A journey of self-discovery

People with the knowledge of Wang's ideas and tourism planning have conducted field investigations, and found 12 sites across Guizhou which carry traces of Wang's spirit, Xie says.

Those sites have been pieced together into a classic learning route, along which travelers can enjoy a dialogue with the ancient thinker while having fun.

Li Xiaolong, head of the Guizhou Longchang Wang Yangming Research Institute, believes the value of each of the 12 sites is different, but their connection is very close.

"Wang Yangming came to Longchang with a heavy heart, but was light-hearted and full of hope when he left," Li says, adding that the 12 sites have preserved elements reflecting the changes Wang went through.

"When visiting each point, it is important to quieten your mind, truly enter into the thinker's inner world, and carefully appreciate and reflect upon the historical background and his life experiences. Only then can you gain something meaningful from the journey," Li says.

Zhang Lubin has been working at the Yangming Culture Park at Longchang, one of the sites, for eight years.

It was where Wang gained his philosophical insight, which was named the "Longchang enlightenment".

"I have given group tours thousands of times now, hosting probably 60 or 70 tours during the busiest months," Zhang says.