Three Kongs Scenic Area is located in Qufu City, Shandong Province, birthplace of Confucius (551–479 BC), founder of Confucianism. It is a national AAAAA-level scenic spot and UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site added in 1994, consisting of Confucius Temple, Kong Family Mansion and Confucius Cemetery.
The Confucius Temple was first built in 478 BC on the site of Confucius’ former residence. Expanded repeatedly by emperors of successive dynasties, it features nine rows of courtyards and hundreds of halls. Dacheng Hall, the main hall, is a masterpiece of ancient Chinese architecture, famed for its exquisite dragon-carved stone pillars. The Apricot Altar marks the place where Confucius gave lectures. Thousands of stone tablets are preserved here, known as China’s second largest forest of steles.
Adjacent to the temple stands Kong Family Mansion, the aristocratic residence of Confucius’ direct descendants. Its layout combines government offices and private living quarters, with 463 preserved rooms, housing huge archives and precious relics of the Kong clan.
Confucius Cemetery, also called Kong Lin, is the world’s oldest and largest family cemetery. Covering over 200 hectares, it holds the tomb of Confucius and more than 100,000 tombs of his descendants across 2,500 years.
The whole complex perfectly demonstrates the influence of Confucian philosophy on Chinese society, architecture and education. Visitors can experience traditional rituals, admire classical Chinese buildings and learn about Confucian teachings. It is the most important pilgrimage site for Confucian culture worldwide.