Nestled in the annals of ancient China’s educational history is the Guozijian, the foremost institution of higher learning. Established during the Sui Dynasty, this prestigious academy didn’t just cater to native students. From the lush Ryukyu Islands, now a part of Japan, to the neighboring Korean Peninsula and Vietnam, the institution welcomed a plethora of international scholars.
A particularly distinct element of the Guozijian was the “Ryukyu Academy,” established specifically for official students hailing from the Ryukyu Kingdom. The location, set in what would have been the backyard of the main academy, is rife with historical resonance even today. The Siye, a revered education officer and high-ranking scholar, called this space home. It also facilitated foreign students from Ryukyu in their academic endeavors and living accommodations.
The Ryukyuan students, also known as the Guansheng, weren’t ordinary learners. They hailed from the Ryukyu Kingdom’s elite class, often transitioning into crucial governmental roles upon returning home after their education. Historically, the Ryukyu Kingdom embarked on sending these students to China around 1392, during the Ming Dynasty. Over the years, and through to the Qing Dynasty, batches of students made this academic pilgrimage.
Visitors to Guozijian today can witness not just a mention of the Ryukyu Academy, but also a meticulous miniature replica, crafted from historical accounts, illustrating the academy’s layout including lecture halls and dormitories.
The tenure for these scholars underwent changes with time. While students during the Ming dynasty pursued a six-year academic course, it got truncated to three years during the Qing Dynasty. These students received unparalleled attention, with the Qing Dynasty even appointing dedicated teachers, known as jiaoxi, for the Ryukyu students. This dedication wasn’t limited to just academia. These students were recipients of extraordinary care – from essentials like food, clothing, and shelter to added amenities like pocket money, signifying a life that paralleled that of the upper echelons.
Beyond the confines of the classroom, the Ryukyu students were exposed to the broader cultural tapestry. Faculty members arranged trips, ensuring the students could not only appreciate the local landscapes but also find solace and curb their homesickness.
These scholars from Ryukyu were committed to their education, often showcasing academic prowess on par with their Chinese peers. Their active participation in significant cultural events, such as presenting poetry in honor of the Dowager Empress’ birthday, underscores their integration into the local fabric.
Modern explorations into Guozijian, particularly the Ryukyu Academy, have piqued interest internationally. Recent archaeological endeavors have unearthed remnants of the academy’s infrastructure, hinting at its historical grandeur. With records and paintings from the Qing Dynasty detailing the academy’s design, scholars and archaeologists globally are championing its restoration.
The importance of the Ryukyu Academy extends beyond mere architecture. Reviving it, as noted by the late Chinese scholar Luo Zhewen, is paramount for cultural preservation. It stands as a testament to historical international academic exchanges and symbolizes the intertwined destinies of nations.
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