A statue of Wang Yangming in Yuyao city, Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province [Photo/WeChat account: nbfb0574]

Wang Yangming (1472–1529) was a Chinese statesman, general, and Neo–Confucian philosopher born in Yuyao city, Ningbo.

Wang was a leading critic of the orthodox Neo–Confucianism espoused by Zhu Xi (1130–1200). He is perhaps best known for his doctrine of the "unity of knowing and acting," which can be interpreted as a denial of the possibility of weakness of will. 

Ningbo has long been committed to the research, promotion, and dissemination of Wang Yangming's ideas.

In recent years, the city has rebuilt the Former Residence of Wang Yangming and constructed several landmarks to commemorate the local dignitary, including Zhongtian Pavilion and Yangming Park.

Oct 31 marks Wang's 547th birthday. Every year, a series of cultural activities are held in Ningbo to celebrate the occasion.