Taishan Academy in Jiangchuan District, Yuxi

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Taishan Academy (台山书院) is located in Yucun Village (渔村), Qianwei Town (前卫镇), Jiangchuan District (江川区), Yuxi City (玉溪市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It lies on the western shore of Xingyun Lake (星云湖), about 5 kilometers north of Jiangchuan’s city center. Nestled between mountains and water, this scenic spot is one of the most important historical and cultural attractions in Jiangchuan District.

History and Culture

Taishan Academy (台山书院) was originally established in the first year of the Shunzhi era (1644) during the Qing Dynasty and was then known as Taishan Temple (台山寺). It was renovated in the 33rd year of Kangxi’s reign (1694), with additional halls and side rooms added in the 22nd year of Guangxu (1896). The academy functioned both as a religious center and as an educational institution, cultivating many accomplished individuals.

Local Customs

Jiangchuan District (江川区) is home to several ethnic minorities, including the Yi (彝族) and Mongolian (蒙古族) peoples. Folk customs are vibrant here, and locals often hold traditional sacrificial ceremonies on special festivals to pray for favorable weather and good harvests.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Jiangchuan District experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons and mild temperatures throughout the year. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons and the best times to visit Taishan Academy (台山书院).

Recommended Attractions and Duration

Main Structures of Taishan Academy (台山书院)
The complex includes a main hall, side halls, guest rooms, courtyards, and an ancient stage. The architectural style is simple and elegant.
Suggested duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Ancient Trees
Inside the courtyard stands an ancient luohan pine tree (罗汉松), known for its thick and twisted trunk—rare in southern Yunnan.
Suggested duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Surrounding Natural Scenery
Seven small hills encircle the area, collectively known as “Clouds and Stars Encircling the Moon” (云星拱月). Large fragrant trees and red lotus trees grow inside and outside the buildings, serving as a habitat for egrets.
Suggested duration: Approximately 30 minutes.

Entrance Fee

Admission to Taishan Academy (台山书院) is free.

Transportation

By Car: Drive about 5 kilometers along the western shore of Xingyun Lake (星云湖) from the center of Jiangchuan District (江川区).

By Public Transport: Take a local bus from Jiangchuan city center to Qianwei Town (前卫镇), then walk to the academy.

Local Food

Jiangchuan specialties include Jiangchuan Bighead Carp (江川大头鱼) and Silver Fish (银鱼), available at local restaurants.

Shopping

Local handicrafts such as Yi embroidery (彝族刺绣) and silver jewelry (银饰) are great souvenirs.

Accommodation

City Hotels: Numerous mid-range hotels are available in Jiangchuan District (江川区).

Guesthouses: There are unique homestays around Taishan Academy (台山书院) where you can experience local life.

Travel Tips

Environmental Protection: Please do not litter and help protect the natural environment.

Cultural Respect: Maintain silence while visiting and respect local cultural and religious customs.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1:
Morning – Arrive in Jiangchuan and visit the main structures of Taishan Academy (台山书院)
Afternoon – Explore the ancient trees and surrounding natural scenery

Day 2:
Morning – Enjoy local cuisine and shop for specialties in Jiangchuan
Afternoon – Return home

Taishan Academy (台山书院), with its rich historical and cultural background and picturesque natural surroundings, continues to attract numerous visitors. May your journey in Jiangchuan be memorable and enriched by the charm of this historical site.