High-speed trains shoot out of Beijing’s railway station for Qufu several times a day. In late September, every seat is taken as “everyone” wants to celebrate Confucius’s birthday.
China’s great moral philosopher is said to have been born in Qufu in 555 BC. The date is uncertain too, but September 28 is the traditional day of commemoration. Confucius’s hometown lies in Shandong province, about 530 kilometres south of Beijing. The fastest train takes just two hours and four minutes. Once you arrive, you need only follow the crowds to the first of several temples dedicated to Confucius. The ceremonies begin at sunrise, with solemn processions, readings and “sacred” Confucian music.