Temple of Confucius and Guozijian Museum

Beijing Confucius Temple covers an area of 22,000 square meters with three courtyards. The buildings on the central axis are the Xianshi Gate, Dacheng Gate, Dacheng Hall, and Chongsheng Temple.On both sides, there are 198 inscriptions of Jinshi(advanced scholars) from Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties. The names, places of origin and ranks of 51,624 Jinshi are engraved, which are precious physical materials for studying the imperial examination system in China. Outside the Dacheng Gate are the Qianlong Stone Drum and two stone monuments of the Qing Dynasty related to it. The main buildings in the middle courtyard are the East and West Halls dedicated to Confucius and the 13 imperial monument pavilions. The Chongsheng Temple in the back courtyard is a separate courtyard. These buildings form a complete complex of the Confucius Temple in Beijing.
The Guozijian (Imperial College) was the highest school and educational administration institution established by the state during the Yuan, Ming and Qing dynasties, also known as "National Academy". It was built in the 24th year of the Zhiyuan period (1287 AD) in the Yuan Dynasty, and was extensively repaired and expanded during the Yongle period of the Ming Dynasty and the Zhengtong period of the Qing Dynasty. In the 48th year of the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty, a group of royal buildings was added to form the present system. The overall building faces south and is a three-storey compound covering an area of more than 27,000 square meters. The Imperial College not only accommodated students of all nationalities, but also foreign students. It had played a positive role in cultivating talents of various nationalities in China and promoting cultural exchanges between China and foreign countries. Its main building is still well preserved after more than 700 years, and is the only well-preserved site of the highest school in ancient times. It is famous for its long history, unique architectural style and profound cultural connotations.