the-temple-of-confucius

Temple of Confucius: Complete Visitor's Guide

The Temple of Confucius, with over 700 years of history, stands as China's second-largest Confucian Temple and served as the highest educational institution during the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Built following the principle of "Temple on the left, College on the right," this historic site offers a peaceful retreat from Beijing's bustling streets.

Why Visit

  • Best-preserved imperial college in China
  • Historical significance as ancient China's highest educational institution
  • Home to precious cultural relics including the Qianlong Stone Classics
  • Unique architectural features including the only glazed tile archway built for education in Beijing
  • Peaceful environment away from typical tourist crowds
Temple of Confucius main entrance view

Recommended Route (1-2 hours)

Main Path

  1. Xianshi Gate (Main Entrance)
  2. Imperial Graduates Memorial Tablets
  3. Dacheng Gate
  4. Dacheng Hall
  5. Qianlong Stone Classics
  6. Taixue Gate
  7. Glazed Tile Archway
  8. Biyong Hall
  9. Imperial College Exhibition
  10. Golden List Exhibition
  11. Jixian Gate (Exit)
Recommended route map of Temple of Confucius

Key Attractions

1. Imperial Graduates Memorial Tablets

  • Contains names of 51,624 imperial graduates
  • Inscriptions from Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties
  • Features famous historical figures like Lin Zexu and Li Hongzhang

2. Dacheng Hall

  • Main hall for worshipping Confucius
  • Principal ceremonial building
  • Historical site for imperial ceremonies
  • Features important architectural elements

3. Qianlong Stone Classics

  • Also known as "Stone Classics of the Qianlong Period"
  • Best-preserved Confucian stone classics in China
  • 189 stone tablets with classical texts

4. Glazed Tile Archway

  • Only educational glazed tile archway in Beijing
  • Features imperial calligraphy from Emperor Qianlong
  • Associated with traditional "Carp Jumping Dragon Gate" story

5. Biyong Hall

  • Main building of Imperial College
  • Emperor's lecture hall
  • Features Emperor Qianlong's throne
  • Surrounded by a moat

Visitor Information

Opening Hours

  • 9:00 - 17:00
  • Closed on Mondays
  • Last entry: 16:00

Admission

  • Regular: ¥30
  • Students: ¥15
  • Seniors (60+): Free
  • First 200 visitors on Wednesdays: Free (reservation required)

Guided Tours

  • Free guided tours available at 10:00 and 14:00 daily
  • Volunteer guides provide detailed historical context

Cultural Activities

Collection Stamps

  • Special postcard stamp collection activity
  • 9 different stamps located throughout the complex
  • Postcards form a map of the Imperial College when combined
  • Popular activity for families with children
Temple of Confucius architectural details

Transportation

By Metro

  • Line 5: Yonghegong Station (Exit G)
  • Walking distance: 500 meters

Nearby Attractions

  1. Yonghegong Lama Temple
  2. Wudaoying Hutong
  3. Jianchang Hutong
  4. Guijie Food Street

Dining Options

Traditional Restaurants Nearby

  1. Sanyuan Meyuan
  2. Chabing Zhai
  3. Kaorouwan
  4. Yonghegong Fried Chicken Shaobing

Essential Tips

  1. Best Visiting Time

    • Morning hours for better lighting
    • Weekdays to avoid crowds
    • Autumn for beautiful ginkgo trees
  2. Photography Spots

    • Confucius statue with Dacheng Gate background
    • Architectural details using depth perspective
    • Biyong Hall with fountain foreground
    • Stone classics gallery
    • Ancient ginkgo trees
  3. Cultural Experience

    • Visit the cultural creative store before entering the Stone Classics Gallery
    • Collect stamps on commemorative postcards
    • Observe traditional architecture details
    • Experience ancient educational system exhibits

Seasonal Highlights

Autumn Views

  • Golden ginkgo trees create stunning photo opportunities
  • Perfect weather for outdoor exploration
  • Best season for architectural photography