Kegong Archway in Lijiang Old Town

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🏯 Highlights of Ke Gong Archway in Lijiang Old Town

🕰️ Historical Background

Originally built during the Daoguang reign of the Qing Dynasty (1821–1850), Ke Gong Archway was erected to honor the “Three Scholars from One Family”—Yang Zhaolan and his brother Yang Zhaorong, who both passed the imperial exams during the Jiaqing era, and Yang Zhaorong’s son, Yang Shuocheng, who succeeded during Daoguang’s time.

The structure was destroyed in a fire in 1944 and rebuilt in 1947 to commemorate the 60th anniversary of both the Jinshi (advanced scholar) and Gongshi (provincial exam) achievements of local literati.

Ke Gong Archway is a symbol of Lijiang’s transition to formal Chinese administration (“Gaitu Guiliu” in 1723) and reflects the flourishing of Han culture in the region. Over the span of 180 years, the area produced more than 60 provincial scholars and 7 national scholars, a rare accomplishment in northwest Yunnan.

🏛️ Architecture and Cultural Significance

Structure:
The current archway stands approximately 12 meters tall and is built entirely of timber in a traditional three-tier design. The central plaque reads “Ke Gong Fang” (科贡坊), and the base features pillars engraved with “CAMC 1939″—a reference to its rebuilding era.

Cultural Meaning:
It embodies the Naxi people’s deep reverence for Confucianism, education, and service to the nation. The archway is often hailed as a “living relic of imperial exam culture in northwest Yunnan.”

Nearby Heritage Sites:

• The “Three Scholars Courtyard”, once the Yang family’s ancestral home

• The former residence of He Gengji, another notable local scholar

🗺️ Visitor Information

Location:
40 Huangshan Lower Section, Lijiang Old Town—right at the junction of Sifang Street and Bar Street, making it a convenient stop on your walking tour.

Opening Hours:
Open to the public 24/7 with no entrance fee. The archway takes on a special charm under the evening lights, perfect for a quiet night stroll.

🧭 Recommended Nearby Attractions

• Sifang Street (1-minute walk): Catch a traditional Naxi circle dance from 6:30–8:30 PM

• Maiwandou Bridge (200 meters south): Explore the ruins of an ancient trading hub

💡 Tips for Immersive Experience

Touch the centuries-old engravings on the archway → Watch the tiers glow under lantern light → Imagine the scholars of old, stepping onto stone-paved roads for their journey to Beijing and a shot at glory in the imperial exams.

   
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