Confucius was a great thinker in the Spring and Autumn period. Love (Ren), the rules of proper conduct (Li), filial piety (Xiao) and the doctrine of the mean (Zhongyong) are the four main topics of the moral teaching of Confucius. Over centuries, it was believed that his teachings constituted the basis for a harmonious family, community, group, state and society.

The Temple of Confucius in Beijing was first built by Kublai Khan in 1302 in the Yuan Dynasty, and was restored on several occasions during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

Covering a total area of 22,000 square meters, the temple makes up four courtyards. The principal structures include Gate of Ancient Teacher, Gate of Great Accomplishment, Hall of Great Accomplishment and Worship Hall. It was the Hall of Great Accomplishment where Confucius was worshipped. The front courtyard is taken up by the Pavilions for Stone Tablets, the Holy Kitchen, and the Hall of Vegetarian Diet etc. On either side of the courtyard, are arranged 198 stone tablets bearing 51,624 names of Advanced Scholars of the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties who passed the triennial imperial examinations.

Entry fee: 10 yuan

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