Beijing Confucius Temple and Guozijian

The Confucius Temple was built in 1302 and is the second largest in China after the one at Qufu, a quiet complex of halls and courtyards shaded by cypresses said to be seven hundred years old. In the courtyards stand 198 stone stelae carved with the names of more than fifty thousand men who passed the highest imperial examinations between the thirteenth and twentieth centuries, an extraordinary record of the system that selected China's officials. Next door, the Guozijian was the imperial academy, the highest educational institution in the empire, with a hall where emperors lectured. The street outside keeps its paifang arches and is one of the calmest in central Beijing.

What to look for

• The name stelae - 198 stones listing successful exam candidates over six centuries.
• The ancient cypresses - trees in the courtyards said to be seven hundred years old.
• The Guozijian - the imperial academy hall where emperors lectured.
• Guozijian Street - the quiet lane with surviving ceremonial arches.

When to go

April to May and September to October for the mildest weather; the site is quiet compared with its neighbour the Lama Temple. Mornings are calmest. The complex closes on some Mondays.

Practical notes

The temple is calm and low-key rather than spectacular, which is either the appeal or a disappointment. English interpretation is limited. Combining with the Lama Temple next door is standard, and the contrast in crowds is stark.

Nearby

The Lama Temple is a short walk east; the hutongs run south.