Confucius Temple (Nanjing)
Jiangsu Sheng
Nanjing Confucius Temple, also known as Nanjing Fuzimiao, is a renowned Confucian temple and former imperial examination hall located on the banks of the Qinhuai River in southern Nanjing. It serves as a major cultural and educational hub, historically significant as the site of China's first national highest institution of learning. The temple complex, dating mainly from the 19th century Qing dynasty with subsequent restorations, features traditional Chinese architecture including the Lingxing Gate and the Great Spirit Screen adorned with dragon motifs. The surrounding area is a lively pedestrian zone with shops, folk art exhibits, and access to painted boat cruises on the Qinhuai River, where traditional Chinese music is performed. The temple has been a center for Confucian study and worship for centuries and remains a popular tourist destination, officially recognized as a 5A open-style scenic spot in China. Visitors can explore the temple grounds, enjoy the vibrant nightlife along the river, and attend cultural events such as the Qinhuai Lantern Fair in the lunar new year.
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Tip: The Confucius Temple in Nanjing is open year-round, but summer months tend to be crowded with tourists. Winter visits offer the unique experience of the Qinhuai Lantern Fair during the first lunar month. It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance when possible, and consider taking a painted boat cruise on the Qinhuai River to fully appreciate the temple's scenic surroundings and traditional music performances. Visitors should check for any available discounts or group tickets and plan their visit to avoid peak hours for a more pleasant experience.
Interesting facts
- •Nanjing Confucius Temple was officially designated as the first 5A open-style scenic spot in China in 2010.
- •The temple area includes Jiangnan Gongyuan, the largest imperial examination hall during the Ming and Qing dynasties.
- •Painted boat cruises on the Qinhuai River feature traditional Chinese music performances.
- •The Great Spirit Screen in the temple is decorated with dragons, a symbol of imperial power and protection.
History
The site of Nanjing Confucius Temple dates back to the Jin dynasty (CE 317), when the Nanking Imperial University was founded nearby.
The temple itself was first constructed in CE 384 but was destroyed and rebuilt multiple times over the centuries, notably during the Song dynasty in CE 1034.
It served as an imperial university and examination hall through the Ming and Qing dynasties.
The current buildings mainly date from the 19th century Qing dynasty.
The temple lost state financial support after the 1911 revolution and was used as military barracks during the early 20th century.
Restoration efforts began in 1985, reviving the temple as a cultural and tourist landmark.
Place Guide
Lingxing Gate19th century
The main entrance gate to the Confucius Temple complex, known for its traditional architecture and symbolic significance as the gateway to learning and culture.
Great Spirit Screen19th century
A large decorative wall within the temple grounds adorned with dragon motifs, serving both aesthetic and symbolic protective functions.
Jiangnan GongyuanMing and Qing dynasties
Located near the temple, this was the largest imperial examination hall during the Ming and Qing dynasties, where scholars competed for official positions.
Qinhuai River Cruise
Visitors can take traditional painted boats along the Qinhuai River, enjoying scenic views of the temple area accompanied by Chinese traditional music.