Shaoxing Lanting - A place from the book.

Shaoxing Lanting, also known as Lanting Scenic Area, is located in Keqiao District, Shaoxing City, Zhejiang Province, China. It is a famous tourist attraction that integrates natural scenery, historical culture, and calligraphy art. Here is a detailed introduction to Shaoxing Lanting: ### Historical Background Lanting is famous for the literary gathering held by the calligrapher Wang Xizhi during the Eastern Jin Dynasty. In 353, Wang Xizhi invited 41 literati and calligraphers to a banquet at Lanting and created the "Lanting Preface," which is considered the "First Running Script in the World." This calligraphy work not only has high artistic value, but also expresses the author's feelings about the passage of time and the impermanence of life, making it a masterpiece that has been passed down through generations. ### Scenic Features 1. **Lanting Architecture:** The architectural style of Lanting is simple and elegant, mainly based on the traditional Jiangnan garden style. Pavilions, towers, bridges, and flowing water create a beautiful picture scroll. 2. **Lanting Stele Forest:** This collection of steles features works by famous calligraphers throughout history, making it an important place for studying Chinese calligraphy art. 3. **Cursive Water Banquet:** This is a traditional activity at Lanting. Literati and calligraphers drink wine and write poems along the winding stream, recreating the elegant lifestyle of ancient literati. 4. **Wang Xizhi Memorial Hall:** The memorial hall displays replicas of Wang Xizhi's calligraphy works and related cultural relics, introducing his life and calligraphy art. 5. **Natural Scenery:** The environment surrounding Lanting is beautiful, with lush bamboo forests, clear streams, and tranquil lakes, making it a great place for tourists to relax and unwind. ### Cultural Significance Lanting is not only a scenic spot with beautiful natural scenery, but also a symbol of Chinese calligraphy art. Every year, a large number of calligraphy enthusiasts and tourists visit Lanting to learn and experience the charm of Chinese traditional culture. ### Tourist Information - **Opening Hours:** Generally from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, specific times may vary depending on the season. - **Ticket Price:** Ticket prices may vary depending on the season and activities. It is recommended to check the latest information before traveling. Shaoxing Lanting is an important historical and cultural heritage of China. It is of great value for understanding the lifestyle and calligraphy art of ancient Chinese literati.