Three sides of water surround Shigu Academy, whose grounds are characterized by trees, pavilions, and towers. Shigu Academy is located in a central urban area.

Shigu Academy: History and Architecture

Shigu Academy was built in 810 AD and is considered one of the four great academies of ancient China. Its attractions include the Yu-Bi Pavilion complex, the Wuhou Shrine, the Li-Zhongjie Shrine, Daguan Tower, Hejiang Pavilion, Zhu Ling Cave, and cliff inscriptions. Shrines and pavilions stand alongside a tower, a cave, and cliff inscriptions.

In addition to the shade-giving trees, pavilions, and towers, the grounds include a stone drum about two meters high.

Shigu Square brings together cultural and recreational activities. Described after a renovation in 2024, the square includes the “Shigu Jiangshan” memorial arch, a cultural and leisure corridor, sculptures of the Seven Sages, and gardens. In autumn, visitors climb Laiyan Tower to view and photograph Hengyang’s natural scenery. A 2024 description presents the Wild Goose Culture Experience Hall in Hengyang City as a place where immersive technology, new-media art, and multimedia interaction convey wild goose culture. This media-based interpretation differs from the historical architecture of Shigu Academy.

Nanyue Temple in Nanyue District

Nanyue District is part of Hengyang City; Nanyue Temple is located there. Its history dates back to the Sui dynasty (581–618), when it was originally built. The present-day temple dates from 1882. Its historic complex includes ancestral halls, Buddhist and Taoist temples, and imperial palaces. Nanyue Temple is the largest group of ancient buildings in southern China and in the area of the Five Great Mountains.

The site’s eventful architectural history is also part of its story: the temple was destroyed by fire six times and repaired or rebuilt a total of 17 times during the Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. In 2006, the temple was granted state protection.

The Nanyue Temple Fair includes an annual tradition around Lunar New Year. Folk customs begin on the first day of the Lunar New Year and continue through the 15th day. Around the Great Temple, activities include the Nanyue Deity Theater, pilgrim songs and dances, and group activities such as riddle-solving, chess, and a night market. The specific activities may vary.

Official route in Nanyue District: stops in sequence

An official route in Nanyue District connects Hongxing Village in Nanyue Town, the Great Temple of Mount Heng, Mount Heng, Zhurong Town, and the Huaxigu accommodation. The route lists the stops in the order shown. Check the current operating conditions of the listed stops before using the route.

Hengyang City lies south of Mount Heng. Nanyue District, where Mount Heng is located, is part of Hengyang City.

Discover more destinations: Changde, Huaihua, Changsha, Loudi, Yueyang, Chenzhou, Yongzhou, Xiangtan

For the main travel overview: Hunan.