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Yingtianfu Academy, also known as Yingtian Academy, Suiyang Academy, Nanjing Academy, Nando Academy, and Nanjing Imperial College, is located on the South Lake of Shangqiu Ancient City in Suiyang District, Shangqiu City, Henan Province. It is one of the four famous academies in ancient China. According to historical records, "schools in prefectures and counties began to be established here."
Yingtianfu Academy, formerly Suiyang Academy, was founded by Yang Que, a Shangqiu native, during the Later Jin Dynasty of the Five Dynasties. In the second year of the Dazhong Xiangfu reign of the Northern Song Dynasty (1009), Emperor Zhenzong of Song upgraded Yingtian Academy to a prefectural academy, officially granting it the name "Yingtianfu Academy." In the seventh year of the Dazhong Xiangfu reign (1014), Yingtian Prefecture (present-day Shangqiu, Henan) was elevated to Nanjing, becoming the secondary capital of the Song Dynasty. Yingtian Academy was then known as "Nanjing Academy." In the third year of the Qingli reign (1043), Yingtianfu Academy was elevated to the "Nanjing Imperial Academy," becoming the highest institution of learning in the Northern Song Dynasty and the only academy in ancient China to achieve this status.
While most academies in the Northern Song Dynasty were located in scenic mountainous areas, Yingtianfu Academy was uniquely situated in a bustling city, where it produced numerous talented individuals. With the influx of scholars like Yan Shu and Fan Zhongyan, Yingtianfu Academy gradually developed into the most influential academy in the Northern Song Dynasty.
Warm temperate continental monsoon climate. After the fall of the Tang Dynasty, Chinese history entered the period of division called "Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms". Official schools were destroyed and schools lost their teaching. A number of private academies began to appear in the Central Plains, and Yingtianfu Academy was born. It is suitable for travel in all seasons.
Chongsheng Hall, Dacheng Hall, front lecture hall, academy gate, Imperial Library, Zhuangyuan Bridge, instructors' residence, Minglun Hall, corridors, etc.
It is recommended to play for about 2 hours.
20 yuan/person
Summer: 8:00-17:30;
Winter: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Yingtian Academy is a historic educational institution in Shangqiu, Henan, dating back centuries. It played an important role in promoting Confucian studies and local education, representing traditional Chinese scholarly culture.
The academy is generally open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Morning visits are ideal for fewer crowds and better lighting for photography.
Entrance is typically free, though small fees may apply for special exhibitions. Tickets can usually be purchased onsite if required.
Advance booking is generally not necessary for regular visits.
1–2 hours is sufficient to explore the main buildings and gardens.
Guided tours or audio guides are rarely available; visitors typically explore independently.
Enter through the main gate, visit the central halls first, explore classrooms and library, then walk through courtyards and gardens, and exit via the main entrance.
No organized night visits or light shows are available; the academy closes at sunset.
Usually quiet; weekdays and early mornings are the least crowded times.
Facilities are limited; visitors should bring water. Nearby shops and eateries are available in the city.
Some areas may have steps or uneven floors; elderly and disabled visitors should take caution. Children can visit safely under supervision.
Cash is useful for nearby shops; mobile payments may be accepted in local restaurants and stores.
Local restaurants and small cafes nearby serve Shangqiu cuisine and refreshments.
Vegetarian options are generally available; halal options are limited and require local inquiry.
Shangqiu city has multiple hotels and guesthouses within short driving distance from the academy.
Nearby shops may sell cultural items, calligraphy sets, and local handicrafts as souvenirs.
