Qufu, the hometown of Confucius, is a city located in the eastern province of Shandong, China. The city is famous for being the birthplace and final resting place of Confucius, the great Chinese philosopher and educator, whose teachings have influenced Chinese society for over 2,500 years.
As a result, Qufu is a popular tourist destination for those interested in Confucianism, Chinese history, and culture.
Top tourist attractions in Qufu include:
The Temple of Confucius
This is the largest and most famous Confucius temple in China, and it was first established in 478 BC, during the Zhou dynasty. The temple ground was expanded to its current size around 10 centuries ago during the Song Dynasty. The temple covers an area of 16,000 square meters and features 466 rooms and halls.
The Cemetery of Confucius
This is the final resting place of Confucius and some of his descendants, and it is located about 1.5 kilometers north of the Temple of Confucius. The cemetery covers an area of over 3,000 acres and contains over 100,000 tombs. Solemnity is enhanced by the dense woods consisting primarily of cypress, a symbol of longevity in Chinese culture.
The Confucius Mansion
This is the former residence of the descendants of Confucius, and it is the largest residential complex in Qufu. The mansion covers an area of 16,000 square meters (16 acres) and features over 463 rooms and halls.
In addition to these attractions, Qufu is also known for its delicious local cuisine and traditional Chinese festivals such as the Confucius Cultural Festival, which takes place every September.
Overall, Qufu is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Confucianism, Chinese history, and culture.
