Er Di Academy

Er Di Academy

元朗锦田二帝书院 (Yuen Long Kam Tin Yeh Di College)

Historical Attractions Shenzhen China | 21.14km from downtown

Nestled near Shenzhen, this ancient site blends Confucian learning with temple worship amid rice fields. Explore traditional architecture, join calligraphy contests, and hang wishes on a wisdom tree—a living link to Hong Kong’s cultural roots.

Location & Transport

Er Di Academy sits in the tranquil village of Shui Tau Tsuen in Kam Tin, Yuen Long, Hong Kong. This hidden gem lies near the border with Shenzhen, making it a perfect day trip from mainland China. To reach Er Di Academy, take the Shenzhen-Hong Kong cross-border bus to Yuen Long, then transfer to minibus 73 or 74 (tell the driver “Kam Tin Er Di” and they’ll know). Alternatively, ride the MTR to Yuen Long Station and hop on a taxi for a 15-minute drive through rice fields and water buffalo farms.

Natural Scenery

Surrounded by lush paddy fields and traditional Lingnan houses, Er Di Academy feels like a window into old Cantonese life. During spring, you’ll see farmers planting rice, while winter brings golden harvests. A small canal runs beside the academy, where dragon boat teams practice on festival days. Keep an eye out for herons nesting in the trees—locals believe they’re guardians of this cultural site.

Cultural Heritage

Er Di Academy has been a spiritual and educational hub since 1785. The name “Er Di” honors two deities: Wenchang (god of literature) and Guan Yin (god of loyalty and fortune). Students once studied Confucian texts here, and today you can still see original wooden carvings of dragons and phoenixes. Unlike typical temples, this spot blends worship with learning—a unique mix of tradition and knowledge. The academy’s courtyard hosts annual calligraphy contests, where kids compete to write characters on giant rice paper.

Architectural Charm

The main hall of Er Di Academy features classic Chinese architecture: a curved roof decorated with glazed porcelain tiles, intricate wooden beams, and stone lion statues guarding the entrance. Notice the “bat” motifs carved above doors—they symbolize blessings (since “bat” sounds like “fu” in Chinese). Inside, a centuries-old altar holds statues of Wenchang and Guan Yin, flanked by lanterns donated by local families generations ago. The walls are lined with steles recording donations from overseas Chinese communities.

Practical Tips

Hours: Open daily 9 AM–5 PM (free entry).
Tours: Free guided tours (in Cantonese) at 11 AM and 2 PM. English guides available by reservation.
Souvenirs: Buy hand-painted silk fans or mooncakes shaped like Wenchang’s writing brush at the gift shop.
Food: Try “tai chai” (vegetarian rice) at nearby Village Cafe, or join a cooking class to make traditional Hong Kong snacks.

Immersive Experience

Visiting Er Di Academy feels like stepping into a time machine. You’ll hear elders playing mahjong under banyan trees, smell incense wafting from the altar, and see children practicing lion dance moves. On lunar New Year’s Eve, the whole village gathers here for a lantern parade, lighting up the ancient courtyard with red glow. Don’t miss the chance to write a wish on a bamboo slip and hang it on the “wisdom tree”—a modern twist on an ancient custom.

This living museum isn’t just about looking—it’s about feeling how education and tradition shaped Chinese communities. Whether you’re a history buff or a curious traveler, Er Di Academy offers a deep dive into Hong Kong’s soul.

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