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Visit the Heshun Library, which is one of the oldest libraries in Yunnan, to explore its unique architecture and rich collection of books. It's a peaceful place for reading, and visitors can learn about the history of the region through its vast resources. Don’t forget to stroll around the beautiful courtyard and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Heshun Library is located on the banks of the picturesque Shuanghong Bridge in Heshun, a hometown of overseas Chinese. Spanning 1,392 square meters, the library complex comprises a main gate, a middle gate, a garden, a main building, and a library, creating a fusion of Chinese and Western architectural styles. The main gate is a replica of the archway-style gate of the Hanjing Hall, built during the reign of Emperor Guangxu of the Qing Dynasty. Above the gate hangs a striking plaque inscribed with the words "Heshun Library," written by Zhang Li, a successful juren (a successful candidate in the imperial examination) in Heshun. The white characters on a blue background create a striking contrast.
Heshun Library is one of the largest rural libraries in China. It was founded in 1924 with funds raised by overseas Chinese. It is a traditional Chinese building with a garden in front, which is beautiful and elegant. The library has a collection of more than 10,000 books, among which many ancient books are particularly precious.
The Heshun Library, formerly known as the Xianxin Society, was founded by Cun Fuqing, a member of the Heshun Tongmenghui in the late Qing Dynasty, and the Yueshu Baoshe, established in 1924. With donations from overseas Chinese and fellow villagers, the library was expanded in 1928, and the new building was completed in 1938. To date, the library boasts a collection of over 70,000 volumes, including over 10,000 ancient and rare books, with inscriptions by cultural figures such as Hu Shi, Xiong Qinglai, Liao Chengzhi, and Li Shizeng.
The tropical monsoon climate combines the advantages of continental and maritime climates. Winter and spring are sunny and warm, while summer and autumn have a mix of sunny and rainy weather and are cool and pleasant. All four seasons are suitable for travel.
Entering the main gate of Heshun Library, ascend the stone steps to the Western-style, flat-roofed, arched central door, where the library's name is inscribed by Hu Shi. Inside the central gate is a garden filled with lush flowers and trees, elegantly laid out. Passing through the garden, you'll reach the main building, a two-story, five-bay wooden structure with two semi-hexagonal pavilions jutting out from the front. The building's elegant facade, with Western-style doors and windows, creates a novel and imposing structure. Behind the main building is the library.
It is recommended to play for about 1 hour.
Included in the Heshun Ancient Town ticket (55 yuan/person)
08:00-17:00
Heshun Library, established in 1924, is an important cultural landmark in Baoshan, Yunnan. It’s known for its historical value, as it was founded by local scholars with the mission to promote education and preserve knowledge. The library is a symbol of the region’s long-standing academic traditions.
The Heshun Library is located in Heshun Town, Baoshan, Yunnan. It can be accessed by taxi from Baoshan's city center or through local buses. For those staying nearby, walking is a pleasant option as the library is situated within a quiet area.
The library is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is in the early morning or late afternoon when the library is less crowded, and the weather is cooler for a relaxed exploration.
There is no entrance fee for the Heshun Library. Visitors can simply walk in without a prior ticket, and no online booking is required.
No advance booking is needed for the library as it is a public space with free entry. However, if visiting during peak seasons, it's recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds.
You can explore Heshun Library in about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your interest in the historical books and the architecture. For a more relaxed experience, you might spend longer enjoying the peaceful environment and surroundings.
The main highlight is the historical book collection, particularly ancient manuscripts. The library’s unique architecture, with its wooden beams and traditional design, is also worth admiring. The courtyard is a serene spot for photos and relaxation.
There are no guided tours or audio guides available at Heshun Library. However, the library staff can provide some assistance in basic English if needed, especially about the history of the library.
The library’s main courtyard offers excellent opportunities for photography, especially with its lush greenery and traditional architecture. The view from the library steps, overlooking the surrounding town, is another good spot for a photo.
Start by exploring the main library building, looking at the book collections and historical artifacts. Then, take a stroll around the library’s courtyard and surrounding garden for a peaceful experience.
Night visits or special tours are not offered at Heshun Library, as it is a daytime attraction. The peaceful atmosphere and natural light make it ideal for daytime visits.
The library is usually quiet, but it can get busier during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit in the morning on weekdays, particularly Tuesday to Thursday.
Basic facilities like clean toilets and water stations are available. However, there are no shops or food options directly within the library. You can find some cafes and small restaurants nearby in the town.
The library is accessible to elderly visitors and children, but due to its historical structure, it may not be fully wheelchair-friendly. There are stairs, and the pathways can be narrow in places.
No payments are required for entry, but if purchasing souvenirs or food nearby, both cash and mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely accepted in the area.
Nearby, you'll find local Yunnan restaurants offering traditional dishes like rice noodles, hot pot, and tea. Popular spots include the Heshun Tea House and local noodle shops.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available in the area, particularly in Yunnan-style dishes such as tofu, vegetables, and rice-based meals. Halal options may be limited but can be found at certain restaurants in Baoshan.
There are several accommodations near Heshun Library, including guesthouses and mid-range hotels like the Heshun International Hotel and local inns.
Nearby attractions include the Heshun Old Town and the Tengchong Volcano Park. These can be easily combined in a day trip for a full exploration of the region.
There are a few local souvenir shops in the town, where you can purchase Yunnan tea, handicrafts, and locally-made books and bookmarks.
Taxis and buses are available for onward travel. If you're heading to other attractions in Baoshan, you can easily access public transportation or rent a car.
