The Confucius Temple Area（南京夫子庙）Travel Guide
Nov 12, 2024
by orient china travel
Nanjing Confucius Temple Area Travel Guide
1. Introduction
The Confucius Temple Area in Nanjing is located on the north bank of the Qinhuai River. It is a significant historical and cultural site that was originally built in 1034 and is one of the four major Confucius Temples in China. It was a place to worship and consecrate Confucius, the great philosopher and educator in ancient China. The temple complex has witnessed repeated damages and reconstructions over the years. Today, it is a complex of buildings in the architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties, including the Confucius Temple itself, the Jiangnan Gongyuan (the place of imperial examinations), and the Xue Gong (the imperial academy)4.
The Confucius Temple Area in Nanjing is located on the north bank of the Qinhuai River. It is a significant historical and cultural site that was originally built in 1034 and is one of the four major Confucius Temples in China. It was a place to worship and consecrate Confucius, the great philosopher and educator in ancient China. The temple complex has witnessed repeated damages and reconstructions over the years. Today, it is a complex of buildings in the architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties, including the Confucius Temple itself, the Jiangnan Gongyuan (the place of imperial examinations), and the Xue Gong (the imperial academy)4.
2. How to Get There
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- By Public Transport:
- Bus: You can take buses such as No. 1, 7, 31, 40, or 301. There are also tourism buses No. 2 and 4 that can take you to the Confucius Temple.
- Subway: Take Metro Line 3 and get off at Confucius Temple Station. After exiting the station, you can walk for a short distance to reach the area.
- By Taxi or Self-Driving: If you choose to travel by taxi or drive by yourself, you can follow the navigation to the Confucius Temple Area. However, be aware of the traffic conditions, especially during peak tourist seasons.
3. Tickets and Opening Hours
- Tickets: The Confucius Temple Area is free to enter. But for some specific attractions within the area, such as the Dacheng Hall and the Jiangnan Gongyuan (China Imperial Examinations Museum), you need to purchase separate tickets. The ticket prices for the Dacheng Hall is around 30 RMB, and for the China Imperial Examinations Museum is about 50 RMB35.
- Opening Hours: The area is generally open from 09:00 to 22:00 throughout the year3.
4. Main Attractions
- Dacheng Hall: It is 16.22 meters high and 28.1 meters wide, featuring a 1.5-meter-high pedestal. Inside the hall, there is the largest figure of Confucius in China, and a beautiful collection of 38 vivid panels made by various jade, gold and silver, detailing the life of Confucius. Outside the hall, you can see the bronze statue of Confucius and the white marble statues of his eight disciples4.
- Jiangnan Gongyuan (China Imperial Examinations Museum): It is a place where scholars once studied for the imperial civil service examinations. You can gain a fantastic insight into how ancient Chinese governments chose officials here. Now, it is a specialized museum on the imperial civil examinations system. Visitors also have the opportunity to take simulated exams and experience the joys and sorrows of the candidates4.
- The Screen Wall: On the south bank of the Qinhuai River is the longest screen wall in China, which is 110 meters long and piled with bricks34.
- Qinhuai River: The river flows in front of the Confucius Temple. Taking a cruise on the Qinhuai River is a great way to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the riverside and the ancient architecture. You can see the traditional architecture along the river, the ancient bridges, and the bustling nightlife of Nanjing.
5. Travel Tips
- Weather: Nanjing has a subtropical monsoon climate. It is advisable to check the weather forecast before your visit and bring appropriate clothing and rain gear if necessary.
- Crowds: The Confucius Temple Area is very popular among tourists, especially on weekends and public holidays. Be prepared for large crowds and plan your visit accordingly to avoid peak times if possible.
- Food: There are a variety of local snacks and restaurants in the area. You can try famous local delicacies such as duck blood soup with vermicelli, fried dumplings, and various pastries. But be careful when choosing food stalls and restaurants to ensure food safety.
- Shopping: The area is full of tourist shops selling traditional Chinese handicrafts, souvenirs, and local products. You can buy some unique gifts for your friends and family, but remember to bargain and compare prices.