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Chinese Neo-Confucianism was the focus of the “Unity of Knowledge and Action: Exploring the Origins of Chinese Neo-Confucianism” Guizhou study tour, which ended on July 14 at the Confucius Academy in Guiyang. The event marked the end of the International Confucian Association’s 2024 Sinology Youth Scholars Study Camp, which encompassed a rich 8-day exploration of this philosophical tradition.

Starting on July 7, 22 young Sinology scholars from 15 countries on five continents embarked on this journey. Beginning in Longchang, the place where Wang Yangming first attained enlightenment, the scholars followed the revered sage’s footsteps through the region’s scenic mountains and rivers. This immersive experience allowed him to retrace Wang Yangming’s psychological journey and gain a deeper understanding of the Yangming School of Neo-Confucianism.

Guiyang, a city where natural scenery and magnificent culture complement each other, offers participants the opportunity to appreciate its environmental beauty and experience the dynamic vitality of Guizhou as it continues to modernize.

French scholar Lin Sanze was fascinated by Guiyang’s natural beauty, while Australian scholar Tommy Tan expressed deep admiration for sage Yangming’s sense of finding truth in adversity. Anil Paudel of Nepal was impressed by Wang Yangming’s persistence in spreading his principles despite the challenging environment.

The successful hosting of the Sinology Camp exemplifies Guizhou Confucius Academy’s efforts to transform and harness Guizhou’s Yangming culture. It also serves as a living practice to promote traditional Chinese culture worldwide and facilitate mutual learning between global cultures.

Li Jingjing, director of the Guiyang Confucius Academy office, shared the original motive behind organizing the activity: Yangming’s knowledge at Longchang represents the pinnacle of Chinese Neo-Confucianism. It is hoped that the Sinology Camp will help young scholars gain a deeper understanding of the origins and pinnacle of Chinese Neo-Confucianism.

The Sinology Camp curriculum was carefully designed to connect Yangming culture with the history and culture of Guizhou Province and its capital, Guiyang. Participants experienced Chinese Neo-Confucianism and the fascination of Guizhou through various courses. These include the core course “Enlightenment at Longchang: Exploring the Origins of the Yangming School of Neo-Confucianism”, supplementary courses “Colorful Guizhou, Cool Guiyang”, experiential courses “Unity of Knowledge and Action: Applying What We Learn” and exchanges. Courses “Thought Provocation: Learning from each other.”

The study paths were carefully planned, with a main line leading participants to fully understand the wisdom and realm of Yangming. The three supporting lines represent the ecological beauty, cultural attraction and contemporary development of Guizhou. Through the study tour, participants gained both knowledge and emotional rewards.

At the closing ceremony of the camp, Dai Jianwei, director of the Cultural Communication Center of Guiyang Confucius Academy, hoped that the participants would internalize the essence of the Yangming School of Neo-Confucianism and manifest it in their actions. This will help them become informed Sinologists who present a true, multi-dimensional and picturesque view of China to the world.