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Confucius Temple, Nanjing

Confucius Temple, Nanjing

Confucius Temple. Situated on the north bank of the Qinhuai River, consisting of 3 architectural complexes, the Confucius Temple (Fuzimiao) was originally built in 1034. It has been the center of culture, commerce and life for the citizens of the city since then. Today, the entire area around the temple consists of a series of tourist shops, snack bars, restaurants and entertainment arcades all done up in "Ming" and "Qing" style architecture.

The temple here is considered to be one of the best preserved of its type in China. During the Ming Dynasty the temple was expanded and became a school for children of the imperial court. The buildings on both sides of the Temple which are now small tourist shops were once individual study rooms for Confucian scholars.

The area is great fun and a very pleasant part of the city to walk around (the only pedestrian area in the city). It is particularly interesting in the evenings when a lively street market sets up in the district, and locals and tourists take part in the bargain hunting.

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