Confucius Temples
Confucius Temples
Chinese Name: 景东县祭孔活动
English Name: Confucius Culture Festival in Jingdong County, Puer
Location: Jingdong County, Pu’er City
The festival emphasizes the rich cultural heritage and teachings of Confucius, celebrating values such as morality, education, and respect for tradition. This annual festival typically features a variety of activities and events designed to promote Confucian values and foster a sense of community. This vibrant festival not only serves to honor Confucius and his teachings but also fosters unity within the community, promotes cultural identity, and highlights the importance of education and moral development in today’s society. It reflects the deep-rooted cultural values of the region and encourages both locals and visitors to participate and appreciate Confucian culture.
The Confucius Culture Festival in Dayao County, is an annual event that pays homage to the teachings and philosophy of Confucius, one of China’s most influential thinkers and philosophers. This festival serves not only to celebrate Confucian ideals but also to promote local culture, history, and community engagement.
The Confucius Culture Festival in Dayao County is a vibrant celebration of Confucian philosophy and its enduring relevance in contemporary society. Through a rich array of activities that blend spirituality, education, and community spirit, the festival not only honors the legacy of Confucius but also reinforces cultural identity and unity among local residents. It is a unique opportunity for both locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the profound teachings of Confucius while enjoying the cultural richness of Yunnan Province.
The Shengmian Festival, also known as the Hutian Festival, is an important celebration for the Dai ethnic minority in Shiping County, located in Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. This festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Dai people and serves as a significant occasion for social interaction, spiritual reflection, and agricultural celebration.
The Shengmian Festival is a rich celebration that embodies the cultural spirit of the Dai ethnic minority in Shiping County. Through its variety of ceremonies, communal activities, traditional performances, and culinary delights, the festival serves not only as a time for thanking the heavens for the harvest and praying for a prosperous future but also as a vital means of reinforcing social ties and preserving the unique cultural heritage of the Dai people. This lively and colorful festival highlights the importance of community, spirituality, and cultural identity within the Dai community, making it a truly vibrant part of the region’s cultural landscape.
Chinese Name: 诺邓古村祭孔活动
English Name: Confucius Memorial Ceremony in Nuodeng Village of Yunlong County, Dali
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Heqing Confucius Temple (鹤庆文庙), located within Heqing No. 1 Middle School (鹤庆一中) in the southwest corner of Heqing County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), was established in the eighth year of the Yuan Dynasty (1271). The original site of the temple was Yuanhua Temple (元化寺), which was relocated to its current site in the 29th year of the Hongwu era of the Ming Dynasty (1396). The entire area covers more than 30,000 square meters.
Heqing Confucius Temple preserves the architectural style of the Ming Dynasty (明代). The main building, Xianshi Hall (先师殿), also known as Dacheng Hall (大成殿), features a two-story, double-eaved hip roof with flying eaves and dougong brackets. Arranged along the central axis from south to north are the screen wall (照壁), the pond (泮池), the Dacheng Gate (大成门), and the Xianshi Hall. The Xianshi Hall is centered, with various structures including the Dan Platform (丹墀台), Dacheng Gate, Lingxing Gate (棂星门), pond, Li Gate (礼门), Yi Gate (义门), large screen wall (大照壁) in front, and Qisheng Palace (启圣宫), Minglun Hall (明伦堂), and Zunjing Pavilion (尊经阁) behind. The east and west sides contain the East and West Wings (东庑, 西庑), famous officials shrine (名宦祠), local sages shrine (乡贤祠), Xingxian Fang (兴贤坊), Zhengyi Study (正谊斋), Mingdao Study (明道斋), professors’ office (教授室), guidance room (训导室), lecture hall (讲堂), and dining hall (馔堂), all arranged symmetrically. There are also a lotus pond (莲池), stone hill (石山), and a Celery Picking Pavilion (采芹亭) within the temple grounds.
Heqing Confucius Temple holds historical, artistic, and scientific significance and is important for studying the architectural features and styles of the Ming and Qing Dynasties (明清时期).
In December 1987, Heqing Confucius Temple was announced as a key provincial-level cultural relic protection unit by the Yunnan Provincial People’s Government (云南省人民政府).
Heqing Confucius Temple covers an area of over 30,000 square meters and preserves the architectural style of the Ming Dynasty. The main building, Xianshi Hall (先师殿), has an area of 2,400 square meters. The central area of the main hall features a cloud-dragon stone carving embedded in the center of the imperial platform. Additionally, there are four wooden carvings of coiled dragons supported between the first and second floors of the hall, appearing to dance and play with pearls. Inside the hall, there are four columns that can be embraced by two people; these tall and sturdy columns are made of high-quality materials, with two of them said to be made of fragrant nanmu wood. A pair of couplets inscribed by Emperor Qianlong (乾隆) (replicas) hangs on the central column: “气备四时,与天地日月鬼神合其德;教垂万世,继尧舜禹汤文武作之师” (The spirit encompasses all seasons, harmonizing with heaven, earth, sun, moon, and spirits; education transcends generations, following Yao, Shun, Yu, Tang, and Wenwu as teachers).
There are three existing stone inscriptions within Heqing Confucius Temple:
The Confucius Temple is a shrine dedicated to commemorating and worshipping Confucius (孔子), a Chinese thinker, politician, and educator. Throughout different historical periods and regions, it has been known by various names, such as Confucius Temple (夫子庙), Temple of the Most Sacred (至圣庙), and Dacheng Temple (大成殿), all signifying its central theme of revering Confucius and promoting Confucianism.
Heqing Confucius Temple serves as an essential educational and cultural venue, where local scholars gather to hold examinations, lectures, and academic discussions. It played a significant role in the dissemination of Confucian culture and the education of local youths, contributing to the moral and cultural development of the area.
Heqing Confucius Temple is a critical site for preserving and studying the architectural, historical, and cultural heritage of the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The temple attracts scholars, researchers, and tourists, providing a window into the rich cultural history of Yunnan Province.
Today, Heqing Confucius Temple is used not only for educational purposes but also as a venue for cultural events, festivals, and ceremonies celebrating Confucian teachings, promoting traditional Chinese culture, and fostering community ties.
Visitors to Heqing Confucius Temple can explore its beautiful architecture, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the temple grounds, and participate in cultural activities. The temple is also an excellent spot for photography, with its historical structures and serene landscapes providing a picturesque backdrop.
Heqing Confucius Temple is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Yunnan Province, reflecting the influence of Confucianism in Chinese society. Its architectural beauty, historical significance, and educational role make it a noteworthy destination for anyone interested in Chinese culture and history.
The Wenwu Temple (文庙和武庙) is located in the southern part of Zhoucheng Town (州城镇), about 12 kilometers from Binchuan County (宾川县) in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省). The Wenwu Temple consists of two parts: the Confucian Temple (文庙), built in the seventh year of the Ming Hongzhi era (弘治七年, 1494), and the Martial Temple (武庙), established during the early years of the Qing Kangxi era (康熙初年, 1662-1670). This site has been recognized as a key national cultural relic protection unit since May 25, 2006.
A Wen Wu temple or Wenwu temple (Chinese: 文武廟) is a temple in China venerating both the patron gods of civil and martialaffairs in the same temple complex. In southern China the civil god or Wéndì (Chinese: 文帝), is Wenchang (Chinese: 文昌) and in the north it is Confucius, in both the north and the south the martial god or Wǔdì (Chinese: 武帝) is Guan Yu (Chinese: 關帝). Although temples to either the civil or martial deities alone are widespread, it is comparatively rare to have temples venerating both. Wen Wu temples were patronised by those in the Ming and Qing dynasties seeking success in the Imperial examinations, which were divided into civil and military examinations, and by those seeking advancement in those professions which can be interpreted as falling under the aegis of either god; so for example to the present day civil servants will make offerings to the civil god and policemen to the martial god.
The total area of the Wenwu Temple complex is 14,908 square meters. The Confucian Temple faces west and covers over 8,000 square meters, featuring a traditional axial layout with four courtyards. Key buildings include the wall of honor (照壁), Lingxing Gate (棂星门), Shrine of Renowned Scholars (名宦乡贤祠), Great Achievement Gate (大成门), two wings (两庑), Great Achievement Hall (大成殿), and the Chongsheng Shrine (崇圣祠), primarily constructed in the late Qing Dynasty (清朝中后期). The Martial Temple faces south and spans over 6,000 square meters, with architectural styles similar to the Confucian Temple. Its notable structures include the wall of honor, main gate, two wings, central hall, and the Wucheng Hall (武成殿), mainly dating back to the ninth year of the Qing Guangxu era (光绪九年, 1883).
The construction of the Great Achievement Hall (大成殿) began in 1494, with significant renovations occurring in 1541. The Martial Temple’s construction started in the early years of the Kangxi era, with multiple restorations and expansions over the years, including the addition of shrines and significant structural repairs in the 20th century.
The Confucian Temple is arranged in a four-courtyard layout, with the Great Achievement Hall as the main structure along the central axis. Key buildings include:
The Martial Temple, located 50 meters south of the Confucian Temple, covers over 3,000 square meters and features similar architectural styles, including:
The Wenwu Temple is one of the largest and most well-preserved ancient architectural complexes in Yunnan. It reflects the local cultural values of reverence for education and martial prowess, serving as an essential site for understanding the architectural developments and social history of Yunnan during the Ming (明) and Qing (清) dynasties.
The site was designated a provincial-level key cultural relic protection unit by the Yunnan Provincial People’s Government in November 1998 and was recognized as a national key cultural relic protection unit in 2006.
The Guandi Temple (关帝庙, Guān Dì Miào) in Dali City (大理, Dàlǐ) was established in the 17th year of the Hongwu era during the Ming Dynasty (明朝, Míng cháo), specifically in 1384. Also known as the Wumiao (武庙), this temple symbolizes Dali’s martial culture and wealth. The temple is part of the “Hedang Ancient Road” series project initiated by Yunnan City Investment (云南城投, Yúnnán Chéngtóu) and aims to become a new historical and cultural attraction in Dali.
With the development of Yunnan’s tourism industry, the Guandi Temple represents the first step in transforming Dali’s cultural tourism. This project uniquely integrates traditional Chinese culture with the millennia-old mysteries of the Bai people’s (白族, Bái zú) local culture. The temple will feature 63 of the most influential Bai ancestral statues alongside the statue of Guandi (关公, Guān Gōng) in the main hall, serving as a focal point for worshippers.
The temple’s restoration and the excavation of its historical significance ensure it goes beyond mere real estate development. As part of the celebrations for the upcoming Ethnic Festival on April 10, the first martial arts competition, an international folk music festival, and various cultural performances will be held.
The Guandi Temple is expected to rival famous sites like the Confucius Temple in Nanjing (南京夫子庙, Nánjīng Fūzǐ Miào). Spanning over 20 acres, the temple complex has expansive courtyards accommodating thousands of worshippers and is vital to the cultural heritage of Dali.
The “Hedang Ancient Road” project involves protective development on the original temple site, restoring landmarks such as the ancient wall and stone fountain. The architectural style will reflect Bai traditional residences while providing a welcoming ambiance. The project includes a sunken plaza for showcasing local cultural activities and will feature dining, cultural, experiential, and antique zones.
The grand lighting ceremony of the Guandi Temple was officiated by the renowned Taoist master Liao Dehong (廖德鸿, Liào Déhóng) from Taiwan. Incense ash from three major Guandi temples—Luoyang (洛阳, Luòyáng), Jiexiu (解州, Jiězhōu), and Dangyang (当阳, Dāngyáng)—was combined and placed in the temple’s incense burner, marking a significant cultural unification.
The Dali Guandi Temple stands as the only local temple integrating martial and Bai ancestral cultures. It aims to promote tourism, entertainment, dining, shopping, and cultural experiences while preserving traditional values. Experts highlight its potential to be a cultural tourism hub, merging ancient traditions with modern tourism.
The Dali Guandi Temple is not only a historical monument but also a unique blend of culture and tourism, ensuring a memorable visit for all.
Fengyi Confucius Temple (凤仪文庙), also known as Zhao Prefecture Confucius Temple (赵州文庙), is located in Dali City (大理市), Yunnan Province (云南省), specifically at the West Street (西街) in Fengyi Town (凤仪镇). It was first established in the 18th year of the Hongwu period of the Ming Dynasty (1385) and was rebuilt in the 12th year of the Guangxu period of the Qing Dynasty (1886). Today, it serves as the Fengyi Cultural Center (凤仪文化站).
Fengyi Confucius Temple originally had an east-west layout, facing West Street to the east and backed by the Zhao Prefecture city wall to the west. The original layout included the following features from east to west: the Great Screen Wall (大照壁), the Pan Pool (泮池), the Lingxing Gate (棂星门), the Great Success Gate (大成门), the Great Success Hall (大成殿), the Sutra Repository (藏经楼), and the rear palace (后宫). Currently, only the Great Success Gate, Great Success Hall, two side wings, and the Sutra Repository remain, with the rest having been destroyed or dismantled. Fengyi Confucius Temple is noted for its well-preserved structure, high architectural quality, and significant historical and scientific value. In December 2003, it was designated as a key provincial cultural heritage site by the Yunnan Provincial Government.
Originally, the temple’s layout was oriented east-west, with the eastern entrance facing West Street. The structure included several important buildings, including:
The existing structures include the Great Success Gate, Great Success Hall, two side wings, and the Sutra Repository.
The temple houses two ancient steles, including:
Fengyi is today known as Dali Town (大理一镇). Historically, it was eligible to establish a Confucius Temple, as it served as the seat of Zhao Prefecture, which governed both Fengyi Town and Midu County (弥渡县), thus holding a higher status than regular counties.
Fengyi Confucius Temple has been recognized as a cultural heritage site on several occasions:
The protection area includes boundaries defined by the Great Screen Wall (currently the Lingxing Gate), the southern eaves of the south wing, and the main road to the west.
Fengyi Confucius Temple is situated at West Street (西街) in Fengyi Town (凤仪镇), Dali City (大理市), Yunnan Province (云南省).
The temple is approximately 16 kilometers from the Dali City Government. Driving takes about 30 minutes.
Shiping Confucius Temple is situated on North Zheng Street (北正街) in Yilong Town (异龙镇), Shiping County (石屏县), Honghe Prefecture (红河州). Originally established during the Yuan Dynasty (元) in the Zhi Zheng period, the temple has undergone several renovations, including significant restorations in the 22nd year of the Hongwu reign (洪武) and expansions during the Jiajing (嘉靖) and Tianqi (天启) periods. With a width of 33.75 meters and a depth of 96.33 meters, the temple spans an area of 4,257 square meters and faces south. Key architectural features include the Lingxing Gate (棂星门), Pan Pool (泮池), Dacheng Hall (大成殿), Hall of the Great Teacher (先师殿), and Zunjing Pavilion (尊经阁). The stone carvings on the Pan Pool’s railing are intricate and noteworthy. The temple is currently recognized as a provincial-level cultural relic protection unit.
The Confucius Temple was first constructed in the 14th year of the Zhengzheng reign (正十四年) (1354), located east of the Zhouya area. Unfortunately, it was destroyed by conflict in the 14th year of the Hongwu reign (洪武十四年) (1381). In the 22nd year of the Hongwu reign (洪武二十二年) (1389), the temple was rebuilt. The Dacheng Hall and the east and west wings underwent renovations in the 2nd year of the Tianshun reign (天顺二年) (1458), commemorated by the inscribed “Shiping Prefecture Temple Academy Record.” Major renovations took place from the 2nd year of the Jiajing reign (嘉靖二年) (1523) to the 5th year of the Tianqi reign (天启五年) (1625). In the 1st year of the Shunzhi reign (顺治元年) (1644), Governor Liu Weishi (刘维世) and Academy Head Luo Tianzhu (罗天柱) oversaw comprehensive repairs, revitalizing the temple’s appearance, which has endured various earthquakes without damage.
The Lingxing Gate features a wooden and stone structure, measuring 31 meters in width, 3.88 meters in depth, and 13.5 meters in height. The central room is 4.25 meters wide and 3.88 meters deep, with two side rooms each measuring 3.6 meters wide and 3.88 meters deep. The front plaque reads “Lingxing Gate,” while the reverse bears inscriptions praising “德配天地” (Virtue Matches Heaven and Earth) and “道冠古今” (Way Tops Past and Present), written by Zhang Ruiliang (张瑞亮). On the side walls, “太和元气” (Great Harmony Vitality) is inscribed by Tu Yan (涂晫) during the Kangxi period (康熙), and “鸢飞鱼跃” (Kites Fly and Fish Leap) is by Liu Xuan (刘宣).
The east and west side doors measure 2.18 meters wide and 1.74 meters deep. The gate features a single eave hip roof design, while the side doors have a single eave hanging roof, both covered with blue tiles.
After entering through the gate, visitors arrive at Pan Pool, which is adorned with a single-arch stone bridge called the “Zhuangyuan Bridge” (状元桥). Pan Pool spans 20.2 meters wide and 15 meters deep, covering an area of 303 square meters. The stone bridge measures 2.8 meters wide and 15 meters long, with a railing height of 65 centimeters and pillar height of 160 centimeters.
Beyond Pan Pool lies Dacheng Hall, flanked by the Ming Officials Shrine (名宦祠) on the east and the Local Worthies Shrine (乡贤祠) on the west. Both structures are single-eave, hip-roof wooden buildings. Dacheng Hall measures 17.3 meters in width and 8.55 meters in depth, covering 147.9 square meters. It features five bays and three sections, with a roof topped with a glazed bottle and beast kiss (兽吻). The hall combines lifting beam and through-dou style, supported by nine beams and 24 columns, including six eave columns, with no dou-gong brackets.
Following the Dacheng Hall is the Hall of the Great Teacher, the temple’s central hall, measuring 16.73 meters in width and 10.9 meters in depth, covering 182 square meters. It features a single eave hip roof, originally topped with a glazed bottle and beast kiss, and covered with blue tiles. The hall is structured with five bays and three sections, employing both lifting beam and through-dou styles. It includes 12 dou-gong brackets and 24 supporting columns, with bases made of bluestone featuring intricate dragon relief carvings.
In front of the Hall of the Great Teacher is a terrace covering 174 square meters, with two dragon carvings flanking six stone steps leading to the hall, which are used by officials during the annual sacrificial ceremonies for Confucius’s birthday on the 27th day of the 8th lunar month.
Flanking the Hall of the Great Teacher are two wings, each with nine rooms. The eastern wing measures 30 meters in width, 6.2 meters in depth, and 4 meters in height, built as a wooden single-story structure with a tiled roof. Inside are tablets honoring Confucius’s 72 disciples. Behind the Hall of the Great Teacher is the Chongsheng Hall (崇圣殿) and the Zunjing Pavilion (尊经阁).
In October 1983, Shiping Confucius Temple was designated as a second batch of state-level cultural relic protection units. In December 2003, it was recognized as a sixth batch of provincial-level cultural relic protection units, officially named “Shiping County Confucius Temple and Yuping Academy” (石屏县文庙及玉屏书院).
To reach Shiping Confucius Temple, visitors can travel to Yilong Town by road from Shiping County. Local transportation options include taxis and regular bus services that run frequently from the county center to the temple.
Majie Confucius Temple is located in Majie Village (马街村), Xiaolongtan Town (小龙潭镇), Kaiyuan City (开远市), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州). The temple was originally built during the Qing Dynasty (清朝) under the reign of Emperor Qianlong (乾隆), and it underwent renovations during the Guangxu period (光绪). Covering an area of over 4,000 square meters (4000 m²), the temple complex includes several significant buildings.
The temple is composed of several key structures, including the Dacheng Gate (大成门), Dacheng Hall (大成殿), and the two wings known as Xuehai (学海). The courtyard is adorned with ancient cypress trees that provide a cool, shaded environment. In 1983, Majie Confucius Temple was designated as a cultural heritage protection site by Kaiyuan City.
Confucius (孔子), born Qiu (丘) in 551 BC and passing in 479 BC, was a philosopher, educator, and politician from the State of Lu (鲁国), in present-day Qufu (曲阜), Shandong Province (山东). He is recognized as the founder of Confucianism, which has significantly influenced Chinese history and culture, as well as having a profound impact worldwide, particularly in Southeast Asia. Confucius’s ancestor, Wei Zi Qi (微子启), was a younger brother of King Zhou (纣王) of the Shang Dynasty (商朝) and was granted the fief of Song. The sixth-generation ancestor Kong Fu Jia (孔父嘉) adopted the surname Kong (孔), and the fifth-generation ancestor Mu Jin Fu (木金父) fled to the State of Lu, where the family eventually settled.
Xiaolongtan Town is located in the northwest of Kaiyuan City and serves as a hub for transportation, electricity, and coal energy. It borders Chake Town (岔科镇) to the northwest, Xunjiansi Town (巡检司镇) and Pengpu Town (朋普镇) to the northeast, and is adjacent to Lebaidao Office (乐百道办事处) in the east and Lingquan Office (灵泉办事处) in the south. The town covers a total area of 179.44 square kilometers, accounting for 9.06% of Kaiyuan City’s total area, ranking fifth among the eight townships in the city. It administers six village committees, one community committee, 46 natural villages, and 62 village groups.
To reach Majie Confucius Temple, take a bus from Kunming (昆明) to Kaiyuan City. Once in Kaiyuan, you can hire a local taxi or use public transportation to Xiaolongtan Town. The temple is a short walk from the town center.
The Luxi Confucius Temple (泸西文庙) is located in Luxi County (泸西县), within the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州) of Yunnan Province (云南省). The temple was originally built in the 17th year of the Ming Chenghua era (1481) and was reconstructed in the 13th year of the Qing Guangxu era (1887).
The Luxi Confucius Temple (泸西文庙) features a four-courtyard layout:
The Hall of the First Teacher (先师殿) is architecturally rigorous, featuring a hip roof with a width of 25 meters and a depth of 16.5 meters, sitting on a platform that is 1.45 meters high. The Chongsheng Hall (崇圣祠) has a single eave and also employs bracket supports. In 1983, the temple was designated as a cultural heritage site in Luxi County (泸西县). The temple now includes an exhibition room for cultural relics.
The Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州) is situated in the southern Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, characterized by diverse landforms such as limestone mountains, plateaus, valleys, basins, and hills. The region experiences significant elevation changes and has a complex terrain with abundant rainfall, ample sunlight, and a mild temperature variation throughout the year, primarily featuring a subtropical plateau monsoon climate.
Due to the Tropic of Cancer traversing the region, temperatures and humidity increase from north to south, resulting in a humid and hot climate. The rainy season typically spans from May to October, while frost occurs from late November to February of the following year. Therefore, the best times to visit the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州) are in March-April and September-November, avoiding the hot and rainy summer and autumn months.
? The Luxi Confucius Temple (泸西文庙), an ancient building established in the 17th year of the Ming Chenghua era, embodies a profound historical and cultural heritage. Entering the temple feels like stepping back in time to an era that revered literature and education.
? The four courtyards of the temple are meticulously designed, with each section showcasing unique architectural styles and symbolic meanings. From the screen wall (照壁) and pond (泮池) to the Phoenix Gate (腾蛟凤起门坊) and huabiao (华表), every detail radiates an aura of ancient elegance.
? Particularly noteworthy is the Lingxing Gate (棂星门), the first gate of the temple. Its name derives from the “Lingxing” in ancient astronomy, symbolizing respect for Confucius as if worshipping the heavens, reflecting the significance of Confucianism in feudal society. The calligraphy on the gate—棂星门—displays a robust and majestic style that is truly awe-inspiring.
? Walking through the temple, the red walls and green tiles, along with the lush cypress trees, exude the beauty of time-worn elegance. Notably, the inscription on either side of the Lingxing Gate (棂星门)—“鸢飞鱼跃”—is closely related to Confucian educational ideals, allowing visitors to appreciate not only the calligraphy but also the profound impact of Confucian thought.
? The Luxi Confucius Temple (泸西文庙) is not only the second-largest Confucius temple in Yunnan Province but also a treasure of Chinese culture. Whether you are a calligraphy enthusiast or a history buff, this ancient structure rich in cultural heritage is a must-visit. Come to the Luxi Confucius Temple (泸西文庙) to experience the weight of history and the charm of culture!
Miyang Wenchang Palace (弥阳文昌宫) is a historically significant structure located in the former County Committee compound in Mile City (弥勒市), Yunnan Province, China. It faces south and originally served as an educational institution starting in the third year of the Ming Dynasty’s Tianqi era (1623). The current building was rebuilt in the fifteenth year of the Guangxu era of the Qing Dynasty (1889) and occupies an area of 214 square meters, showcasing a traditional wooden architectural style.
Miyang Wenchang Palace is located in the downtown area of Mile City, within the original premises of the former county committee. Facing south, it was first built during the Ming Dynasty in the 3rd year of the Tianqi reign (1623). Originally serving as the Mile Prefecture School, the current structure of Wenchang Palace was reconstructed in the 15th year of the Guangxu reign of the Qing Dynasty (1889). Covering an area of 214 square meters, the building is a wooden structure showcasing traditional Chinese architectural style.
The architectural design of Wenchang Palace is grand, measuring 17.4 meters in width and 12.3 meters in depth. It rests on a raised platform that is 1.9 meters high, giving it a commanding presence. The central hall features a seven-tiered stairway, enhancing the building’s layered appearance. In front of the hall, there is an approximately 80-square-meter platform known as the Tianzi Tai (天子台), providing a unique viewpoint for visitors.
The details of the building’s carvings are exquisite, showcasing the craftsmanship and dedication of the artisans. Each brick and tile reflects the artisans’ skill and respect for traditional culture. Miyang Wenchang Palace stands not just as an architectural marvel but as a historical witness, showcasing the allure of ancient Chinese architecture. It attracts numerous visitors and history enthusiasts eager to experience its profound historical influence and cultural richness.
The palace is a grand three-tiered structure with hipped roofs. It spans a total width of 17.4 meters and has a depth of 12.3 meters. The building is set on a raised platform 1.9 meters high, with a seven-step central stairway leading to the hall. In front of the hall, there is an 80-square-meter Tianzi (Emperor’s) platform.
Wenchang Palace is remarkable for its grand scale and exquisite craftsmanship. The structure’s intricate carvings and expansive layout embody the artistic excellence of Chinese architecture. The building, with its towering presence, stands as a testimony to the skill and artistry of ancient builders.
Wenchang Palace has a long history, dating back to its original construction in the Ming Dynasty. Over the years, it has undergone several renovations, with the most notable reconstruction occurring during the Guangxu reign in 1889. The palace’s current form reflects this Qing Dynasty restoration, with a triple-eaved hipped roof design. Measuring 20.1 meters in width, 11.9 meters in depth, and 24 meters in height, the building covers an area of 256 square meters. In 1998, it was designated as a provincial-level cultural heritage site.
After its construction, the palace became a central location for local scholars and gentry to worship the Wenchang Emperor, the deity of culture and literature in Chinese mythology. It also served as an academic institution for generations of Mile scholars. During the mid-to-late Republic of China era, the palace was repurposed as a school. Today, it stands as a historic site for tourists, representing a key cultural landmark in Mile City.
Wenchang Palace holds a prominent place in the cultural landscape of Mile City. As a symbol of the area’s rich history and cultural traditions, it offers insight into the development of the region’s educational and religious practices over the centuries. The palace is an essential venue for understanding Mile’s history, culture, and the spiritual beliefs that have shaped the local community.
Located beside Wenchang Palace, Jianguo Tower is another historic structure with profound cultural significance. The tower was originally constructed during the 22nd year of the Hongwu reign (1389) of the Ming Dynasty. The current building was reconstructed in 1947, based on the original architectural plans from the Guangxi Prefecture Records. The tower faces south and is also built in a three-tiered hipped roof style. It has a width of 21 meters, a depth of 15 meters, and a height of 21 meters, covering an area of 315 square meters. Like Wenchang Palace, Jianguo Tower was also designated a provincial-level cultural heritage site in 1998.
Jianguo Tower is a grand structure that exemplifies the fusion of traditional Chinese craftsmanship with modern elements. Its design is a reflection of the ingenuity of Chinese artisans, with detailed decorative elements both inside and outside the building. The combination of local ethnic aesthetics with timeless architectural traditions makes the tower a distinctive symbol of Mile City.
Jianguo Tower represents the soul of Mile City. More than just a building, it embodies the city’s rich history and cultural evolution. The tower’s design and structure speak to the city’s growth over the centuries, with each brick and tile narrating the story of Mile’s past. Today, Jianguo Tower stands as a prominent landmark, serving as a tangible link to the city’s historical and cultural identity.
To reach Miyang Wenchang Palace:
Confucius Temples
Basic Introduction Chinese Name: 景东县祭孔活动 English Name: Confucius Culture Festival in Jingdong County, Puer Location: Jingdong County, Pu’er City The festival emphasizes the rich cultural heritage and teachings of Confucius, celebratin ...
Overview Chinese Name: 大姚县石羊孔庙孔子文化节 English Name: Confucius Culture Festival in Dayao County, Chuxiong Location:大姚县石羊古镇石羊孔庙/Shiyang Confucius Temple in Shiyang Ancient Town, Dayao County The Confucius Culture Festival in Dayao County,...
Overview Chinese Name: 建水县文庙大型灯会 English Name: Lantern Festival of Jianshui Confucius Temple in Jianshui County, Honghe Location: Jianshui Confucius Temple in Jianshui County, Honghe The Shengmian Festival, also known as...
Chinese Name: 诺邓古村祭孔活动 English Name: Confucius Memorial Ceremony in Nuodeng Village of Yunlong County, Dali http://ylx.gov.cn/view/front.article.articleView/13078/32/797.html...
Overview Heqing Confucius Temple (鹤庆文庙), located within Heqing No. 1 Middle School (鹤庆一中) in the southwest corner of Heqing County, Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), Yunnan Province (云南省), was...
Introduction The Wenwu Temple (文庙和武庙) is located in the southern part of Zhoucheng Town (州城镇), about 12 kilometers from Binchuan County (宾川县) in Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture (大理白族自治州), Yunnan...
Overview The Guandi Temple (关帝庙, Guān Dì Miào) in Dali City (大理, Dàlǐ) was established in the 17th year of the Hongwu era during the Ming Dynasty (明朝, Míng...
Fengyi Confucius Temple (凤仪文庙), also known as Zhao Prefecture Confucius Temple (赵州文庙), is located in Dali City (大理市), Yunnan Province (云南省), specifically at the West Street (西街) in Fengyi...
Overview Shiping Confucius Temple is situated on North Zheng Street (北正街) in Yilong Town (异龙镇), Shiping County (石屏县), Honghe Prefecture (红河州). Originally established during the Yuan Dynasty (元) in...
Location and Historical Background Majie Confucius Temple is located in Majie Village (马街村), Xiaolongtan Town (小龙潭镇), Kaiyuan City (开远市), Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州). The temple was...
The Luxi Confucius Temple (泸西文庙) is located in Luxi County (泸西县), within the Honghe Hani and Yi Autonomous Prefecture (红河哈尼族彝族自治州) of Yunnan Province (云南省). The temple was originally built...
Overview Miyang Wenchang Palace (弥阳文昌宫) is a historically significant structure located in the former County Committee compound in Mile City (弥勒市), Yunnan Province, China. It faces south and originally...
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