A delegation of 37 media agency representatives from Shanghai Cooperation Organization countries started a two-day tour of Qufu, the birthplace of Confucius (551-479 BC), in Shandong province on Saturday evening. [Photo by Xiang Wenjian/chinadaily.com.cn]

When asked about her first impression of Qufu, Banzragch spoke about the city's serenity. Unlike many metropolises that have been negatively affected by rapid urbanization, she noted how Qufu is still "a land of idyllic beauty".

"Considering its serenity, it's no wonder Qufu is the birthplace of Confucius," she said.

In addition to the dinner, the media group also participated in activities such as transcribing classic quotes from The Analects — a record of Confucius' ideas and sayings — with other similar activities scheduled for the next day.

Confucius, who was a scholar, educator and philosopher, founded a school of thought that proved to be deeply influential on later generations. He was also the first to set up private schools in China that enrolled students from different social classes.