Li Shutong’s Calligraphy Stele Forest is located on Zhouwei Road in Hebei District. This stele forest is a classic garden-style architecture, engraved with over 80 pieces of the master’s mid-to-late period calligraphy works, as well as numerous elegiac works by famous calligraphers. The gate tower of the stele forest features red eaves and grey tiles, with a black and gold plaque inscribed by Mr. Zhao Puchu, which reads ‘Li Shutong’s Calligraphy Stele Forest’ above the vermilion gate.
Upon entering, one finds a tranquil courtyard. The courtyard, no more than 20 meters wide and over 30 meters long, has a pond at its center, spanning which is a white marble arched bridge. Beyond the bridge lies a long corridor with green pillars and red eaves. Directly opposite the courtyard gate stands a bronze statue of Master Hongyi, over a meter tall, seated cross-legged with palms facing the sky. On the wall behind the statue is a tribute by He Jingzhi, which reads ‘The soul becomes a mythical bird, the blood splashes into red-hearted grass. From now on, a good river and mountain, heroes make.’ This is a reflection of Li Shutong’s unwavering dedication to his country and his sincere heart. The steles are inscribed with many admonitory sayings written by Li Shutong, such as ‘Do not let small grievances alienate close relatives, do not forget old favors because of new grudges,’ ‘Inhumane actions lead to crises at every step, a life without understanding leads to a dream,’ ‘Those involved should place themselves outside of interests, those who offer advice should place themselves within interests,’ and so on. These wise words are beneficial for a lifetime. The stele forest is open all year round, accessible 24 hours a day.
