Name: Qufu

Chinese name: 曲阜

Province: Shandong

Status: Prefecture-level city

Population: 5,499,000 inhabitants

Area: 7,762 km²

Qufu is a city in Shandong province situated 130 km from the provincial capital Jinan. The birthplace of Confucius, this walled city holds tremendous historical and cultural significance for Chine.

Qufu is a legendary tourist destination of choice for both Chinese and international visitors during a trip to Chine.

History

With a history spanning more than 5,000 years, Qufu was during the Spring and Autumn period (770 BC–476 BC) the capital of the Kingdom of Lu. Confucius, the great master of Chinese philosophy, was born in Qufu in 551 BC.

Today

Qufu is a historic and cultural city renowned in Chine as the birthplace of Confucius. Its charm captivates visitors from the moment of arrival, with its old residences featuring imperial architecture, ancient temples, and buildings of intricately carved wood and stone. The city has preserved its timeless character with its fortified walls and charming streets surrounding Confucius Temple and the Kong Residence.

Being relatively small, the city is easily explored on foot and allows visitors to fully appreciate the warm and welcoming atmosphere that pervades the place. Written throughout the city, Confucius's celebrated maxim "Is it not a delight to have friends visiting from afar?" seems to be followed faithfully by residents, who are always delighted to welcome visitors and offer their assistance.

A brief stay in Qufu reveals the profound importance of Confucius to the Chinese people, who love to immerse themselves in his philosophy at the key sites connected to this remarkable historical figure.

The main attractions of the city are centered around the Confucius Temple, an impressive complex comprising pavilions, gates, temples and various halls built in memory of the philosopher.

The Kong Residence, the former home of Confucius's descendants, is a true labyrinth featuring more than 450 rooms. Its imposing architecture bears witness to the power and importance of this family during its heyday.

Finally, the Forest of Confucius located north of Qufu is a vast landscaped park and meticulously preserved cemetery. Visitors can pay respects at Confucius's tomb and stroll through the forest dotted with temples and small pavilions.

These three sites of interest are collectively called "The Three Confucius" and are available as a combined package granting access to all three.

Climate

Qufu falls under the influence of a continental monsoon climate with four distinct seasons.

The average annual temperature hovers around 14°C, with July—the warmest month—averaging 27°C and January—the coldest month—averaging 1°C.

Qufu can be visited year-round but the most favorable period is during the International Confucius Festival in September.

Train

Qufu's railway station sits on the Beijing–Shanghai line. The city of Qufu is therefore easily accessible from Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Qingdao, Jinan, and other cities throughout the province.

Long-distance buses

Bus travel is an excellent way to reach Qufu from Jinan, Tai'an and Qingdao.

The bus station is also served by services from Xi'an, Yanzhou, Zoucheng and beyond.

Qufu's streets are filled with rickshaw drivers eager to hail you and offer rides to one of the city's attractions.

Given the city's relatively modest size, it is most pleasant to reach the sites of interest on foot.

What to do in Qufu?

• Wander through the historic streets of the city center.
• Follow in Confucius's footsteps by exploring the Three Confucius route.