The Tomb of Wang Jian (王建墓, Wángjiàn Mù) was built for the first king (847–918 CE) of the Shu state in the turbulent Five Dynasties and Ten States period, a 70-year period in 10th-century China (not to be confused with the much older, ancient Shu kingdom that produced the Bronze Age artifacts in the museums).
The above-ground tomb – the only one excavated in China so far – was pillaged just once after the fall of the Shu, following Wang's death. Decorated with gorgeous carvings of 24 musicians and dancers all playing different instruments, it's considered the best surviving record of Tang dynasty court entertainment. The statue at the back is thought to be the only existing lifelike sculpture of an ancient Chinese king.
Strolling the surrounding grounds is free and altogether makes for a pleasant hour or two. Bus route 48 from Chunxi Rd (春熙路) comes here, or a taxi will bring you to the tomb in around 15 minutes.
