Jiangyin Confucian Temple

Introducing Jiangyin Confucian Temple

The Jiangyin Confucian Temple was first built during the Qianxing and Tiansheng periods (1022-1023) in the early Northern Song Dynasty, nearly a thousand years ago. After the Wanli reign of the Ming Dynasty, the temple's specifications surpassed those of the Jiangsu Provincial Educational Administration. During the Qianlong reign of the Qing Dynasty, the temple stood on one side, with a nearly 2,000-meter-long wall and 378 mu of land, making it one of the few sacred sites of Confucianism in Jiangnan. Due to wars throughout the ages, the temple was destroyed and rebuilt several times. The existing buildings date from the sixth year of the Tongzhi reign to the fifth year of the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty, costing 46,670 taels of silver. All but the Zunjing Pavilion were restored to their original state during the reconstruction.

In order to protect the excellent cultural heritage of the motherland and promote the traditional Chinese spirit, in 1995 the Jiangyin Municipal People's Government allocated a special fund of more than 5 million yuan to comprehensively restore the Confucian Temple. In October of the following year, the Jiangyin Confucian Temple, which was listed as a cultural relic protection unit in Jiangsu Province, was opened to the public with a brand new look.

As a base for patriotic education, the Jiangyin Confucian Temple is open to the public year-round and free of charge, receiving an average of over 100,000 visitors annually. The temple hosts exhibitions year-round in its east and west wings, and public cultural activities on the platform, corridors, and Minglun Hall. The temple also hosts annual New Year's Garden Party, the Opening Ceremony of Writing, and the Jiangyin Folk Customs Festival, all of which are very popular with residents.

Climate and best time to travel

Climate: Subtropical monsoon climate

Best time to travel: All seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended places to visit:

Lingxing Gate

The first gate at the southern end of the existing Confucian Temple is called Lingxing Gate. Lingxing, also known as Tiantianxing, is the legendary deity overseeing the celestial fields. Ancient people offered sacrifices to Lingxing first when offering sacrifices to heaven, praying for a good harvest. Lingxing Gate was first built in the sixth year of Emperor Renzong of the Song Dynasty's Tiansheng reign (1028). Because Confucianism, advocated by Confucius, was revered as the national philosophy by successive rulers, later generations transferred the name "Lingxing" to the gate of the Confucian Temple, signifying respect for Confucius as they respected heaven. The restored Lingxing Gate of the Jiangyin Confucian Temple measures 13.5 meters from east to west and 6.6 meters high. It features six hewn stone pillars, each designed to reach the sky. Vermilion railings adjoin the walls on the left and right, and a stele reading "All civil and military officials, regardless of rank, dismount here" stands beside each wall. The stone pillars are framed by stone claspers at the front and back, and the three characters "Lingxing Gate" are inscribed in seal script on both sides of the lintel. The upper level of the lintel is engraved with images of a moon rabbit and a golden crow, while the reverse side features the characters "sun" and "moon," symbolizing Confucius' virtues as radiant as the sun and the moon. Historical records indicate that the Lingxing Gate pillars of the Qufu Confucius Temple were originally made of wood until 1754, the 19th year of the Qianlong Emperor's reign in the Qing Dynasty, when they were converted to stone. However, the Lingxing Gate of the Jiangyin Confucian Temple has had stone pillars since at least the Ming Dynasty, providing ample evidence for the claim that the Jiangyin Confucian Temple was "larger than those in other prefectures and counties."

According to the Jiangyin County Chronicles of the Qianlong Emperor's reign, Lingxing Gate was originally located in the south, along with the Confucian Temple Stone Archway, the Golden Voice and Jade Resonance Archway, the Jade Belt River, the Temple's Left and Right Archways (the eastern one was called "Virtue Matches Heaven and Earth," the western one "Dao Guan Gu Jin"), a screen wall, and the Kuixing Stone, connecting to Zhongjie Street. Later, for various reasons, the buildings south of Lingxing Gate were successively demolished, and the Jade Belt River was filled in. When Lingxing Gate was rebuilt in 965, it was moved several dozen meters north of its original location to accommodate practical conditions.

Dachengmen

Dacheng Gate, also known as Ji Gate, is the main gate leading to the Dacheng Hall, the main building of the Confucian Temple. Known as the "Yimen" in the early Song Dynasty, it was renamed Dacheng Gate in 1104, after the Dacheng Hall. Construction of the Jiangyin Confucian Temple began in 1398, the 30th year of the Hongwu reign of Emperor Taizu of the Ming Dynasty. The gate is 14 meters wide and 10 meters deep, with a stone-carved Sumeru pedestal at its base. In ancient times, it was only opened during grand ceremonies to worship Confucius or for the emperor's passing. Ordinary people would open the two flanking gates, Jinsheng and Yuzhen.

During its restoration in 1997, the temple was modeled after the Confucian Temple in Qufu. Above the main gate hangs a vertical plaque inscribed with the inscription "Dacheng Gate" by Emperor Yongzheng of the Qing Dynasty. On either side of the gate hang couplets in his own calligraphy: "The foresighted and the prophetic set the standard for eternal morality; the utmost sincerity and holiness flow in the same direction with the two halls." The left and right wings of Dacheng Gate, each four bays wide and six bays deep, served as shrines for prominent officials and local sages during the Qianlong period. They now sell cultural goods such as coins, calligraphy and paintings, the "Four Treasures of the Study," and tourist souvenirs.

Recommended play time: one day

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

8:00~19:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Jiangyin Confucian Temple

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Jiangyin Confucian Temple, dedicated to Confucius, is one of the most historically significant sites in Jiangsu. It honors Confucius, the great philosopher, educator, and cultural icon. The temple represents the core of Confucian ideals that have shaped Chinese society for over two millennia.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Jiangyin Confucian Temple is located in Jiangyin, Jiangsu Province. It can be easily accessed by taxi, and there are bus routes available from the city center. Walking from nearby public transport stations is also an option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The temple is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon on weekdays to avoid crowds, especially during public holidays.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is approximately 20 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via local online platforms. It's advisable to check for discounts during special events or off-season periods.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary, but during peak travel times (e.g., holidays), it's a good idea to book tickets at least 1-2 days ahead to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the temple fully, including the main hall, the gardens, and the various exhibits on Confucian teachings.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

The must-see highlights include the main hall with statues of Confucius, the peaceful temple gardens, and the historical exhibits showcasing Confucian philosophy and teachings.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides in English and Chinese may be available at the entrance for those interested in a more detailed exploration of Confucian teachings.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The temple’s front courtyard offers excellent photo opportunities with a panoramic view of the main hall. The surrounding gardens also provide serene backdrops for photography, especially in the early morning light.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance and explore the main hall and Confucius statues. Then, visit the surrounding temple gardens and finish by walking through the exhibits on Confucian philosophy and its cultural significance.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits and light shows are not available. The temple is best experienced during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architecture and peaceful surroundings.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The temple can be crowded on weekends and during public holidays. The least crowded times are weekday mornings or late afternoons, especially outside peak tourist seasons.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are toilets and rest areas available for visitors. However, food and beverage facilities are limited inside the temple. A small souvenir shop is available where you can purchase Confucius-related items and traditional Chinese crafts.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The temple is accessible for elderly and disabled visitors with ramps and flat paths. It is also suitable for children, with open spaces for walking and enjoying the gardens.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Both cash and mobile payment methods (like WeChat Pay and Alipay) are accepted at the temple, including for entrance fees and souvenirs.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants and cafes near the temple, offering traditional Chinese meals, including local Jiangsu dishes. Some restaurants serve vegetarian and vegan options as well.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan food options are available at some nearby restaurants. Halal food options may be limited but can be found in certain parts of Jiangyin or at larger chain restaurants in the city.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Nearby accommodations include mid-range hotels such as the Jiangyin Hotel and budget-friendly options close to the temple area. There are also several inns and guesthouses in Jiangyin that offer a more local experience.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the Jiangyin Yangtze River Bridge, one of the key landmarks in Jiangsu, as well as the Zhenjiang Ancient City, which is an easy day trip to explore more cultural and historic sites in the region.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There is a small souvenir shop inside the temple, where visitors can purchase Confucian-related books, traditional Chinese artifacts, and locally made handicrafts such as pottery and calligraphy brushes.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting the temple, you can take a taxi or use local buses to continue your trip around Jiangyin or explore nearby cities like Wuxi or Zhenjiang. The local transportation network offers easy access to other popular tourist destinations in Jiangsu Province.