Qufu: Worshipping the Most Sage between the Confucius Temple and the Apricot Altar

Qufu is the hometown of Confucius, home to the Three Confucius Sites. Two days and one night, between the apricot altar and ancient cypresses, you can understand the Confucian cultural tradition that has continued for two thousand years.

The Confucius Temple is the largest in China. The Dacheng Hall features double eaves and nine ridges, and together with the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City and the Heavenly Gift Hall of Daimiao, it is known as one of the 'Three Great Halls of the East.' Ancient cypresses tower to the sky, and the inscriptions are as numerous as forests, solemn and imposing.

The Kong residence was the residence of Duke Yansheng, a unified office and residence, known as the "number one family under heaven." Passing through layers of courtyards, one can understand how a family can turn ritual into everyday life.

Confucius Forest is the burial site of Confucius and his descendants, with ancient trees covering the sky and numerous steles. Strolling along the sacred path, two thousand years of incense and grass grow together.

Standing in front of the apricot altar for a moment, it is said to be the place where Confucius lectured. Thinking back to the days when music and singing never ceased, one suddenly understands why "education without discrimination" has illuminated two thousand years.

Qufu's weight lies in transforming ideas into landscapes. When you look up beneath the ancient cypresses, you will understand: some influence never relies on city walls.