Let’s step back to 1302. The Beijing Temple of Confucius was built then during the Yuan Dynasty. Emperor Chengzong ordered its construction.
The Beijing Temple of Confucius is not just any temple. It is the second-largest Confucian temple in China. Only the one in Confucius’s hometown of Qufu is larger.
Imagine imperial officials from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. They gathered here to pay respects to Confucius. This tradition lasted until the Xinhai Revolution. From 1981 to 2005, part of the Capital Museum’s art collection was housed here. The temple stands on Guozijian Street. It is near the Imperial Academy.
The temple complex features four courtyards. They align along a central axis. The Gate of the Late Master welcomes you first. Next, you will find the Gate of Great Accomplishment. Then, the Hall of Great Accomplishment stands proudly. Finally, there is the Hall for Admiration of the Sage.
Inside the Beijing Temple of Confucius, 198 stone tablets line the front courtyard. These tablets record the names of over 51,624 jinshis. Jinshis were advanced scholars from the Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.
There are also 14 stone stele pavilions. These pavilions hold historical documents from late imperial China. These date back to the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Don’t miss the carved stone drums. These drums are reproductions of early Zhou models. The Qianlong Emperor of the Qing Dynasty commissioned them. Find these drums inside the Gate of Great Accomplishment. The Hall of Great Perfection holds a large collection of ancient Chinese musical instruments. A central shrine to Confucius stands here too.
Look for the carving of “two flying dragons playing with a pearl among the clouds.” This image is rare in Confucius temples. Emperors usually reserved it for themselves. The temple also has stone steles. They contain the Thirteen Confucian Classics. The city of Jintan in Jiangsu Province presented these to the temple.
Notice the old trees within the Beijing Temple of Confucius. One cypress tree is particularly famous. It is known as the “Touch-Evil Cypress”. Folklore has made it famous. A Ming-era story says a corrupt official passed by. The tree knocked off his hat. People then imagined the tree could distinguish good from evil.
Today, the Beijing Temple of Confucius remains a serene place. It offers a glimpse into China’s rich history. Take a moment to appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. Remember the scholars, emperors, and traditions that have shaped this temple.