Shigu Academy has a unique geographical location and is surrounded by water on three sides. [Photo by Zhang Xingjian/chinadaily.com.cn]

"The patriotism and the spirit of pioneering stands for the cultural significance of Shigu Academy, and it will live on in generations of Chinese people," Guo added.

The newly built Shigu Academy is an example of the local government's efforts to speed up the building of a public cultural service system. For instance, a total of 17 intangible cultural heritage teaching bases have been established, and local art treasures including Hengyang Xiang Opera, Hengyang Qi Opera, and Hengzhou Huagu Opera have stepped into the city's art schools and classes, making more people aware of Chinese traditional culture.