In the latest episode of Lucy's Journey, American videographer Paschall Landon Douglas shared his profound reflections on visiting Qufu's Confucius Temple ahead of the Nishan Forum. 'Confucius isn't just a historical figure here—his teachings are alive in every corner of Chinese culture,' Douglas remarked, describing the temple as a 'living classroom' of philosophy and tradition.
Dating back to 478 BCE, the UNESCO-listed temple complex spans 1.3 kilometers with nine tranquil courtyards shaded by ancient pines. Highlights include the towering Dacheng Hall, the Apricot Platform where Confucius once taught disciples, and centuries-old steles bearing imperial inscriptions. 'Walking through the Lingxing Gate felt like stepping into the heart of China's intellectual heritage,' Douglas noted.
The temple forms part of Qufu's San Kong complex, a pilgrimage site for scholars and travelers alike. Douglas emphasized how the site bridges past and present: 'You see schoolchildren reciting Analects beside tourists—it shows how these ideas still shape daily life.'
With the Nishan Forum on world civilizations approaching, Douglas's insights highlight growing global interest in Confucian philosophy as a tool for cross-cultural dialogue. The temple's preservation, he added, offers 'a blueprint for honoring history while engaging modern audiences.'
