Liu Zimiao Travel Guide

Liu Zimiao, also known as Liu Zongyuan Memorial Temple, is an ancient architectural complex dedicated to the Tang Dynasty's distinguished literary figure and thinker, Liu Zongyuan. In 1956, it was announced by Hunan Province as a 'Provincial Cultural Relics Protection Unit,' and in 2001, it was declared a 'National Key Cultural Relics Protection Unit.' Liu Zimiao is located in Lingling District, Yongzhou City. It was originally built in the third year of the Zhihe reign during the Northern Song Dynasty (AD 1056), and the existing temple buildings were rebuilt during the Tongzhi and Guangxu periods of the Qing Dynasty. Covering an area of 10,000 square meters with a construction area of 4,000 square meters, it is a brick-and-wood structure. Liu Zimiao has three depths and is three bays wide, consisting of the opera tower, the central hall, the God of Wealth Hall, the Goddess Hall, and the Stele Corridor of the Xiang Hall. It is grand in scale, unique in style, and rich in heritage. Entering the temple, you will be captivated by the exquisite and delicate ancient architecture: the flying eaves soar into the sky, and the intricate roof decorations seem to showcase the craftsmen's skill. Every brick, tile, stone, and piece of wood is so harmoniously arranged, man-made yet seemingly the work of nature, exuding an air of lightness, tranquility, and charm, as if narrating the beauty of the mountains and rivers and the spirit of the great people of southern Hunan. In the backyard of the temple, there are precious steles such as the 'Three Excellences Stele' and the 'Yan Song Stele,' which are known as 'national treasures.' Their carvings, paintings, and plaques are all from the hands of famous artists, making them highly valuable art treasures. Additionally, the temple also displays rubbings of stele inscriptions by numerous famous artists. Looking at the calligraphy of ancient writers, with its fluidity and exquisite composition, it transcends a thousand years and is vividly presented before your eyes, stirring the soul before returning to tranquility. I wandered and took photos slowly here, and without realizing it, I spent two hours. Outside Liu Zimiao is Yu Creek, and the famous Xiao Shitan described in 'Record of the Little Stone Pond' is right here. Following the stream, you can experience the secluded bamboo, clear ponds, and fish swimming in the air as described by Liu Zongyuan. Unlike the bustling Liu Zi Street, there are not many tourists here. This quietness amidst the noise, this detachment from the world, seems to transport us back to Liu Zongyuan's spiritual world, allowing us to better understand the mixed feelings he had when he was demoted to the south. Opening hours: Summer 8:00-18:00 Winter 8:00-17:30 Stop selling tickets and admitting visitors half an hour before closing 🎫Ticket: 25, you can buy a joint ticket for 68 yuan, which includes Dongshan Scenic Area, Liu Zimiao, and Pingzhou Academy.