After an early wakeup, I took the high-speed “D” train to Ji’nan. I’ve been reading about the plans for high-speed rail in China and they want to create the largest network of this type in the world. So far, Qingdao is one of the few cities that is connected.
My destination was Qufu, the hometown of Confucius who lived 2500 years ago. It proved difficult to get there today. The first part was easy, using the high-speed rail to get to the nearest big city of Ji’nan. Next I had to take a bus. At the ticket counter they were saying something I didn’t understand when I tried to buy the ticket. It didn’t sound too good. And then the bus didn’t have the name Qufu on it, but a different city, so not a good sign. I took it anyway, I didn’t have much choice.
The bus dropped me off on the side of the road and there was a sign that said 5km to Qufu. Some other Chinese people got off the bus and headed into various taxis and vehicles. No one offered to help me or offered to share a ride. After they all left, I was there alone. One driver agreed to drive to where I wanted for an inflated price. Problem is, there are about three places with the similar name, he stopped at the nearest one, I wanted the farthest one. I had enough, and decided to walk the last 2km with all my bags. My book warned about all the people like this in the town.
Finally, I made it into town, walked past a hostel that looked good. I visited the Confucius Temple which had a steep entrance fee of $13, which I can’t say was worth it. Outside of that there are drivers and merchants all trying to get my attention. The town is such a tourist trap, in my opinion. I was kind of angry, so I just bought some instant noodles and stayed in the hostel the rest of the night.