Photo/Zhang Jian (NBD)

Feb.13 (NBD) -- Feb 12 marks the 1134h birthday of Du Fu (also known as Zi Mei). 

During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), Du Fu arrived in Chengdu to escape the turmoil of the Anshi Rebellion.

During his stay there, Du Fu built a cottage along the banks of the Huanhua River and wrote nearly a fifth of his poems (1400) there. The poems later became a symbol of poetry and literature in the city.

Photo/Zhang Jian (NBD)

Today, his cottage has been preserved and is a popular tourist attraction. People come to admire the beauty of the park and pay tribute to the great poet.

Chengdu is also renowned for its natural beauty. With the majestic snow-capped mountains in the background, the city creates a unique urban aesthetic that is unmatched in the world.

Besides, it is home to the Wuhou Temple, which is the only shrine in China that pays tribute to both a ruler and a minister. It is one of the most influential sites of the Three Kingdoms period and Du Fu also wrote a poem here.

Jinli Street, one of the most prosperous and oldest commercial streets in western Sichuan, is now a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

In the misty rain, one can almost feel the bustling atmosphere of ancient Chengdu. Chengdu is truly a unique and poetic city, having preserved its rich cultural heritage for centuries.

It is no wonder why it remains one of the most popular destinations in China.