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Songyang Academy, located near Zhongyue Temple, is one of the four great academies of ancient my country and a key tourist attraction in the Central Plains region. Besides exploring the ancient cultural heritage, visitors often come to see the Han Dynasty General Cypress, a rare national treasure.
Songyang Academy originally had three "General Cypresses" (now only two). The smallest was called "Great General." The largest ones were nicknamed "Second General" and "Third General." Why are the names of these "General Cypresses" inconsistent with their actual status?
Here's a fascinating story: Emperor Wu of Han mistakenly conferred titles on three cypresses. Upon Emperor Wu's triumphant return, the horns blared at Mount Song for the Fengshan ceremony. The third cypress elder greeted him and was made a general, his head bowed. The second cypress elder greeted him and was made the second general, his stomach bursting. The eldest cypress elder greeted him last and was made the third general, returning to the underworld. Emperor Wu knew his mistake but refused to correct it, leaving the general guilty and the three generals feeling guilty. So, were the two cypress elders, the second general, and the second general, both angry and angry, not a loss?
The temperate monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
The General Cypress is not only very old but also huge in size. It can be called the king of cypress trees and is one of the symbols of Songyang Academy.
It is recommended to play for about 30 minutes.
Free, included in the 80 yuan/person ticket for Songyang Scenic Area.
08:00-18:00
The General Bai of the Han Dynasty monument is dedicated to General Bai, a hero who played an important role during the Han Dynasty. His military prowess helped solidify the stability of the empire, and the monument stands as a symbol of bravery and leadership in Chinese history.
The monument is located in Zhengzhou, Henan Province. Visitors can take a taxi or public transportation to the site, which is a short distance from the city center. It is also possible to reach it by walking if you're nearby.
The site is generally open year-round, and it’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. The weather is cooler and more comfortable during these times, especially in the summer months.
There is no entrance fee to visit the General Bai monument. However, there might be small charges for specific exhibits or events held at the site. Tickets for special events can be purchased either at the entrance or online through local ticket platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary for regular visits, but for special events or exhibitions, it is recommended to book at least a few days in advance.
It typically takes around 1-2 hours to fully explore the monument and its surroundings. If you plan to take part in additional exhibitions or activities, you may want to allocate more time.
Guided tours are available in Chinese, and sometimes English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance. Audio guides are available for rent in various languages, including English.
The best photography spots are near the monument itself, where you can capture both the statue and the scenic background. The surrounding park offers great views for landscape photography as well.
Start by exploring the General Bai monument and reading the historical plaques. Afterward, stroll through the park, taking in the views and visiting any exhibits or historical displays available.
Night visits are not typically available, and the site does not feature light shows. Special tours may be available on certain days for educational purposes or during festivals.
The site can get crowded on weekends and holidays. For a more peaceful experience, visit during weekdays or early in the morning.
The attraction is generally accessible to elderly and disabled visitors. However, some areas around the monument might have stairs or uneven ground, so it's important to take care when moving around.
Mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) and credit cards are accepted at most points of service. It's still a good idea to carry some cash, especially for smaller purchases or vendors.
There are several restaurants and cafes within a short distance from the monument. The city center offers a wider variety of dining options, including traditional Henan cuisine.
Vegetarian options are available at most local restaurants. Halal food may be found in the nearby Muslim quarters or specific halal restaurants in the city.
There are several hotels within the Zhengzhou city center, which is a short taxi ride away. These range from budget options to more luxurious accommodations.
Souvenir shops are available nearby, offering historical artifacts, postcards, and other locally themed items related to General Bai's legacy and Henan's history.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or public transportation back to the city center. Zhengzhou’s main train station and airport are easily accessible from here for onward travel.
