Duchenghuang Temple (都城隍庙, Du City God Temple), established during the 20th year of the Hongwu era in the Ming Dynasty, is one of the three major city god temples in China. Over its 600-year history, this temple has faced numerous fires, including a significant blaze during the first year of the Yongzheng era in the Qing Dynasty. Fortunately, the main hall from the Ming period survived intact. Following the fire, the Governor of Sichuan and Shaanxi, Ye Guangyao, dismantled the wooden structures of the Ming Prince of Qin’s residence to rebuild the temple, which has undergone several renovations since.
You might wonder why this temple is referred to as Duchenghuang Temple rather than simply a Chenghuang Temple (city god temple). The title “Du (都)”, meaning supervising, signifies its elevated status; it serves as the protector of five provinces in Northwest China. Thus, adding “Du” emphasizes its significance and authority, distinguishing it from ordinary city god temples.
The primary deity worshipped here is General Ji Xin, a notable general under Liu Bang, the founder of the Han Dynasty. During the Battle of Xingyang, Ji Xin was captured by Xiang Yu while trying to protect Liu Bang. Tragically, Ji Xin was burned alive in a cage by Xiang Yu. After Liu Bang unified China, he honored Ji Xin by granting him the title of “Duchenghuang,” commemorating his loyalty and bravery.
Today, Duchenghuang Temple stands alongside Xiangzi Temple as one of the last remaining Taoist temples in Xi’an. As you exit the temple, you’ll notice a plaque that reads “Have You Arrived?” This sign serves as a reminder that spirits are watching, urging visitors to refrain from wrongdoing. Accompanying the plaque is a couplet: the upper line states, “In the mortal realm, good and evil are determined by you,” while the lower line says, “In the underworld, no one has ever escaped,” with the horizontal inscription echoing, “Have You Arrived?”
Visiting Information:
- Address: 129 West Street, Xi’an
- Transportation:
- Bus: Take buses 4, 7, 15, 23, 32, 43, 45, 201, 205, 215, 218, 221, 222, 251, 252, 300, 604, 611, 612, 618, 622, or K630 to “Guangji Street” and walk from there.
- Metro: Take Line 2 or Line 6 to Bell Tower Station, exit C (near Huimin Street), and walk about 15 minutes. While transferring on Line 6, you can also see ancient wells from the Ming dynasty within the Xi’an metro.
- Taxi: Avoid taking a taxi during peak hours, as traffic can be heavy in the city center.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM)
Entrance Fee: Free