Travel through a thousand years of time to experience the wisdom of Confucianism: The Qufu Three Confucian Sites

Qufu, bearing the most dazzling star in the brilliant galaxy of Chinese civilization—the core area of Confucian culture, is home to the world-famous Qufu Three Confucian Sites: the Temple of Confucius, the Mansion of Confucius, and the Cemetery of Confucius. They are like a thick volume of history, quietly telling the story of Confucius and his descendants, and how Confucian thought has permeated the Chinese land for a millennium. The first thing that catches the eye is the awe-inspiring stone archway—the Jinsong Yuzhen Archway. This archway was built in the 17th year of the Jiajing era of the Ming Dynasty (1538), and despite the passage of time, it still maintains its former grace. The most eye-catching are the four lifelike unicorn beast statues standing on the throne, with their heads held high and majestic forms, symbolizing the sacred power of guarding knowledge, commonly known as 'Bi Tian Xie' or 'Chao Tian Hou'. The horizontal beam of the archway is engraved with the powerful and vigorous characters 'Jinsong Yuzhen', written by the calligrapher Hu Zongxian of the Ming Dynasty. The font is elegant and lively, as if it could embody the profound influence of Confucius's thoughts within the strokes of the characters. Stepping onto the bluestone path and passing through the Taihe Yuanqi Archway, it feels like entering a hall that condenses a millennium of Chinese culture, where every brick and tile carries the teachings of Confucian ethics, allowing visitors to silently comprehend the noble sentiments of 'benevolence, righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and faith' and the gentlemanly qualities of 'gentleness, kindness, respectfulness, thriftiness, and modesty' in their hearts. Walking slowly along the imperial path paved with bluestone, you will come to the magnificent Shengshi Gate. After the expansion in the 12th year of the Hongzhi era of the Ming Dynasty and the renovation and renaming in the 8th year of the Yongzheng era of the Qing Dynasty, this gate was officially named 'Shengshi Gate' by Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty, to highlight the lofty praise for Confucius as 'a sage of the times', implying that Confucius's thoughts and wisdom can meet the needs of every era. Stepping into the Dacheng Hall, the statue of Confucius stands tall and imposing. He is dressed in a vermillion robe, holding a ceremonial jade tablet, with a serene and wise demeanor. Surrounding him are the portraits and memorial tablets of disciples and famous Confucians throughout the ages, indicating the transmission of Confucian teachings through generations. Qufu Three Confucian Sites