Location & Access

Pan Pool, located in the heart of Nanjing’s historic Qinhuai District, sits at the entrance of the Confucius Temple Scenic Area. The address is straightforward: Walking Street, Confucius Temple, Qinhuai District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province. To get there, take Metro Line 3 and hop off at Confucius Temple Station—it’s right near Wuyi Avenue, a lively street packed with shops and food stalls. If you prefer buses, routes 4, 40, or 44 will drop you nearby.

Natural Scenery: A Half-Moon Oasis

Pan Pool is a half-moon-shaped pond nestled just in front of the grand Da Cheng Gate (the main gate of the Confucius Temple). The water here is calm and mirror-like, reflecting the temple’s rooftops and surrounding pavilions. A stone bridge arches over the pool, and locals say it’s best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the light dances on the water. In spring, willows frame the pool, while winter brings a serene, frosty vibe. At night, the pool glows softly under lanterns, creating a dreamy atmosphere.

Cultural Heritage: A Window into Ancient Schools

This pool isn’t just pretty—it’s packed with history! Back in the day, Pan Pool was a symbol of official schools. While the emperor’s school had a full circle of water (called Biyong), smaller schools for nobles could only have a “half” pool (hence the name Pan, meaning “half”). Students who passed exams would cross the bridge here as a rite of passage, called “entering Pan”—kind of like a graduation ceremony!

Confucius himself is tied to this spot. Since he was honored as the “Duke of Literature”, scholars built Pan Pool following royal standards. A poem from ancient China, “Si Le Pan Shui” (Joyful by the Pool), mentions students picking water celery from the pool and wearing it in their hats to show off their talent. Today, some temples still have stone carvings of those words near the pool—a nod to that tradition.

Extra Tips: What to See and Do

  • Bridges: The Pan Bridge has three arches, and crossing it feels like stepping into history. Try to snap a pic with the temple gates behind you!
  • Stone Carvings: Look for the phrase “Si Le Pan Shui” carved into the walls—it’s a cool mix of art and culture.
  • Surroundings: After exploring the pool, wander Qinhuai River for more sights or check out the old-style shops along the walking street.

Practical Details

  • Open 24⁄7: The pool itself is always open, but the temple area closes late (around 9–10 PM).
  • Free entry: No tickets needed! Just join the crowds.
  • Eat & Shop: Nearby streets serve everything from dumplings to tea houses. Pick up souvenirs like calligraphy sets or silk fans.

Visiting Experience: More Than a Photo Op

Walking around Pan Pool feels like traveling back in time. The mix of red walls, whispering willows, and bubbling water makes it a peaceful escape from busy Nanjing. Even if you’re not into history, the scenery alone is worth it. For a deep dive, rent an audio guide or tag along with a tour group—they often share stories about the bridge, the pool, and the students of old.

Whether you’re here for a quick Instagram shot or a slow wander, Pan Pool offers a glimpse into China’s scholarly soul. And hey, after you cross that bridge, maybe you’ll feel a little bit like a状元 (top scholar) yourself!