To understand better who was arguably the most influential thinker in the history of China, the best place in Beijing is probably the Confucius Temple, an age-old city landmark honoring this prominent thinker.

Not surprisingly, this is also the location of the Imperial College. For hundreds of years, the most talented students from all over the country came here to study, and prepare to land a job in the government.

Today, the temple draws in a large number of domestic and foreign tourists alike.

Exit the subway at Exit B of the ANDINGMEN station, located on Line 2 of Beijing subway. Just as you leave the station, make a left onto ANDINGMEN NEIDAJIE (Inside AnDingMen St.).

Before the city walls came down, the intersection here used to stand the An Ding Gate – Gate of Stability – from which the street is named after. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, imperial forces used to enter Beijing through this gate when they came back from a victorious campaign.