Qufu Introduction

Qufu is located in the southwest of Shandong Province, It covers an area of 896 sq km. and it has a population of 630,000.Qufu is the hometown of the great thinker, statesman and educator. It is listed in the first group of 24 national famous cities of historical and cultural relics designated by the State Council.

Qufu is the legendary birthplace of Confucius; it served as the capital of the State of Lu during the Spring and Autumn Period. The Temple of Confucius, Cemetery of Confucius, and the Kong Family Mansion in Qufu, have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1994. They are the major cultural attractions of Qufu. The city also played a minor role in the Yanzhou Campaign of the Chinese communists in 1948.

Qufu has a continental monsoon climate, with four distinct seasons. In summer the highest temperature could be as high as 27 degrees, while in winter the lowest temperature could be 1 degree. Most rain falls in July. January is very dry. You’re advised to visit Confucius Temple, Confucius Residence and Confucius Forest from March to November, which is high tourism season.

Qufu’s history is directly linked to Confucius. Legend states that he was born in a cave 60km to the east of Qufu in 551BC, during the Spring and Autumn Period. Confucius settled in modern day Qufu, after years of unsuccessfully wandering through various kingdoms in hopes of influencing rulers to adopt his teachings. It was only after his death in 479 BC, that his ideas gained prominence.

The mansion and temple areas were only open to the Confucius family and visiting emperors; it was forbidden ground for commoners. As a measure of how much prestige the Kong family held, they were given the right to make laws and pass ordinances in Qufu. Over time the Kong family’s statue grew to the point where they were considered equal to the imperial family.

Over the years, the mansion and temple saw substantial expansions, turning the complex into a sprawling spectacle that occupies nearly 20 per cent of modern Qufu. Ming and Qing Dynasties architecture abound throughout the city, making strolls along Qufu’s clean streets ascetically pleasing, as well as adding to the historic charm of the city. The architecture will transport you to another time. Buildings with beautiful red and yellow tiled roofs and striking pointed eaves greet the eye.

The main south gate marks the beginning of the temple. The square just beyond the gate features a bustling market packed with vendors selling vegetable pancakes and various trinkets, it makes you wonder how good of a bargainer Confucius was