Lianxi Academy, Rucheng, Chenzhou: A Cultural Journey Through Time and Space

Lianxi Academy, Rucheng, Chenzhou: A Cultural Journey Through Time and Space Preparation - Learn about the history of the academy: Lianxi Academy was built in 1220 to commemorate Zhou Dunyi, the founder of Neo-Confucianism in the Northern Song dynasty. He wrote famous essays such as "On the Love of the Lotus" while serving as the county magistrate here. - Transportation: The academy is located at Building 21, Zhuangyuan Building, West Ring Road, Rucheng County, Chenzhou City, Hunan Province. You can drive there and set the navigation to "Rucheng Lianxi Academy". You can also take public transportation to Rucheng and then take a taxi to the academy. Tour Route - Bronze Statue Area at the Gate: Enter the academy and you will first see the towering bronze statue of Mr. Lianxi, and feel his spirit of detachment from the world and pursuit of truth. - Xilian Hall: Behind the bronze statue is Xilian Hall, where you can admire the items and introductions related to Mr. Lianxi and appreciate his philosophical thoughts. - Courtyard and Side Rooms: Stroll through the courtyard and admire the simple architectural style. The east and west side rooms display cultural knowledge and historical relics related to Neo-Confucianism, such as the couplets written by Wang Kaizhi, a famous scholar in the late Qing dynasty. - Backyard: The backyard has a Xinhua Bookstore where you can read and study, and feel the tranquil cultural atmosphere. There are also books about Zhou Dunyi for sale, which you can buy as souvenirs. Special Experiences - Tea Brewing: There is a tea brewing area in the outer courtyard or central courtyard of the academy, where you can enjoy the fun of tea brewing and experience the leisurely lifestyle of the ancients. - Cultural Activities: Pay attention to the academy's activity schedule and participate in cultural activities such as calligraphy exhibitions and poetry recitations to deeply feel the charm of traditional culture. - Study Activities: The academy will hold study activities from time to time, such as papermaking experience and scientific experiments, which are suitable for parent-child or student groups to participate in and increase their understanding of traditional culture. Local Food - Rucheng Cured Duck: The meat is tender and fragrant, and can be tasted in local restaurants. - Rucheng Rice Noodles: Loved by locals for its unique taste and rich ingredients, it is sold in many streets and alleys. Nearby Attractions - Taiji Yule Bay: About 2 km from Lianxi Academy, it is the source of inspiration for Zhou Dunyi's creation of "Taiji Tushuo". You can enjoy the natural scenery and experience Neo-Confucianism. Notes - Follow the academy's rules, keep quiet, do not make loud noises, and do not touch cultural relics. - Protect the environment of the academy and do not litter.