Point : Confucius Temple |
Count:38169 |
Conforming with Confucius's modest lifestyle, the Confucius Temple is of simple Chinese architectural design with no extravagant decorations or refurbishment; let alone stone lion sculptures at the entrance. Standing outside the main chamber called Dacheng Dien, you can see a pair of long bamboo at the center of the roof. These bamboos were once used to hide books during Emperor Ching Jr-wang's reign (221~207 BC). During that time, the Emperor commanded the burning of all literature items and intellects in order to gain a better control of his subjects' simplistic minds. Thus, books were hidden inside the bamboos and placed on the roof disguised as chimney. Eversince then, the bamboo is now a symbol of the love for literature.
At the corners of the roof are carvings of crows, which are traditionally regarded as cruel and evil birds. However, Confucius believed that these birds could also be tamed if treated properly. Thus, the carvings symbolize the indifferent attitude we should adopt when we impart knowledge to others. In addition, at the middle of the stairway on both sides of the building, there are slanting platforms with protruding carving of the dragons. These platforms were once stepped on by the emperors when they travelled up and down the building.
Contrary to other typical temples, the pillars, windows and doors here have no inscriptions or carvings. It was believed that no one thought worthy of displaying their work here before the venerable Confucius' own presence. Moreover, there stands no statues of Confucius either. In the olden days, due to poor workmanship, the statues of Confucius came in all different kinds of expressions. Later on, in order to preserve the dignity of Confucius, all statues were abolished in the latter temples. Instead, memorial plaques are used. This incidence evidently shows the level of respect Confucius has received.
The temple has very few visitors except for September 28th - which is the birthdate of the great Confucius. It is also known as Teacher's Day. Ritual dances, costumes, music and other rites are performed in the morning, and several by the students. Afterwards students and parents pick cow furs known as the fur of wisdom in Chinese traditions, in the hope of good luck in their schooling or pursuit of higher education.
(02) 2592-3934
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Address: |
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No.275,Dalong Street,Datun District,Taipei City,Taiwan (R.O.C.) |
opening hours: |
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Tues - Sat : 08:30am - 09:00pm.
Sundays and public holidays : 08:30am - 05:00pm.
Contact Number: (02) 2592-3934 |
Public Commute:
Bus:
1). Jyochuan Street opening : 40, 41, 201, 215, 223, 250.
2). Kulun Street opening : 21, 26, 266, 268.
3). Daluntong Station : 41, 201, 288.
Subway:
Take Danshui Line northward and stop at Yuanshan Statioh, walk past Chende ROad and Kulun Street and you shall reach the venue. |
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