Discover Yuelu Academy: Where ancient wisdom meets modern scholarship

Nestled at the foot of Yuelu Mountain in Changsha, central China's Hunan Province, Yuelu Academy is an ancient institution with a rich history, remaining the only traditional academy in the country to both preserve its centuries-old legacy and continue its scholarly activities to this day.

Established in 976 during the Northern Song Dynasty, the academy has carried forward its educational mission through the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. Its journey from Yuelu Academy to Hunan University represents a remarkable evolution from ancient scholarship to modern education.

With over a thousand students and nearly a hundred professors, Yuelu Academy keeps alive a rich academic heritage that deeply influenced Chairman Mao Zedong, who studied and lived here during his formative years. Mao was especially inspired by the academy's ethos of "seeking truth from facts," as inscribed on its plaque.

The academy's well-preserved ancient architecture and scenic surroundings offer students a unique study environment. They have access to tens of thousands of books in the centuries-old library, where they can read in historical halls or study outside in the ancient garden, surrounded by a tranquil lake, tall trees and thriving bamboos.

When informed that visitors aren't permitted inside the classrooms and library due to ongoing study sessions, Dr. Johnson, a visitor from Australia, remarked, "I'm so envious of the students here. I'd do another PhD just to have the chance to study in this incredible place."

Yuelu Academy stands as a testament to China's enduring respect for knowledge. Here, the ancient pursuit of truth and wisdom continues to inspire new generations, fostering a place where the spirit of discovery thrives amid history, cultural legacy and natural beauty.