Guide to Temple and Cemetery of Confucius and Kong Family Mansion in Qufu

Qufu, located in Shandong Province, China, is a city rich in history and culture. It is the hometown of Confucius (Kong Fuzi) and his descendants, and houses one of the most significant cultural sites in China - the Temple and Cemetery of Confucius and Kong Family Mansion. This guide will provide an overview of this historic site, its history, architectural features, and practical information for tourists.

History

The Temple and Cemetery of Confucius was first built during the Qin Dynasty (221-207 BC) but has undergone several restorations and expansions over the centuries, with the largest renovation taking place during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). The Kong Family Mansion was built around 5 miles south of the temple complex, serving as the ancestral home of Confucius’s descendants.

Temple and Cemetery of Confucius

Main Hall

The main hall, also known as the “Donghua Dian,” is the largest and most significant building in the temple complex. Constructed during the Song Dynasty (960-1279), it houses the spirit tablet of Confucius. The hall’s structure features an impressive three-tiered wooden eave system and intricate carvings on its beams and pillars.

Cemetery of Confucius

The cemetery, located just north of the temple, is home to over 100,000 tombs belonging to Confucius’s family and disciples. The main tomb of Confucius is covered by a mound of earth called “Tongbei,” with a stone stele placed at its peak. Adjacent to the main tomb is the “Tangyong Pavilion,” which holds more than 400 ancient bronze vessels, musical instruments, and jade artifacts.

Other Notable Buildings

• Kaicheng Hall: A hall dedicated to Confucius’s disciples, where their spirit tablets are housed.
• Hall of Supreme Harmony: The largest wooden structure in the world, housing the “Jade Tablet” - a jade slab containing the teachings of Confucius.
• Jiayin Garden: A tranquil garden featuring pavilions, bridges, and ancient trees.

Kong Family Mansion (Kongfu)

The Kong Family Mansion is located approximately 5 miles south of the Temple and Cemetery of Confucius. It serves as a museum showcasing the lives and culture of the Kong family over generations. The mansion’s architectural style combines elements from the Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties.

Main Hall

The main hall, known as “Fushen Dian,” is the most impressive building in the mansion complex. It houses a wooden statue of Confucius and his wife, Lady Ji, as well as displays of ancient artifacts and documents related to the Kong family.

Other Notable Buildings

• Zixuan Hall: A hall housing an extensive collection of calligraphy and paintings by members of the Kong family.
• Hall of Literature: A library containing thousands of ancient books, scrolls, and manuscripts.
• Confucius Memorial Archway: The south gate of the mansion, built during the Qing Dynasty to commemorate Confucius’s contributions to Chinese culture.

Practical Information for Tourists

Opening Hours

Temple and Cemetery of Confucius: 08:00 - 17:30 (April to October); 08:00 - 16:30 (November to March) Kong Family Mansion: 08:30 - 17:30 (April to October); 08:30 - 16:30 (November to March)

Admission Fees

Temple and Cemetery of Confucius: RMB 95 (peak season); RMB 70 (off-peak season) Kong Family Mansion: RMB 40 Combined ticket for both sites: RMB 120 (peak season); RMB 85 (off-peak season)

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn seasons, when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Getting There

Qufu can be reached by train or bus from major cities like Jinan, Beijing, Shanghai, and Taiyuan. The Temple and Cemetery of Confucius and Kong Family Mansion are located within walking distance of each other in downtown Qufu.