Born in the Nanyang Prefecture (in today's Henan Province), Zhang Zhongjing (circa 150-219) was a master of medicine in ancient China. Many of his works on medicine still remain in use today. Zhang's Treatise on Febrile Diseases Caused by Cold and the Synopsis of Prescriptions of the Golden Chamber, for example, have been considered classical works of Chinese medicine for thousands of years. Zhang, who was known as the sage of medicine, was buried in Nanyang.

Zhang's tomb was later destroyed and the stele was buried in the tall grasses. Restored in the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), a memorial hall was set up in Zhang's honor. The plane of the memorial hall is square and the tomb is located in the center of the yard. The main hall, east and west side halls, lotus pond and guildhall surround the yard. The guildhall was originally the place where doctors from all over the country gathered together and discussed medical problems. On March 3 and September 9 every lunar calendar year, there is a party for the pilgrimage mission held at the guildhall that attracts an ever-increasing number of followers.