Location & Transportation

Imperial Examination Hall sits within the Jingjiang Prince’s Palace compound in Guilin’s Xiushan District, nestled inside the Duxiu Peak · Wang City Scenic Area. To get there, take a taxi or bus to Zhonghua Road—the main entrance is easy to spot. If you’re coming from Guilin Liangjiang International Airport, it’s about a 40-minute drive. The palace itself is a short walk from downtown, so you can combine a visit with exploring other parts of Guilin.

Natural Scenery

Though Imperial Examination Hall is rooted in history, its setting is striking. The compound is surrounded by lush gardens, ancient trees, and traditional Chinese architecture. Nearby Duxiu Peak offers panoramic views of the city, making it a perfect spot for photos. The blend of nature and ancient structures creates a peaceful atmosphere, especially early morning or late afternoon when the light softens the stone walls.

Cultural Significance

This site was once the largest imperial examination hall in southern China during the Qing Dynasty. Over 5,500 tiny exam booths (called “hao she”) housed students who lived, ate, and slept while taking tests—all in less than 3 square meters of space! More than 500 scholars passed the exams here and became “jinshi” (doctors), including 4 top-scoring “zhuangyuan” (champions). Today, part of the hall has been restored to let visitors experience the grueling exam process firsthand.

Immersive Experience

At Imperial Examination Hall, tourists can try on traditional scholar’s robes and sit in replica booths to answer mock questions. Guides explain how students endured hours of writing with brushes and ink—no bathroom breaks! It’s a humbling reminder of the dedication required to succeed. Some exhibits even show ancient textbooks and tools used by candidates.

Facilities for Visitors

The site is very tourist-friendly. Tickets include entry to both the exam hall and the wider Jingjiang Prince’s Palace. English-speaking guides are available, and info boards explain historical details. There’s a small café where you can rest, and souvenir shops sell fun items like miniature exam booth models. Ramps and pathways make it accessible for wheelchairs too.

Tips for Your Visit

Plan for 1–2 hours to explore both the exam hall and the palace. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll walk on cobblestone paths. Spring and autumn are best—fewer crowds and mild weather. Don’t miss the nearby lift to Duxiu Peak’s summit for a bird’s-eye view of Guilin!

Whether you’re into history, architecture, or quirky cultural experiences, Imperial Examination Hall offers a unique peek into China’s scholarly past. It’s not just sightseeing—it’s stepping into a story of struggle, ambition, and the quest for knowledge.