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The Yuelu Academy's ancient architectural complex is organized into five major architectural structures: teaching, book collection, sacrificial, garden, and memorial. The main building area spans over 31,000 square meters and is divided into the main academy, the attached Confucian Temple, and the newly built China Academy Museum. The main buildings include the main gate, the second gate, the lecture hall, the half-learning hall, and the teaching hall. The main gate, formerly known as the "Central Gate" in the Song Dynasty, became known as the "Hongmen" due to a stone archway built along the riverbank. Behind the main gate, during the Song and Yuan dynasties, was the site of the ceremonial hall. The lecture hall, situated at the center of the academy, is flanked by the north and south halls, the teaching hall and the half-learning hall, both former residences for teachers and students. The academy boasts eight scenic spots: Willow Pond at Dawn, Peach Grove in the Rising Sun, Tung Tree Shade on a Path, Lotus in the Wind at Evening Fragrance, Curving Stream with Sounding Springs, Watching Fish in the Green Pond, Sitting on a Flowery Mound in the Moonlight, and Winter Greenery in the Bamboo Grove. The academy embodies traditional Chinese academy architecture and is one of the four most famous academies in Chinese history.
Suitable for all seasons;
It has a subtropical monsoon humid climate with distinct four seasons, hot and rainy summers and warm and humid winters.
It is recommended to play for 1-3 hours;
Nearby attractions: Aiwan Pavilion, Changsha Xiangjiang River Scenic Belt, Hunan University, etc.
Regular ticket: Adult ticket 50 RMB/Sightseeing bus 20 RMB (Monday-Sunday, January 1st - December 31st)
Cable car: 30 yuan/person for the upward journey, 25 yuan/person for the downward journey, and 50 yuan/person for the full journey package.
07:30-18:00 (Monday-Sunday, May 1st-October 31st)
08:00-17:30 (November 1st - April 30th of the following year)
Yuelu Academy is one of the oldest and most prestigious academies in China, founded in 976 during the Song Dynasty. It has played a key role in the development of Chinese education and culture, attracting scholars for over a thousand years. The academy is famous for its contribution to Confucian studies and its serene environment, making it a symbol of traditional Chinese education.
Yuelu Academy is located on the southern slopes of Yuelu Mountain in Changsha, Hunan Province. You can reach the academy by metro (Yuelu Mountain station, Line 2), bus, taxi, or by walking if you're staying nearby. The academy is about a 10-minute drive from the city center.
Yuelu Academy is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is mild and the academy’s gardens are particularly beautiful.
The entrance fee for Yuelu Academy is approximately 60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, or online via popular Chinese ticketing platforms like Ctrip or Fliggy for convenience.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons or weekends. You can book tickets a few days ahead online, especially if you want to join a guided tour.
To fully explore Yuelu Academy and its surroundings, plan for about 2-3 hours. This will allow you to visit the academy's key areas, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy the peaceful environment.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance. Audio guides in English and Chinese are available at the entrance for a small fee.
The best photography spots are from the top of Yuelu Mountain, where you can capture panoramic views of Changsha city and the Xiang River. The academy's tranquil gardens and ancient architecture also offer excellent photo opportunities.
Start at the main entrance and explore the central halls and courtyards. Take a walk through the garden, visit the Yuelu Academy Museum, then hike up Yuelu Mountain for panoramic views. Finish your visit by relaxing at one of the quiet spots around the academy.
Night visits are not typically available. However, special cultural events and performances may be held at the academy during certain festivals. It’s best to check in advance for any events.
Yuelu Academy can get crowded during weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays or during off-peak seasons like the winter months.
Basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and water fountains are available. There are small shops selling souvenirs and refreshments near the entrance, but no large restaurants within the academy itself.
Yuelu Academy is mostly accessible for elderly visitors and children. However, some areas around Yuelu Mountain may involve steep paths that could be challenging for disabled visitors. It’s best to inquire about accessibility before your visit if necessary.
Cards and mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted for ticket purchases and at shops inside the academy. Cash is still accepted, but digital payments are preferred.
There are a few local restaurants and cafes near Yuelu Academy, especially around the Yuelu Mountain area, offering traditional Chinese dishes and snacks. For a wider variety, head to the nearby Wuyi Square in downtown Changsha.
Some vegetarian and vegan options are available in the local eateries near the academy. However, for more extensive vegan or halal options, it's recommended to visit restaurants in downtown Changsha.
There are several hotels near Yuelu Academy, ranging from budget to mid-range. Options include Yuelu Hotel, Changsha Yuelu Mountain Hotel, and other accommodations in the downtown Changsha area, just a short drive from the academy.
There are small souvenir shops at the academy selling traditional Chinese calligraphy items, cultural books, and local handicrafts. You can also find items like tea, silk products, and postcards.
The best transportation options after visiting Yuelu Academy include taxis, metro (Line 2), or public buses, all of which are easily accessible near the academy. Alternatively, you can hire a car or use a ride-hailing service like Didi.
