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Part 2 - Guozijian (Imperial College)
The Guozijian (???; "School for the Sons of the State"), sometimes translated as the National School, National Academy, Imperial Academy, Imperial University, Imperial College, Imperial Central School, etc., was the national central institution of higher learnings in Chinese dynasties after the Sui. It was the highest institution of learning in China's traditional educational system.
Formerly it was called the Taixue (Glazed Archway). The central schools of taixue were established as far back as 3 CE, when a standard nationwide school system was established and funded during the reign of Emperor Ping of Han. During the 1898 reform of the Qing Dynasty, the education and administration of education functions of Guozijian was mainly replaced by the Imperial Capital University (also translated as Imperial University of Peking), later known as Peking University. In 1905, Guozijian was finally shut down.
The spectacular Glazed Archway ... looks as good today as it did way way back then ....
Emperors in imperial China would also frequently visit the Guozijian to read Confucian classics to thousands of students.
Throne away from the forbidden city .... where the Emperor would preside , and read confucious teachings to eager students !
A beautiful moat surrounds the inner hall , where the emperor would preside.
The 4 bridges leading to the hall is now affectionately know as "Scholars Bridge"
Expectant parents would bring their toddlers to cross each and every of the 4 bridges in hope that one day .... one day ... their offspring would rule the world .. LOL
An ancient sun dial that is still in use !
The teaching of confucious had a huge bearing in ancient China.
U can read about this is Part 3 and the last instalment of my DongCheng District Tour.
A Tour of DongCheng, Beijing
The Dongcheng District ( ??? ; literally "east city district") of Beijing covers the eastern half of Beijing's urban core, the Old City. Its 40.6 km 2 (15.7 sq mi) area, further subdivided into 17 subdistricts, includes all that section of the Old City in...
Part 1 - Yonghe Temple
The Yonghe Temple ( 雍和宮, Palace of Peace and Harmony), also known as the "Yonghe Lamasery", or -popularly- the "Lama Temple", is a temple and monastery of the Geluk School of Tibetan Buddhism located in the Dongcheng District of Beijing , China . The buil...
re: Temple
I've been to the surrounding areas (Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City, Tiamen Square) but not to it is fascinating to see your pictures. It seems like you can spend a lot of time walking around, taking pics, and learn about the landmark's history! Very co...
Part 2 - Guozijian (Imperial College)
The Guozijian ( 国子监 ; "School for the Sons of the State" ), sometimes translated as the National School , National Academy , Imperial Academy , Imperial University , Imperial College , Imperial Central School , etc., was the national central institution o...
Part 3 - Confucius Temple
Confucius (551–479 BC) was a Chinese teacher, editor, politician, and philosopher of the Spring and Autumn period of Chinese history . The philosophy of Confucius emphasized personal and governmental morality, correctness of social relationships, justice ...
The Two Flying Dragons...
Interesting to read about the Two Flying Dragons and Pearl, didn't know about that. I've seen similar designs at other sites but nothing like in your pics. Did you join a tour or did you go explore by yourself? -MW
Traces
of dragon carvings and having the imperial throne in the compound speaks of the significance of the place especially to the Emperors of the Qing Dynasty. More so when u think of it , since the Qing Dynasty is ruled by Manchurians , who placed much emphasi...
Thank you my friend ...
Flamenco, Your pictures made me to return to China. Thank you. Love this country with it's little details that makes a true experience. Someday I plan to go back, with time. Cheers, Nilo
Although
u will find more crowds every where u go .... Domestic tourism has exploded with Beijing being a top destination ! 5000 years of History does make for lotsa intricate details .... Too much to take in , too little time !
a wonderful tour
Great pictures. I've never been to Beijing, but your pics make me want to visit soon. Thanks for sharing your tour. Regards, ED-209
