Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River Scenic Area
The Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River Scenic Area, a vibrant cultural and historical hub in Nanjing, merges ancient Confucian heritage with the poetic charm of the Qinhuai River. Dating back to the Eastern Jin Dynasty (4th century), this UNESCO-recognized site is renowned for its traditional architecture, bustling markets, and nighttime river cruises. Covering 4.69 square kilometers, it celebrates China’s scholarly traditions and Jiangnan cultural identity, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Historical Overview
The area’s origins trace to the Confucius Temple, built in 1034 during the Song Dynasty to honor the philosopher. Over centuries, it evolved into a cultural epicenter, housing the Jiangnan Examination Hall (1368–1905), where imperial civil service exams were held. The Qinhuai River, once a center of commerce and entertainment, inspired countless poets and artists. Key milestones include the 1985 restoration of the temple complex, the 2010 UNESCO "Cultural Landscape" designation, and its role as a backdrop for the 2019 Nanjing Peace Forum.
Structural Layout
The site follows a water-and-land axis with three zones:
Confucian Heritage Zone: Centered on the Confucius Temple, Confucius Square, and the Jiangnan Examination Hall (the world’s oldest exam center).
Qinhuai River Corridor: A 5-km stretch lined with willow trees, stone bridges, and historic docks, including the Wenchang Bridge and Zhanyuan Garden Bridge.
Fuzimiao Commercial District: A pedestrianized area featuring Ming-Qing style streets, food stalls, and the Qinhuai Art Gallery.
Major Attractions
Confucius Temple: A 10th-century sanctuary with a gilded statue of Confucius, incense burners, and stone tablets inscribed with Confucian teachings.
Jiangnan Examination Hall: A 17,000-sqm complex with 130 exam rooms, a "Hall of Great Achievements" (displaying imperial exam records), and a mock exam hall for visitors.
Zhanyuan Garden: A 17th-century classical garden with pavilions, rockeries, and a 400-year-old ginkgo tree, nicknamed the "Witness of Six Dynasties."
Wude Pavilion: A riverside stage for traditional Kunqu Opera and folk performances.
Qinhuai River Cruise: A 45-minute boat tour passing under 16 arched bridges, including the Zhaoyang Bridge and Pingjiang Bridge, with lantern-lit evenings.
Qinhuai Art Gallery: Hosts rotating exhibits of Jiangnan ink paintings, calligraphy, and Ming Dynasty porcelain.
Ugly Duckling Lane (Chou Ya Lu): A cobblestone alley lined with artisan workshops selling seal carvings, silk fans, and traditional snacks.
Suggested Itineraries
Classic Route (2–3 Hours):
Confucius Temple → Jiangnan Examination Hall → Zhanyuan Garden → Wude Pavilion → Qinhuai River Cruise.
Highlights: Core Confucian sites and a river cruise.
Extended Route (4–5 Hours):
Confucius Temple → Examination Hall → Zhanyuan Garden → Ugly Duckling Lane → Wenchang Bridge → Evening Lantern Show.
Highlights: Cultural immersion and nighttime ambiance.
Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
Confucius Temple → Examination Hall → Zhanyuan Garden → Qinhuai Art Gallery → Wude Pavilion → River Cruise → Evening Street Food Tour.
Highlights: In-depth exploration of history, art, and cuisine.
Ticket Purchase
Online: Book via the official WeChat mini-program or Ctrip (up to 3 days in advance).
On-Site: Tickets available at the Confucius Temple and Examination Hall entrances.
Prices:
Confucius Temple: ¥30.
Jiangnan Examination Hall: ¥25.
Zhanyuan Garden: ¥15.
Combined Ticket (3 sites): ¥60.
River Cruise: ¥80 (daytime), ¥100 (nighttime).
Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and seniors over 70.
Transportation
Subway: Line 3 to Fuzimiao Station (Exit 3), direct access to the scenic area.
Bus: Routes 1, 4, 7, 40, or 44 to Fuzimiao Stop.
Taxi: Direct to the Confucius Temple entrance.
Departure: Exit via Jiankang Road to connect with Xinjiekou shopping district or Laomendong Historic Area.
Best Time & Tips
Peak Hours: Avoid 6–8 PM; visit early (9 AM opening) or after 8:30 PM for lantern displays.
Crowds: Weekends and Chinese New Year are busiest; weekdays are ideal.
Weather: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) are best for river cruises.
Essentials:
Wear comfortable shoes (cobblestone paths).
Bring cash for street vendors (though many accept mobile payments).
Photography allowed (avoid flash in galleries).
Confucius Temple and Qinhuai River Scenic Spots Guide
