Temple and Cemetery of Confucius and the Kong Family Mansion in Qufu

Discovering the Cradle of Confucianism: A Guide to Qufu, China

Located in the heart of Shandong Province, Qufu is a city steeped in history and culture. As the birthplace of the great philosopher Confucius, it’s no wonder that this ancient city is home to some of the most impressive historical sites in China. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through the Temple and Cemetery of Confucius, the Kong Family Mansion, and share with you our top tips for visiting Qufu.

Must-Visit Attractions

Temple and Cemetery of Confucius

  • Address: 151 Chaoyang Street, Qufu, Shandong Province
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm (April to October), 8:30 am - 5:00 pm (November to March)
  • Ticket Price: ¥120 (around $18 USD)

This majestic temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest Confucian temple in China. With over 2,000 years of history, it’s an absolute must-visit for anyone interested in Chinese culture and philosophy.

Kong Family Mansion

  • Address: 1 Da Cheng Road, Qufu, Shandong Province
  • Opening Hours: 8:00 am - 5:30 pm (April to October), 8:30 am - 5:00 pm (November to March)
  • Ticket Price: ¥120 (around $18 USD)

The Kong Family Mansion is the former residence of Confucius’ descendants and is one of the most impressive examples of traditional Chinese architecture. With over 480 rooms, it’s a treasure trove of historical artifacts and cultural significance.

Where to Eat

De Fa Chang Restaurant

  • Address: 155 Chaoyang Street, Qufu, Shandong Province
  • Must-Try Dish: Kong Family Mansion Braised Abalone

Located near the Temple and Cemetery of Confucius, De Fa Chang Restaurant serves up delicious traditional Shandong cuisine. Be sure to try their signature dish, Kong Family Mansion Braised Abalone, a mouth-watering delicacy that’s fit for an emperor.

Old Street Snacks

  • Address: Various stalls along Qufu’s Old Street
  • Must-Try Snack: Grilled Squid and Stuffed Baozi

Qufu’s Old Street is lined with street food stalls serving up everything from grilled squid to stuffed baozi. It’s the perfect place to try some local flavors and snacks.

Where to Stay

Qufu International Youth Hostel

  • Address: 15 Wenmiao Road, Qufu, Shandong Province
  • Price Range: ¥50 - ¥150 (around $7 - $22 USD)

This budget-friendly hostel is located in the heart of Qufu and offers comfortable rooms and a lively atmosphere.

Shangri-La Hotel Qufu

  • Address: 2 Hongzhong Road, Qufu, Shandong Province
  • Price Range: ¥800 - ¥2,000 (around $115 - $290 USD)

For those looking for luxury, the Shangri-La Hotel Qufu offers stunning rooms and top-notch service.

Tips and Activities

Respect Local Customs

When visiting the Temple and Cemetery of Confucius, be sure to dress modestly and remove your hat as a sign of respect.

Learn About Confucianism

Take some time to learn about Confucianism and its significance in Chinese culture. This will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the historical sites.

Explore Qufu’s Old Town

Qufu’s Old Town is filled with charming streets, ancient architecture, and bustling markets. Take a stroll and soak up the atmosphere.

Watch a Traditional Music Performance

Catch a traditional music performance at the Temple and Cemetery of Confucius or Kong Family Mansion. It’s a great way to experience Chinese culture firsthand.

Insider Tips

  • Avoid visiting during peak season (June to August) as the sites can get very crowded.
  • Hire a local guide to get a deeper understanding of the historical sites and their significance.
  • Try to visit the Temple and Cemetery of Confucius at dawn or dusk for a more peaceful atmosphere.

Getting There

The nearest airport is Jinan Yaoqiang International Airport (TNA), which is about 120 kilometers from Qufu. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Qufu.

In conclusion, Qufu is a city that’s steeped in history and culture, and the Temple and Cemetery of Confucius and Kong Family Mansion are must-visit attractions for anyone interested in Chinese philosophy and tradition. With its rich cultural heritage, delicious local cuisine, and comfortable accommodations, Qufu is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.