International visitors tour around the newly renovated Jiading Confucius Temple. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
Jiading Confucius Temple, the largest existing ancient architectural complex in Shanghai, recently reopened to the public following comprehensive renovations and hosted the opening ceremony of the 2024 Shanghai Confucius Cultural Festival.
The event attracted over 30 expats, including international students studying in Shanghai, to explore the newly renovated temple and immerse themselves in traditional Chinese culture.
"The Confucius Temple commemorates Confucius, a famous ancient Chinese politician, philosopher, educator, and the founder of Confucianism," the temple's guide introduced.
Following the guide, the visitors walked across the Zhuangyuan Bridge, otherwise known as the Number One Scholar Bridge, entered Dacheng Gate (Gate of Great Accomplishment), and toured the Dacheng Hall (Hall of Great Accomplishment), marveling at ancient Chinese architecture and learning about the imperial examination system.
A Polish exchange student from Shanghai Jiao Tong University said that she was impressed by Jiading's rich cultural heritage. "The Confucius Temple is beautiful. I learned a lot about Confucius and the imperial exams, which were incredibly challenging," she said.
During the cultural experience session, visitors were captivated by handcrafts like lacquer-painted fans and Jiading bamboo carvings. Many eagerly tried on hanfu, traditional Chinese clothing.
"It's my first time wearing hanfu. The material is comfortable, and the patterns are exquisite," said a Mexican exchange student from Shanghai University.
International students participate in a traditional Chinese culture experience activity. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]
Visitors share a smile while trying on hanfu. [Photo/jiading.gov.cn]