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Located on Wanshou Road, Nanmen, Licheng District, Quanzhou City, Fujian Province, the former residence of Li Zhi, a prominent Ming Dynasty thinker, resided during his youth. Later generations converted the residence into an ancestral hall. Recent renovations have included a portrait of Li Zhi hanging inside for visitors to admire. The residence was originally a modest house, three bays and two deep. A main hall, measuring six meters wide and nine meters deep, with a front patio, remains. It has been renovated in the style of an ancient southern Fujian residence and converted into a memorial hall.
Li Zhi (1527-1602), courtesy name Hongfu and pseudonym Zhuowu, was a successful juren in the Jiajing reign of the Ming Dynasty. He was a progressive thinker. At the age of 55, he resigned from his official position to lecture, discuss history, and write books. His numerous works include "Collection of Books," "Continuation of Collection of Books," "Burning of Books," "Continuation of Burning of Books," and "Essentials of Historical Outlines and Comments."
Subtropical maritime monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about half an hour
free
8:00-17:30
The Former Residence of Li Zhi is a historical site dedicated to the renowned Ming dynasty philosopher, Li Zhi. Li Zhi was known for his critical thinking and contributions to Chinese philosophy, particularly in his rejection of Confucian orthodoxy. The residence offers insights into his life, ideas, and the intellectual culture of the time. The site is significant for scholars and visitors interested in Chinese philosophy and literature.
The Former Residence of Li Zhi is located in Quanzhou, Fujian Province. It can be accessed by taxi or local buses from the center of Quanzhou city. There are no direct metro connections, so a taxi or bus is the most convenient option. It is also within walking distance from several key attractions in Quanzhou.
The site is typically open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last entry around 4:30 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning, especially during weekdays when there are fewer crowds. The spring and autumn months offer pleasant weather for exploring the site.
The entrance fee is usually around 20-30 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the site itself. There is no online ticketing system available for this attraction.
No advance booking is required. You can purchase tickets on the day of your visit at the entrance.
A typical visit to the Former Residence of Li Zhi lasts about 1-2 hours, depending on your interest in the exhibits and historical context. If you plan to explore the gardens and attend any cultural activities, you may need additional time.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may provide tours in basic English. Audio guides are typically not available, but visitors can often hire local guides at the entrance. It's recommended to check in advance for availability of English-speaking guides.
The best photography spots are in the gardens, especially near the ponds and traditional Chinese architectural features. The main building offers a picturesque backdrop, and the surrounding greenery makes for great landscape shots.
Start by visiting the main residence to learn about Li Zhi's life and contributions. Then, explore the surrounding gardens for a peaceful walk. Finally, check out the exhibitions showcasing his works and intellectual legacy. This route will give you a comprehensive experience of the site.
Night visits or light shows are not available at the Former Residence of Li Zhi. The site operates primarily during daylight hours, and there are no special tours or events after dark.
The attraction can get crowded on weekends and public holidays, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). The least crowded times are weekday mornings, particularly outside of Chinese public holiday periods.
Basic facilities such as public toilets are available. There are no restaurants or food stalls within the site, so it is recommended to bring your own snacks and water. Rest areas are available within the gardens for relaxation. There are no major shops, but small souvenir items may be available near the entrance.
The Former Residence of Li Zhi is relatively accessible, with paved paths leading to the main residence and gardens. However, some areas may have uneven terrain, which could be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children will find the site easy to navigate, and there are plenty of open spaces for them to explore.
Cash is commonly accepted at the site, but mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are also available for ticket purchases and any small transactions.
There are no restaurants inside the Former Residence of Li Zhi, but nearby, you can find local eateries offering Fujian cuisine, such as noodles, seafood, and traditional snacks.
Vegetarian options are available in the local restaurants near the site, as well as some vegan-friendly dishes. Halal food is less common, but you can find options in some larger restaurants in Quanzhou.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Quanzhou city, within a 10-15 minute drive from the Former Residence of Li Zhi. Options range from budget hotels to more comfortable stays.
There are small souvenir shops near the entrance selling traditional Chinese crafts, tea, and local products. Typical souvenirs include tea sets, calligraphy brushes, and items related to Li Zhi's intellectual legacy.
After visiting the Former Residence of Li Zhi, taxis or buses are available to take you to other nearby attractions or back to Quanzhou city. Alternatively, you can continue exploring other historical sites by walking if they are nearby.
