Beibei, Chongqing

The Former Site of the Western Academy of Sciences of China: A Sanctuary of Science and National Salvation in the Mountains of Chongqing

📸Photography 🏯Old Towns

Altitude

215m

Best Time

🌸 🍂

Ticket

Paid

ℹ️

About This Attraction

1.The Former Site of the Western: Academy of Sciences of China, located in Wenxingwan, Beibei District, Chongqing, sits quietly in the embrace of the majestic Jinyun Mountain and near the historic North Hot Spring. Unlike the bustling tourist spots in the city center, this site offers a profound sense of tranquility and history, shaded by towering banyan trees and Phoebe zhennan trees that filter the sunlight into a dappled play of shadows. It stands not merely as a collection of old buildings, but as a monument to the ideal of "saving the nation through science" during a tumultuous era of Chinese history.

Founded in 1930 by the visionary industrialist and educator Lu Zuofu, this institution was the first privately established natural science academy in China. Its creation was a bold move to shift the focus of scientific research and development from the coastal east to the vast, resource-rich, yet underdeveloped western hinterland. During the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, when the capital moved to Chongqing, Beibei became a sanctuary for intellectuals. The Academy became a hub for the nation's scientific elite, gathering geologists, biologists, and scholars who continued their research amidst the flames of war, turning this quiet corner into a "commune" for Chinese science.

The site covers an area of over 20,000 square meters and features a unique architectural ensemble that blends Chinese and Western styles. The most prominent structure is the Huiwang Building (also known as the Science Hall). Built in an eclectic style with green tiles and red pillars, it exudes a grand yet scholarly atmosphere. It once served as the main office and exhibition hall for the academy and now houses exhibits detailing the history of the institution. Another significant structure is the Geology Building, designed to resemble a massive rock, symbolizing geology as the "bedrock of industry" and reflecting the pragmatic spirit of the academy's founders.

2.Visitors can also explore the Old: Residence of Lu Zuofu, a simple and unadorned dwelling where the great industrialist lived and worked. It was here that many crucial decisions regarding the development of Beibei and the wartime transportation of strategic resources were made. The residence stands as a testament to Lu Zuofu's modest lifestyle and his immense dedication to the public good.

Today, the site serves as the Beibei Branch of the Chongqing Natural History Museum. It houses rare collections, including dinosaur fossils from the Sichuan Basin and specimens of pandas and other wildlife collected during the academy's early expeditions. Walking through the halls, one can almost feel the presence of the pioneering scientists who, decades ago, used this place as a base to explore and understand the natural world of western China.

✨ Why Visit Former Site of the Western Academy of Sciences of China

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Huiwang Building (Science Hall)

Admire this architectural masterpiece that blends Chinese and Western elements, serving as the historic heart of the academy and a symbol of scientific endeavor in wartime China.

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Lu Zuofu’s Old Residence

Visit the modest home of the "King of Shipping," Lu Zuofu, and gain insight into the life of the man who spearheaded the rural reconstruction of Beibei and the evacuation of national industries during the war.

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The Geology Building

See the unique building designed to look like a giant rock, representing the foundational role of geological science in national industrialization.

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Rare Fossil Collections

Explore the exhibits of the Chongqing Natural History Museum (Beibei Branch), featuring dinosaur fossils from the Jurassic period and other rare specimens collected by early scientists.

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Garden Atmosphere

Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the grounds, which are filled with ancient trees and lush vegetation, creating a scholarly and serene environment perfect for reflection.

Location & Nearby

📍 Beibei, Chongqing • 🏔️ 215m elevation

Frequently Asked Questions - Former Site of the Western Academy of Sciences of China Travel Guide

Where is the Former Site of the Western Academy of Sciences of China located?

It is located at No. 42 Wenxingwan, Beibei District, Chongqing Municipality, near the North Hot Spring Park and Jinyun Mountain.

Who founded the academy? It was founded in 1930 by Lu Zuofu, a renowned patriotic industrialist and educator often called the "King of Shipping" in China.

What is the architectural style of the buildings? The buildings feature a mix of Chinese and Western architectural styles (Eclectic), characterized by green tiles, red pillars, and stone structures.

Is it suitable for children? Yes, the natural history exhibits, including dinosaur fossils and animal specimens, are educational and interesting for children.

How much time should I plan for a visit? A visit typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to explore the historic buildings, the museum exhibits, and the surrounding gardens.

What else can I visit nearby? You can combine your visit with the nearby Lu Zuofu Memorial Hall, North Hot Spring, and Jinyun Mountain for a full day of culture and nature.

Why do you include Chinese characters and Pinyin in the descriptions for Former Site of the Western Academy of Sciences of China?

We provide the original Chinese names and Pinyin to make your travel smoother. Since English is rarely spoken in remote parts of Western China, you can easily show these Chinese names to local taxi drivers, hotel staff, or police when asking for help, or copy-paste them directly into Chinese navigation apps like Amap (高德地图) or Baidu Maps.