Yan Nan Academy Introduction
Yennan Academy, established by the Song Dynasty scholar Zhu Xi, is located in Kinmen and is recognized as the earliest cultural and educational site in the area. This initiative stimulated the local literary atmosphere, resulting in many successful candidates during the Ming and Qing dynasties. In the late Ming Dynasty, Yennan Academy was transformed into Taimunyan Temple, primarily dedicated to worshiping the Black-faced Qing Shui Ancestor, and, along with Taiwu Mountain Haiyin Temple, Tianpu Chenghuang Temple, Jincheng South Gate Xianglian Temple, and Anqian Enzhugong Temple, it is collectively known as the five major temples of Kinmen. The interior of Yennan Academy features a "回" shaped design, with the main hall enshrining the Black-faced Qing Shui Ancestor, while the central area of the rear hall houses deities related to academic endeavors, such as Wenchang Dijun, Zhu Xi, and Kui Xing. The side rooms are designated for cultural exhibitions and activities, allowing visitors to appreciate calligraphy works and read books. Additionally, there is a large scroll-shaped installation art piece in the square outside the academy, which has become an alternative photo spot in Kinmen. Furthermore, the elevated terrain of Yennan Academy provides superb views of Kinmen City and Xiamen City.
