Confucian figures in foyer of Shangri-La Hotel Qufu [Photo by Bruce Connolly/chinadaily.com.cn]

Qufu had obviously invested considerably toward developing the local economy through tourism. With increasingly discerning domestic visitors while trying to entice international tourists, quality accommodation accompanied by professional levels of service creates an atmosphere where people will go on to recommend travel to that city. This is particularly important with today's instant sharing of images and comments on social media, something I do regularly.

Hotels increasingly incorporate locally-inspired design. The Shangri-La where I would stay opened in 2013 with an interior concept taken from the three key principles of Confucian philosophy. These represent order, harmony and hierarchy. I was informed it included Six Arts from the disciplines of rites, music, archery, chariot racing, calligraphy and mathematics. It certainly again created fascinating scenes for photography.

That first evening within the hotel's Shang Palace restaurant I was introduced to more of the etiquette on dining advocated by Confucius. It was an opportunity to experience once again fine examples of Kong cuisine earlier enjoyed in Tianjin. Confucius said, "Food can never be too good and cooking can never be done too carefully" and there I was in the very home of such unique dishes.