Yingtian Academy
应天府书院
One of the Four Great Academies of the Northern Song, where Fan Zhongyan studied and taught. The rebuilt compound stands on the shore of Nanhu Lake.
Yingtian Academy traces its origins to the Nandu School founded by Yang Que in the Five Dynasties period. It was upgraded to a prefectural school in the Northern Song. Together with the Bailudong, Yuelu and Songyang academies, it ranks among the Four Great Academies. Fan Zhongyan studied here diligently and oversaw its teaching. The present complex was rebuilt in recent years based on historical records. It includes the Front Lecture Hall, Hall of Revered Sages, Minglun Hall and a library building, and it showcases imperial examination and academy culture. The Hall of Revered Sages enshrines Confucius. The academy sits outside the south gate of the old city on the shore of Nanhu Lake, about a 20-minute walk from the old town. Admission follows the scenic area's posted prices. It can be combined with the Zhang Xun Memorial Temple and Nanhu Lake.
Opening hours
About 08:30–17:30