Qufu is the hometown of Confucius, rich in historical and cultural heritage. Here is a detailed two-day travel guide for Qufu: Day 1: The Three Confucian Sites and Surrounding Attractions

Qufu is the hometown of Confucius, rich in historical and cultural heritage. Here is a detailed two-day travel guide for Qufu:

Day 1: The Three Confucian Sites and Surrounding Attractions

- Morning: After arriving in Qufu, head to the Confucius Temple, a grand temple dedicated to Confucius. It is one of the three major ancient architectural complexes in China, alongside the Forbidden City in Beijing and the Chengde Mountain Resort. You can visit attractions such as Jinsheng Yuzhen Archway, Shengshi Gate, Kuiwen Pavilion, and Dacheng Hall to experience the solemnity and depth of Confucian culture.

- Noon: Enjoy Kongfu cuisine near the Confucius Temple, such as Shili Ginkgo and Yipin Tofu, to experience traditional Confucian culinary culture.

- Afternoon: From the exit of the Confucius Temple, turn left to visit the Kong Family Mansion, the residence of Confucius’s direct descendants. It features a layout divided into central, east, and west routes, where you can see buildings like Chongguang Gate, the main hall, and the inner residence, learning about the daily life of the Kong family. Then exit from the north gate of the mansion and walk to the Yan Temple, dedicated to Yan Hui, Confucius’s most favored disciple. Visit cultural relics such as Louxiang Well and Louxiang Archway.

- Evening: You can go to Liaohe Ancient Street and take a boat ride to enjoy the immersive light and shadow show "Long Awaited Qufu" along both banks of the Liao River. You can also try popular snacks like Shizhuang grilled skewers and cloud soufflé. If time permits, you can watch the Wanren Palace Wall light show and experience the stunning effect of lights on the city wall.

Day 2: One-Day Tour of Nishan Holy Land

- Morning: Watch the opening ceremony at the gate of Wanren Palace Wall, then head to Nishan Holy Land. You can take bus No. 29 from the south gate of the Confucius Temple to Luyuan Village stop. After arriving at the visitor center, check tickets and take the shuttle bus to the east gate. The core buildings of Nishan Holy Land include the 72-meter-high statue of Confucius and the University Hall, which houses cultural spaces such as the Jixian Hall, the Way of the University, and the Seventy-Two Worthies Corridor, where you can deeply explore Confucian culture.

- Noon: Have lunch inside or near the Nishan Holy Land scenic area and taste local delicacies.

- Afternoon: Visit the Nishan Confucius Temple and Academy, where the Nishan Kunling Cave is located, traditionally believed to be Confucius’s birthplace. Then, according to your schedule, take the shuttle bus back to the visitor center to end your trip. If time allows, you can also watch related performances at Nishan Holy Land, such as "Jinsheng Yuzhen," to experience the artistic charm of Confucian culture.

Food Recommendations

Besides Kongfu cuisine, Qufu offers many other delicacies, such as Bengrou Ganfan and Qufu pancakes, which you can try during your visit.

Accommodation Recommendations

If you want to stay in the city center for easy access to attractions, you can choose hotels or guesthouses near the Confucius Temple, such as Shiyun Renjia Guesthouse. For a quieter atmosphere, you can opt for hotels near Nishan Holy Land, like Nishan Guesthouse, which offers beautiful surroundings and some supporting services of the scenic area.

Notes

The combined ticket for the Three Confucian Sites costs 140 yuan. The ticket price for Nishan Holy Land can be checked online in advance. Some attractions require advance reservations, so it is recommended to check and book tickets through official channels ahead of time to avoid delays in your itinerary.