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A statue of Wang Yangming stands at the entrance of Yangming Culture Park. [Photo by Yang Fan] |
Xiuwen county in Guiyang will play host to the fifth International Yangming Culture Festival on Oct 29 and 30, in worship of Wang Yangming, a famous philosopher of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644).
Wang’s philosophy stressed initiative consciousness and the practical application of knowledge and wisdom. According to the organizers, the participants will discuss the significances of Wang’s thoughts in moral teaching and his conduct in cultivating and promoting integrity.
Jiang Zhilun, Party secretary of Xiuwen, said the government has been preparing for the festival since the beginning of the year. Tourist reception areas have been set up, as well as a raft of activities planned for the 112 guests from across the world who are confirmed to take part.
About Wang Yangming Wang is regarded as a sage from Chinese history, together with the better known Confucius and Menci. He is responsible for notable achievements in philosophy, literature, military thought and education.
Born in Zhejiang province, Wang became famous for his talents at a very young age. In his thirties, due to a disagreement with a eunuch, he was exiled to Xiuwen, 38 kilometers away from Guiyang. It was here that he set up his famous philosophy school.
Wang's philosophy became popular among scholars, and Xiuwen county grew to be known by more people because of it. People still travel to the county today to visit the cave on Qixia Mountain where Wang developed his beliefs.
To promote Wang's thoughts and to boost tourism, the local government is building a Yangming Culture Park at the foot of the mountain. A 15-meter-high statue of Wang has been erected at the entrance of the park, and it will open to the public on Oct 28.
Edited by Owen Fishwick
