Nanjing Confucius Temple

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Spot Introduction

Nanjing Confucius Temple was originally built in the Song Dynasty (1034). Initially a place to worship and pay tribute to Confucius, it gradually developed into the largest Confucian temple complex in the Jiangnan region. As one of the four major Confucian temples in China, the Confucius Temple is renowned alongside the Confucius Temples in Beijing and Qufu, as well as the Jilin Confucian Temple, marking it as one of Nanjing’s most significant historical and cultural landmarks.

The entire complex covers an area of approximately 26,000 square meters and follows a traditional symmetrical layout along the central axis. Key structures include the Dacheng Hall, Mingde Hall, and Zunjing Pavilion. The Dacheng Hall, the core building, features a double-eaved gable roof and houses statues of Confucius and his disciples. The Mingde Hall, once a venue for ancient scholars to lecture, now serves as an exhibition hall displaying imperial examination culture. The Zunjing Pavilion holds a vast collection of precious Confucian classics.

The Confucius Temple stands not only as a tribute to Confucius but also as a significant testament to China’s ancient imperial examination culture. The adjacent Jiangnan Gongyuan was the largest examination hall in ancient China, accommodating over 20,000 candidates during its peak. This historic site has produced over 800 top scholars and 100,000 successful candidates, serving as a crucial historical witness to China’s ancient talent selection system.

The scenic area also encompasses the Qinhuai River scenic belt, known as “China’s First Historic and Cultural River.” Its banks are lined with numerous historic buildings and former residences of famous individuals. At night, the Qinhuai River is illuminated, with boats cruising along, recreating the prosperous scene of “Ten Miles of Qinhuai.”

As Nanjing’s cultural business card, the Confucius Temple attracts millions of visitors each year. It is not only a vital window into Chinese traditional culture but also the best place to experience Nanjing’s city charm. In 1988, the Qinhuai River scenic belt at the Confucius Temple was listed as a key national cultural relic protection site.

Must-Visit Attractions

  1. The Great Hall of Confucius Temple

    • Sacred Temple for Worship
    • Ancient Architectural Complex
    • Suggested Visiting Time: 60 minutes

  2. Jiangnan Gongyuan

    • Imperial Examination Hall
    • Historical Relic
    • Suggested Visiting Time: 90 minutes

  3. Qinhuai River Cruise

    • Waterway Tour
    • Night Scene Appreciation
    • Suggested Visiting Time: 45 minutes

  4. Lao Mendong

    • Food Street Area
    • Cultural and Creative Market
    • Suggested Visiting Time: 60 minutes

Visiting Suggestions

  1. Best Touring Route

    • Confucius Temple → Gongyuan
    • Lao Mendong → Cruise
    • Visit during the day and enjoy the scenery at night

  2. Visiting Schedule

    • Depart in the afternoon
    • Cruise in the evening
    • Shop at night

  3. Practical Tips

    • Wear comfortable shoes
    • Bring a camera
    • Reserve time for dining

Transportation Guide

  • Metro: Line 3, Confucius Temple Station
  • Bus: Tour Line 1, Tour Line 2
  • Walking: Walkable from the city center
  • Self-drive: Parking available
  1. Salted Duck
  2. Duck Blood and Vermicelli Soup
  3. Qinhuai Snacks
  4. Sweet Taro Seedlings

Special Reminders

  1. Visit during off-peak hours
  2. Wear comfortable shoes
  3. Bring a camera
  4. Check the weather
  5. Enjoy the beautiful night scenery
  6. Book tickets ahead of time
  7. Carry small change
  8. Try the local food.