Hometown of Confucius seals own destiny

Links with the ancient philosopher fuel booming tourist industry, economy

Qufu in Shandong province was the hometown of the philosopher Confucius, who lived around 2,500 years ago. This rich cultural history has played a major part in the city's economic development over the past 40 years of reform and opening-up.

"The local cultural industry has developed from a small and disorganized one to a big and high-quality one," said Yue Yaofang, executive deputy head of publicity for Qufu's Party committee.