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Qufu: A historic city steeped in Confucian culture

CGTN

Qufu, a renowned historic city in east China's Shandong Province, is the birthplace of Confucius and a key center of Confucian culture. Just a two-and-a-half-hour high-speed train ride from Beijing, Qufu blends ancient cultural relics with the rhythms of daily life, offering a rich cultural atmosphere to visitors.

An aerial view of the Temple of Confucius in Qufu, Shandong Province. /CFP
An aerial view of the Temple of Confucius in Qufu, Shandong Province. /CFP

An aerial view of the Temple of Confucius in Qufu, Shandong Province. /CFP

As the hometown of Confucius, Qufu boasts over 100 intangible cultural heritage items. The Temple and Cemetery of Confucius and the Kong Family Mansion are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, while the Grand Ceremony of Worship of Confucius is listed as a national intangible cultural heritage. The city also hosts major cultural events, such as the Nishan Forum on World Civilizations, the UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy, and the China International Confucius Cultural Festival.

A night view of Qufu, Shandong Province is seen on July 29, 2024. /CFP
A night view of Qufu, Shandong Province is seen on July 29, 2024. /CFP

A night view of Qufu, Shandong Province is seen on July 29, 2024. /CFP

Confucius family cuisine is another distinctive feature of Qufu's cultural heritage. Once reserved for entertaining distinguished guests and marking special occasions such as sacrifices, birthdays and weddings, this refined feast has evolved over the centuries into a unique example of a traditional Chinese banquet known for its elaborate etiquette and rigorous formality.

A selection of dishes from Confucius family cuisine /CFP 
A selection of dishes from Confucius family cuisine /CFP 

A selection of dishes from Confucius family cuisine /CFP 

Another local treasure is the Nishan inkstone, named after the mountain where Confucius was born. This inkstone, an exceptional traditional craft passed down through the generations, remains a hallmark of Qufu's artisanal legacy.

A Nishan inkstone is seen being crafted. /CFP
A Nishan inkstone is seen being crafted. /CFP

A Nishan inkstone is seen being crafted. /CFP

Today, Qufu's unique cultural traditions continue to reflect the wisdom and ingenuity of its ancestors, preserving their brilliance and charm for future generations.

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