Known as the “First Academy of Taiwan” (全臺首學), the Tainan Confucius Temple is one of the most important historical landmarks in the city. Built in 1665 during the rule of Zheng Jing (son of Koxinga), it was the first official Confucian academy established in Taiwan.
As we walked through the main gate, we immediately felt a shift in atmosphere. The noise of the city faded and replaced by calm courtyards shaded by ancient banyan trees.
At the heart of the complex stands the Dacheng Hall (大成殿), the main hall dedicated to Confucius. Unlike many Taoist or Buddhist temples, there is no incense smoke filling the air here. Confucian temples traditionally emphasize ritual propriety rather than daily worship practices.
We visited a museum of ancient musical instrument within the complex.
Behind and around the temple are former lecture halls and classrooms where scholars once studied the Four Books and Five Classics.
The Tainan Confucius Temple is not flashy or dramatic. Instead, it radiates calm dignity and intellectual heritage. In a city known for temples and street food, this site reminded us that Tainan was also the birthplace of formal education in Taiwan.
When we left the temple, the sun was about to set. However, there were more to explore in Tainan city.
No comments:
Post a Comment