Yan Nan Academy Introduction
Yannan Academy is the lecture site established by the Song Dynasty scholar Zhu Xi in Kinmen, and it is the earliest cultural and educational sanctum in Kinmen. This initiative stimulated the local literary atmosphere, leading to the emergence of numerous successful candidates during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. In the late Ming Dynasty, Yannan Academy was transformed into the Taiwenyan Temple, which primarily worships the Black-faced Kuan Yin. Along with Taiwu Mountain Haiyin Temple, Tienpu Chenghuang Temple, Jincheng South Gate Incense Lotus Temple, and Anqian Enzhu Gong Temple, it is collectively known as the "Five Great Temples of Kinmen." The interior design of Yannan Academy follows a "回" (hui) character shape, with the main hall dedicated to the Black-faced Kuan Yin, and the rear hall housing the deities related to academic achievements, including Wenchang Dijun, Zhu Xi, and Kui Xing. The side rooms are designated as exhibition and event spaces where visitors can appreciate calligraphy works and browse books. Outside the academy, there is a large installation art piece resembling a giant scroll, which has become an alternative photo spot in Kinmen. Additionally, the elevated location of Yannan Academy provides a great vantage point to enjoy views of both the Kinmen urban area and Xiamen City.
