Wugong Temple

Wugong Temple (Five Officials Memorial Temple or Temple of the Five Lords) is the oldest and largest classical temple and garden complex in Hainan. It was built to honor five prominent officials from the Tang and Song dynasties who were exiled to Hainan: Li Deyu (李德裕), Li Gang (李纲), Zhao Ding (赵鼎), Li Guang (李光), and Hu Quan (胡铨).

In ancient China, Hainan was considered a remote frontier region. Officials who fell out of favor with the emperor or powerful political figures were often sent here in exile. Despite their circumstances, these five officials worked to improve local agriculture, introduce medical knowledge from the mainland, and promote education among the local population. Their efforts helped support the economic and cultural development of Hainan during a period when the island was still relatively underdeveloped. To commemorate their contributions, later generations built Wugong Temple in their honor.

Today, Wugong Temple is listed as a Major Historical and Cultural Site Protected at the National Level in China. Rather than a single building, it is a large complex of traditional Chinese gardens and historic structures, making it one of Hainan's most important cultural attractions.

Highlights of Wugong Temple

1. "The First Building of Hainan" (Main Hall of Wugong Temple)
   The centerpiece of the complex, this building houses memorial tablets dedicated to the Five Officials. Visitors can climb to the second floor for views of the surrounding gardens.

2. Sugong Temple
   Built in honor of Su Dongpo, the renowned poet, writer, and scholar of the Northern Song Dynasty.

3. Fusu Spring and Qiongyuan Garden
   Located within Qiongyuan Garden, Fusu Spring is an ancient well with a history of more than a thousand years. It is often referred to as "Hainan's First Spring."

4. Temple of the Two Fubo Generals
   Dedicated to two Fubo Generals from the Western Han and Eastern Han dynasties. They led military campaigns in Hainan and played an important role in maintaining the unity of the Chinese state.

Admission

To be confirmed after reopening

Recommended visit duration

1-3 hours

Suggested itinerary

Wugong Temple → Hainan Provincial Museum → Qilou Old Street