Shigu Academy reached its peak and earned its spot on the list of the four great academies of ancient China. [Photo by Zhang Xingjian/chinadaily.com.cn]

According to Tan Chong'en, the newly-built Shigu Academy is more than an educational institution, but has fully restored its function, giving lectures, collecting books and offering sacrifices to ancestors. A variety of activities take place here, with a view to promoting Chinese traditional culture.

"Shigu Academy takes the central position in promoting Hunan culture," said Guo Jianheng, former director of the cultural relics department of Hengyang city and the author of the book Shigu Academy, adding the academy has integrated Confucian classics with teaching.