Qufu, a meditative experience

Birthplace of Confucius brings visitors a sense of peace and history.

Want to get away from the city for a quiet weekend? Take a high-speed train from Beijing on Saturday morning and make a pilgrimage to Confucius (551-479 BC)' hometown in Qufu, Shandong province.

If you are traveling in a group, you may want to rent an electric carriage to tour the city after a brief lunch. Guides in traditional Han clothes will provide short lectures in the carriage on Confucian rituals and perform the tea ceremony. The local fine tea is certainly good spiritual refreshment, and a good way to start the journey.