Confucius Temple-Qinhuai Scenic Area

The Confucius Temple-Qinhuai Scenic Area refers to the Qinhuai River area centered around the Confucius Temple, where the streets, alleys, residences, and historical sites along both banks form a continuous stretch. It has been a bustling and lively part of Nanjing since ancient times. The line "The swallows that skimmed by painted eaves in bygone days are dipping now among the humble homes' doorways" by Liu Yuxi describes this very place. The Wuyi Lane mentioned in the poem still lies hidden among the alleys near the Confucius Temple.

Exploring history along the river is the highlight of this area: The Dacheng hall of Confucius temple stands by the water, with a towering screen wall across the Pan pond in front; the nearby Jiangnan examination hall was the imperial testing site for provincial exams during the Ming and Qing dynasties, now replaced by the China imperial examination museum; Zhan garden and Egret isle park both originated from the mansion gardens of Xu Da's family, a founding general of the Ming dynasty—the former also houses the Taiping heavenly kingdom history museum; scattered along both banks within walking distance are historical sites like Meixiang tower (former residence of "Peach blossom fan" heroine Li Xiangjun), the well-preserved Zhonghua gate with its urn-shaped defense system, Wu Jingzi's residence (author of "The scholars"), and ancient ferry relics like Taoye crossing, easily connected into a historical walking trail.

Cuisine is also a signature feature of this area: "The eight Qinhuai delicacies" refer to sixteen famous dishes from eight time-honored snack restaurants, including Yongheyuan's crab-shell yellow sesame cakes and dried shrimp shreds, Qifangge's duck oil crispy cakes and sesame oil dried shreds, Jiangyouji's beef pot stickers, and Lianhu pastry shop's osmanthus-filled glutinous rice balls. The Confucius Temple area and Laomendong are lined with teahouses, snack shops, and various stores, offering plenty of opportunities to rest and grab a bite when tired, along with the chance to pick up some souvenirs.

The highlight comes after nightfall: board a painted boat from the pier in front of the Confucius Temple, listen to the guide while admiring the white walls and black tiles illuminated by riverside lanterns—this is the classic "night mooring on the Qinhuai" experience. From Chinese New Year to the Lantern Festival each year, the Qinhuai River Lantern Festival (also known as the Jinling Lantern Festival), listed as a national intangible cultural heritage, takes place here. The Confucius Temple, Laomendong, and along the Qinhuai River are adorned with lanterns and decorations. "Visiting the Confucius Temple to see lanterns during New Year" remains a cherished tradition for Nanjing locals. Even on ordinary days, the area buzzes with cultural temple fairs, food festivals, and other celebrations, offering unique surprises in different seasons.