Live Your Best Lives
Explore the historical architecture and tranquil courtyards of Qiongtai Academy. Admire the ancient inscriptions and learn about Hainan's educational history. Take in the picturesque surroundings and visit the nearby gardens for a peaceful experience.
Qiongtai Academy is a famous historical site in Hainan, located on Wenzhuang Road in Fucheng Town, Qiongshan District, Haikou City. Legend has it that it was built in memory of Qiu Jun, Hainan's foremost scholar and a Ming Dynasty academician. It is also famous for being the setting for the Cantonese opera "Searching for the Academy."
Upon entering the academy, you'll be greeted by frangipani trees on either side. Frangipani, also known as Burmese Gardenia, has pure white petals with a pale yellow center, creating a dignified and elegant appearance, resembling an egg white encasing an egg yolk, hence the name. The main building of Qiongtai Academy, the two-story Kuixing Tower, features green tiles, red corridors, and white walls. Inside, statues of Zhang Yuesong, the academy's head teacher and a top scholar, and Xie Bao, a Jinshi (Jinshi) scholar, are displayed. The academy also has two small exhibition halls and a small museum. The museum displays a wealth of stills from the play "Searching the Academy" and detailed historical materials, showcasing the 300-year history of Qiongtai Academy and Hainan's educational history.
Tropical maritime monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons
It is recommended to visit for about 1 hour
5 yuan
09:00-17:00 (open on weekends and holidays)
Qiongtai Academy is one of the oldest academies in Hainan, established during the Tang Dynasty. It has played a significant role in education and culture, being a center for scholars and intellectuals in the region. The academy is a symbol of Hainan's rich educational heritage.
The academy is located in Haikou, Hainan. It can be accessed by taxi, bus, or walking. Taxis are the most convenient, though buses also pass by the area. The academy is centrally located in Haikou, making it easy to reach from most parts of the city.
The academy is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the morning or late afternoon, avoiding midday heat and crowds.
The entrance fee is generally free for public access. However, for special tours or events, there may be a small charge. Tickets can be purchased on-site or online for guided tours.
Booking in advance is not usually necessary, but for guided tours or special events, it's recommended to book a few days in advance to secure your spot.
It typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to explore the academy fully, depending on your interest in the historical exhibits and architecture.
Highlights include the ancient teaching halls, inscriptions on stone tablets, and the beautiful courtyards. Don't miss the exhibition rooms showcasing historical artifacts related to Hainan's educational history.
Guided tours are available in both Chinese and English. Audio guides are available in Chinese, and sometimes in English, depending on availability.
The main courtyard and the traditional pavilions provide excellent spots for photos. The architecture and surrounding greenery create picturesque views, particularly during sunrise or sunset.
Start with the main hall to learn about the academy’s history, then walk through the courtyard to see the inscriptions. Finish your visit by exploring the tranquil gardens and pavilions, where you can reflect on the historical atmosphere.
There are no night visits or light shows. However, special cultural performances and events may be held from time to time, particularly during festivals or celebrations.
The academy can be crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays, particularly in the mornings before noon.
The academy has basic facilities including restrooms and a few small shops offering local souvenirs. There are no major food or beverage services, but there are cafes and restaurants nearby in Haikou.
The academy is generally accessible for elderly and children, with well-maintained paths and rest areas. However, some areas with stairs may be difficult for disabled visitors, although the main courtyards are accessible.
Mobile payments (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) and credit cards are widely accepted, so cash is not necessary for most transactions.
There are no restaurants or cafes inside the academy. However, several dining options are located nearby in Haikou, including local eateries serving Hainanese cuisine and international restaurants.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some local restaurants. Halal food options are also present in Haikou, particularly in Muslim-friendly areas.
Several hotels are located nearby, including mid-range and luxury options like the Haikou Marriott Hotel and local guesthouses offering convenient access to the academy.
Nearby attractions include the Haikou Old Town, Hainan Museum, and the Dongzhai Harbor Mangrove Nature Reserve. These can be easily combined in a day trip.
There are small souvenir shops inside the academy selling traditional Chinese crafts, books, and educational items. Local handicrafts and Hainanese souvenirs can also be found in the area.
Taxis, ride-hailing services, and buses are the best options for continuing your trip after visiting. Public transport is accessible from the academy to other parts of Haikou.
