Yichun Ziyang Academy

Yichun Ziyang Academy

Originally built as the “Daoist Palace of Morality,” Ziyang Academy was a Taoist temple following the Lingbao sect’s doctrine of the “unity of the Three Teachings,” enshrining Confucius, Sakyamuni, and Laozi. It also served as a gathering place where scholars debated philosophy, lectured, composed poetry, and enjoyed leisure. Zhu Xi gave lectures here twice, and because his courtesy name was Ziyang, people later referred to it as Ziyang Academy. The bold, cursive characters “Ziyang Academy” inscribed on the gate plaque of the current courtyard are rubbings of Zhu Xi’s handwriting. The ginkgo tree on the left upon entering was planted by Zhu Xi himself to create an atmosphere reminiscent of the Apricot Altar (a traditional place of learning). Towering ancient trees fill the courtyard, their branches lush and green. Four osmanthus trees—golden, silver, and everblooming varieties—planted from east to west in the center of the courtyard during the early Yuan Dynasty fill the air with fragrance for miles during autumn. As a result, it was also called the “Osmanthus Garden Palace” during the Ming Dynasty, and stone inscriptions still remain in the courtyard.