Dunyuan Temple Introduction
Dunyuan Shrine may sound unfamiliar, but it is better known as the Guiren Confucius Temple. This is the only temple dedicated to Confucius within the former Tainan County, named after the Dunyuan Society. The Dunyuan Society was a national studies association formed by scholars in Xinfeng District, Tainan County in 1883. It wasn't until 1927 that the society members, poets, and local gentlemen together raised funds to build the temple and cast a bronze statue of Confucius for worship, making it a privately-owned Confucius temple rather than an official one. The temple features classical architecture with a swallowtail roof and has many towering longan trees. Located in a suburban area, it sees few visitors on a regular basis, making it a tranquil place to peacefully interact with the revered Sage. Each year, on the birthday of Confucius, a grand ceremony is held in turn by the five district offices within Xinfeng District (Longqi, Guanmiao, Guiren, Rende, Yongkang), which makes this privately-owned temple notable for being governed by the government.
