Meeting old days at the Confucian Temple

The cool and limpid Qinhuai River winds its way serenely through quaint terraces and towers, sending out the antique and unique flavor of Nanjing.

Qinhuan River at dusk

An Old Story Teller

Over the last millennium, the Confucian Temple has witnessed the prosperity of this place, and also has survived invaders’ destruction. Embraced by a ceaseless stream that flows from ancient times and old lush willows, the internationally renowned majestic complex reveals the invaluable legacy it has left to the people of this city.

The Confucian Temple night scene

The Confucian Temple is dotted with traditional delicacies from numerous stores. In olden days, people used to come from afar to pray for safety on major holidays; they used to wander in the alleys where we stand. Now through the sophisticated architectural style of the Ming and Qing dynasties and the well-preserved gaily-painted pleasure-boat, we can see an old picture of the Confucian Temple.

The “Qinhuai Household” Plaque

A Place for Recalling Memories

Though it is now a modern scenic spot, visiting the Confucian Temple itself has already become a custom, as generations have formed precious cultural customs here. During the Spring Festival, families come to the Confucian Temple together to relish the festive atmosphere.

The only remedy for nostalgia is a sense of belonging, so the overriding meaning of the Spring Festival is the reunion with one’s long separated hometown. It’s safe to say that the Confucian Temple leaves a print on every Nanjing person. Wherever they go, the image of it will stand in their mind as a symbol of this city; whenever they come back, every piece of it can evoke their sweet memory.

The well-known festive lantern

Great changes have taken place at the Confucian Temple since my first visit, but because I have been to the Confucian Temple dozens of times during my twelve years in Nanjing, I have never felt a stranger. Even if I’m miles away from here, it will always be the place where I crossed the bustling alley with a delicate lotus lantern in hand.

The magnificent front wall