seasons for tourism are spring and autumn (April-May, September-October), when the climate is pleasant.
It is recommended to learn about Three Kingdoms history and Zhuge Liang's life in advance for a more meaningful visit.
The scenic area is shaded by green trees; in summer, pay attention to mosquito and insect protection.
You can experience the hanfu photo project in the scenic area to add a cultural experience.
Longzhong Academy has a quiet environment and is suitable for quietly experiencing traditional culture.
Precautions：
Protect cultural relics and historic sites; do not carve or scribble on buildings.
Some areas in the scenic area are relatively secluded; it is recommended to travel in groups.
Respect the cultural atmosphere in the scenic area and keep quiet and orderly.
When buying souvenirs, pay attention to distinguishing authenticity and choose reputable shops.
Pay attention to safety on mountain roads and be careful of slippery roads on rainy days.
Smoking is prohibited in the scenic area; pay attention to fire safety.
Transportation：
Self-driving: Departing from the urban area of Xiangyang via Tanxi Road and Longzhong Avenue, about a 20-minute drive.
Bus: Take buses No. 512 or No. 543 from downtown Xiangyang to reach the scenic area directly.
High-speed rail: Take the high-speed rail to Xiangyang East Railway Station, then transfer to a taxi for about 30 minutes to reach the scenic area.
Opening Hours：
The scenic area is open all year round, with daily opening hours from 8:00 to 17:30 (extended to 18:00 during peak season). Longzhong Academy is open from 9:00 to 16:30 and is closed on Mondays (except statutory holidays).
Tickets：
Tickets are 87 yuan per person (including sightseeing bus).