At the foot of Mount Jishan in Shaoxing lies the place where the Sage of Calligraphy, Wang Xizhi, once lived. The scenic area itself is an open street, with old buildings along the roadside featuring whitewashed walls and black tiles, some are residences, and others are small shops where you can buy snacks and enjoy coffee. Strolling along the street, reminiscing about the stories of Wang Xizhi’s fan inscription and the pearl admonition that took place here is quite interesting. To the north of the district is Huancheng North Road, to the west is Jiefang Road, to the south is Shengli East Road, and to the east is Xingzhong Road, with many alleys along the way that can be entered. If you are strolling casually, you can choose according to your personal itinerary. Near Cai Yuanpei Square is the former residence of Cai Yuanpei, a simple Ming and Qing dynasty building, which displays the life and deeds of the academic giant, Mr. Cai Yuanpei. There is a statue of Mr. Cai in the hall, exuding a scholarly demeanor. In front of the former residence is Feibi Alley, and the adjacent Qian Ye Guildhouse is now a coin exhibition hall, where you can learn about the development history of Shaoxing’s banks. Walking northward, passing by the birthplace of the Jishan School, Jishan Academy, and Zhuangyuan Pavilion, you will arrive at the high Wenbi Tower. This tower, resembling a writing brush, is a landmark of Jishan and a great place to overlook the city of Shaoxing from a height. Climbing the tower allows you to overlook the entire district, with the high-rise buildings of Shaoxing city also clearly visible in the distance. Returning south to West Street, following the broad stone street to the east, you will arrive at the Jiezhu Lecture Temple, which was once the former residence of Wang Xizhi. In front of the temple, there are goose ponds and ink ponds, almost merging with the surrounding old residences. Continuing south along Jishan Street in front of the temple gate, you will encounter the famous Duopo Alley and Ti Shan Bridge, known for Wang Xizhi’s fan inscription for an old woman, and the Sanhuai Hall, where you can see well-preserved architecture and wood and stone carvings. Walking to the Wang Xizhi Exhibition Hall in Xie Qiao Alley, you can not only see the calligraphic works and life stories of Wang Xizhi and his son but also experience the charm of calligraphy creation in the calligraphy experience area. The opening hours are all year round, open all day, with different business hours for internal venues. The specific business status depends on the daily opening. Must-see tips: Except for the Qian Ye Guildhouse and Sanhuai Hall, other attractions in the joint ticket can be purchased separately at the respective attractions. If you plan to visit several attractions, buying a joint ticket is more cost-effective.
The Hometown of the Sage of Calligraphy
At the foot of Mount Jishan in Shaoxing lies the place where the Sage of Calligraphy, Wang Xizhi, on[...]