Qufu, China

Capital City

With a population of just under 622,000, Qufu is no quaint backwater. The city's economy may revolve around tourism to its Confucian sites, but the daily grind involves heavy industry, coal mining, and a bureaucracy that can be a persistent headache. While the climate is continental, with an average annual temperature of 13.6°C, the city sees a respectable 666mm of rainfall per year. Qufu is best suited for those drawn to its cultural heritage and willing to navigate its logistical challenges.