The Beijing Temple of Confucius
The Beijing Temple of Confucius is a short walk from the Lama Temple, through a charming side lane covered by decorative gates. It was built in 1302 and is dedicated to Confucius, the renowned philosopher, and teacher whose teachings influenced public and private life for generations.
The Beijing Temple, one of China's most well-known Confucius temples, previously conducted numerous extravagant events commemorating its namesake under the supervision of the emperor. The courtyard has 198 steles with inscriptions naming all 51,624 Confucian academics who completed the state's highest examinations after 1416 until discontinued in 1904.
The Hall of Great Achievements is a particular highlight (Dacheng Dian). It has several temples devoted to Confucius, his followers, and other Confucian scholars. Many historical musical instruments and other ceremonial artifacts use in the celebrations held on the huge terrace in front of the hall.
Niu Jie Qingzhen Si Mosque, erected in AD 995, is another religious building worth visiting for its beautiful façade (non-Muslims cannot enter). The Muslim quarter's oldest and largest mosque contains a minaret, a six-cornered moon observation tower, and two pavilions with many steles with Chinese and Arabic inscriptions.
Address: 15 Guozijian Street, Dongcheng, Beijing
