On October 25, Guizhou hosted the launch event for the original book “Yangming: Inquiry into Twelve Realms,” marking a significant milestone as it combines Wang Yangming’s philosophy with cultural geography and regional tourism in China. This book vividly portrays Wang Yangming’s intellectual journey in Guizhou.
Wang Yangming was a notable philosopher and thinker from China’s Ming Dynasty, known for his exile to Guizhou over 500 years ago. During his nearly three years in the province, he experienced what is famously known as “the Dragon Field Enlightenment” and began teaching at the Guiyang Wenming Academy. It was here that he articulated his groundbreaking concept of “unity of knowledge and action,” giving birth to Yangming’s philosophy, which has left an enduring impact not only on Guizhou and China but also on the world.
The book “Yangming: Inquiry into Twelve Realms,” organized and planned by the Guizhou Provincial Party Committee’s Publicity Department and created in collaboration with China National Geography, has brought together leading experts in Yangming philosophy, prominent cultural figures from Guizhou, and well-known writers. This collaborative effort aims to merge academic rigor with practical tourism insights, providing a comprehensive interpretation of the twelve realms associated with Wang Yangming and underscoring Guizhou’s influence on the development of Yangming’s thought and its significant cultural legacy.
Divided into three main sections—”Getting Close to Wang Yangming,” “Inquiry into Twelve Realms,” and “The Wang Family Across the Seas”—the book details various sites of historical and cultural importance, such as Xinglong Book Wall, Pingyue’s Quiet Thoughts, Dragon Field Enlightenment, and more, encompassing scenic and cultural landmarks across Guiyang, Bijie, QianDongNan Miao and Dong Autonomous Prefecture, and QianNan Buyi and Miao Autonomous Prefecture.
In the preface to the book, Chen Lai, the director of the Institute of Chinese Studies at Tsinghua University, remarks, “Wang Yangming’s footprints in Guizhou, including places like Wanyiwow and Wenming Academy, have become significant cultural heritage and tourism resources. By preserving and utilizing these cultural sites, we can not only pass down and promote Wang Yangming’s ideas but also advance the development of cultural tourism in Guizhou and contribute to the local economy’s prosperity.”
With its dual focus on cultural dissemination and local perspective, “Yangming: Inquiry into Twelve Realms” presents a blend of engaging writings and imagery. It includes a “Colorful Secret Realm Guide” highlighting Guizhou’s unique attractions, festivals, and cultural elements. This practical travel aspect allows readers to deepen their understanding of the relationship between Wang Yangming and Guizhou while immersing themselves in the province’s captivating charm.
