Ehu Academy

Introducing Ehu Academy

Located at the foot of Ehu Mountain in Ehu Town, Qianshan County, Shangrao, Ehu Academy, one of the four great academies of ancient Jiangxi, occupies 8,000 square meters. Ehu Academy was once a renowned cultural center. The Ehu meeting between Southern Song Neo-Confucianists Zhu Xi and Lu Jiuyuan, among others, was a seminal event in the history of Chinese Confucianism.

In order to commemorate the "Ehu Meeting", people built the "Four Sages Temple" behind the academy. In the tenth year of Chunxi in the Song Dynasty, it was named "Wenzong Academy", and later changed its name to "Ehu Academy".

Over a period of more than 800 years, from the Southern Song Dynasty to the Qing Dynasty, the academy was destroyed by wars and rebuilt several times. The largest renovation and expansion project was in 1717, the 56th year of the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty.

Emperor Kangxi also wrote an inscription for the Imperial Library. The academy has survived through the centuries, retaining its original appearance and structure, making it one of the few remaining academy buildings to have been preserved in its original state.

The academy features permanent exhibitions and displays such as "The Ehu Meeting and Ehu Academy" and "Xin Qiji and Qianshan." The academy welcomes an average of over 60,000 visitors annually, including 10,000 from overseas experts, scholars, and cultural groups.

Climate and best time to travel

Shangrao City has a warm and humid climate, belonging to the subtropical humid climate. This warm climate, abundant sunshine, plentiful rainfall, and a long frost-free period allow for lush crop growth. Major weather hazards include winter snow, drought, lightning, and heavy rain.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Behind Ehu Academy, within the Four Sages' Pavilion, tablets are dedicated to Zhu, Lü, and the two Lu brothers. A plaque inscribed with the words "Suddenly and Gradually Returning to the Same Path" appears opposite the imperial plaque "The Founder of Taoism" hanging in the building in front of the academy, highlighting the grandeur of the Song Dynasty's meeting between Zhu and Lu at Ehu. During the Anti-Japanese War, Ehu Academy served as the base camp for the Southeast Training Corps.

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

8:00-17:20

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Most Popular FAQs for Ehu Academy

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Ehu Academy is an ancient Confucian academy in Shangrao, Jiangxi, historically used for education and scholarly study. It represents traditional Chinese academic culture and Confucian values, playing an important role in the intellectual and cultural development of the region.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in Shangrao, Jiangxi, Ehu Academy is accessible by taxi or ride-hailing from the city center. Local buses may reach nearby stops, with a short walk to the academy itself.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Typically open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Early morning or weekdays are recommended for a quieter experience.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fee is usually around 30–50 CNY. Tickets are available on-site, and some online booking options exist for tours or group visits.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is generally not required for casual visits. Advance booking is suggested only for guided tours or large groups, typically a few days in advance.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1.5–2 hours to walk through the academy, explore buildings, and enjoy the gardens.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Main academy halls and lecture rooms
• Historic libraries and classrooms
• Ancient inscriptions and cultural relics
• Courtyards, gardens, and surrounding scenic spots

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Chinese; English or other language tours may require prior arrangement.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Main courtyard and entrance gate
• Academy lecture halls and libraries with historical architecture
• Gardens and scenic pathways
• Stone inscriptions and traditional statues

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main gate, visit central lecture halls and libraries, walk through gardens and courtyards, explore smaller classrooms and relics, then exit via the southern or side gate for a complete tour.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are limited. Occasional cultural exhibitions or educational programs may be offered; check locally for special tours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It is moderately visited; weekdays and mornings are the least crowded times.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities include restrooms, small rest areas, and souvenir shops. Food and drink options are limited inside but available nearby.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Some areas may have uneven stone pathways. Elderly and children should be cautious, and wheelchair access is limited.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted; mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely used at shops and ticket counters.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local tea houses and small eateries near the academy
• Restaurants in Shangrao city center
• Snack stalls along the approach roads

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at local eateries; halal options may be limited and require planning.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Several hotels and guesthouses in Shangrao city center provide easy access to Ehu Academy.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Hekou Ancient Town
• Zhuqiao Ancient Village
• Bamboo Sea Scenic Area

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops sell traditional calligraphy items, local handicrafts, and academy-themed keepsakes.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis or ride-hailing services to nearby attractions or Shangrao city center. Local buses may connect to other cultural sites in the region.