Hometown of Confucius welcomes summer surge in study tours

Qufu, the hometown of Confucius that is now a county-level city in Jining, Shandong province, is experiencing a boom in educational tourism this summer, as the city leverages its cultural heritage to bring Confucian philosophy to life for a new generation.

From January to July, the Confucius Temple, Confucius Mansion, and Nishan scenic area attracted 560,000 study tour visits, according to statistics provided by the county government.

The Confucius Museum in Qufu, Shandong province, uses XR film experiences that allow students to explore the ancient era virtually. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

At the Confucius Temple, students gain hands-on experience in transcribing quotes from the Analects and practice archery, which the ancient philosopher saw as a skill through which one could observe virtue.

Meanwhile, the Confucius Museum is offering XR film experiences that allow students to explore the era virtually.

Students listen to stories about Confucius' most renowned disciples, including tales of loyalty, wisdom, and perseverance that have inspired generations of Chinese scholars. [Photo by Song Yuxiang/for chinadaily.com.cn]

To tap into the region's cultural history, the Nishan scenic area has been developed around Nishan Hill. Known as Niqiu Hill in ancient times, the spot is revered as the location where Confucius was born. Now, performances bring textbook descriptions to life, depicting the wars that took place during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC).

"Standing here, I feel like I have traveled back in time," said Liu Hao, a student from Jinan, after watching the show. "The abstract strategies and patriotism in my textbooks have become real."

Students watch acrobatic performances at the Nishan scenic area in Qufu, Shandong province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The students are beneficiaries of a shift away from traditional learning. "We have shifted from rigid lectures to storytelling and interactive teaching," said Liu Jifu, a veteran study tour instructor of eight years.

The Qufu study tour development center has designed nearly 100 courses aligned with educational standards to go with its infrastructure and services management system.

(chinadaily.com.cn)