Nanjing Confucius Temple-The Qinhuai River Scenic Area — Attraction in Nanjing City

Nestled on the picturesque north bank of the Qinhuai River, in Nanjing’s historic Qinhuai District

🕰️ Timing & Entry

Shops/restaurants: 10:00–22:00; temple complex: 08:00–21:00

Access to Temple premises and riverfront free, but access to Dacheng Hall & museums costs ~¥30/person

🏛️ Highlights

Dacheng Hall houses the largest Confucius statue and vibrant murals—an inspiring centerpiece

Historical gems: Lingxing Gate, Screen Wall, Kuixing Pavilion, Jiangnan Examination Hall (largest imperial exam hall)

River cruises along the scenic Qinhuai River add romantic vibes—especially in the evening, under lantern glow

Picturesque cobblestone streets lit by lanterns, surrounded by social and cultural hotspot

At night, the area transforms into a 🔥 lively scene with lantern-lit boats, performances, and bustling energy.

🍜 Tips & Local Finds

Food caution: Tourist traps are common—seek out local-favorite spots like Lotus Lake (wontons, sticky-rice), Aerospace Buns, or hidden gems like Wang Jianfa’s

Best times: Visit evenings for atmosphere; spring Lantern Festival brings the magnificent Qinhuai Lantern Fair—a must-see

Allocate 2–3 hours for temple, museum, river cruise, and souvenir stroll; more time if eating or exploring...

Many people will tell you that a trip to Nanjing is incomplete without a visit to the Confucius Temple at Fuzimao. They may be right but in my case, I guess I can be quite satisfied with an incomplete trip.

Don't get me wrong, the temple complex is impressive and ancient and certainly worthy of a visit. But the Temple street turned me off to the whole experience.

Not unusually in China (or anywhere, I suspect) a major tourist attraction brings souvenir shops, overpriced restaurants, hawkers and the like out of the woodwork. But in my view, Nanjing Temple Street takes first place in the tourist hassle sweepstakes.

In addition, fighting crowds to walk the street, fighting crowds to get a ticket, and fighting crowds inside the temple meant that for us, we were ready to leave before we arrived.

Pro Tip Word to the wise (from the not so)....arrive early, get photos early and avoid eating in the tourist area unless you enjoy paying more for lower...

Unlike thousands of other temples, this is a good one to see at night as it has lots of lights, dance performances, and a labyrinth of shops with souvenirs all around. Take a lot of pictures. Prepare yourself for crowds inside and outside this temple area. It's very popular! The Fuzi Miao area is a must for tourists to Nanjing. It has become the city's prime tourist attraction with souvenir shops and restaurants at every corner. Expect a ton of visitors as this is the quintessential Nanjing experience. A super busy and crowded place! I visited this area and it's too attractive and funny. Too many things to see! Too many restaurants and street food to try! Too many souvenirs to choose and buy! The traditional culture is well preserved here although there are many commercial activities including boat tours and traditional costumes hiring and phototaking. The place...