Birthplace of Confucius given key role in Beijing’s soft power push
Economic powerhouse renowned for its mountains, coastline and cultural heritage aspires to expand its global influence
Shandong, a manufacturing powerhouse in eastern China that is home to the country’s third-largest provincial economy, is on a charm offensive to flex its cultural prowess as Beijing pins hopes on major provinces to not only rekindle growth at home but also burnish the country’s image abroad.
The province features prominently in the Foreign Ministry’s latest push to build a good Chinese narrative by showcasing regional charms.
Shandong’s cultural and natural appeal is best summed up by a sage and a sacred mountain.
But new elements like industrial tourism, the mega-event economy and overseas connections are adding new dimensions to what it can offer visitors and investors.
The province recorded 338,000 foreign visitor arrivals in the first eight months of this year, up 178 per cent on the same period last year.
Confucius, the storied ancient sage, was born in Qufu, Shandong, more than 2,500 years ago. That made the region the breeding ground for Confucianism, the philosophical root of Chinese culture, that spread around the globe. Those enlightened by his teachings about morality, harmony and rule by virtue are drawn to the province in return.
