Taierzhuang Ancient Town, Zaozhuang

台儿庄古城 (Taierzhuang Gucheng)

An aerial view of Taierzhuang Ancient Town [Photo/tezgc.com]

Taierzhuang Ancient Town, dating back to the Qin (221-206 BC) and Han (206 BC-AD 220) dynasties, underwent rapid development of its economy and society due to the diversion of the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal during the reign of Emperor Wanli (1574-1620) of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). Covering an area of 2 square kilometers, it was named as the world's best town by Emperor Qianlong (1736-95) of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

The gate of Taierzhuang Ancient Town [Photo/sdta.cn]

However, the Battle of Taierzhuang in 1938, which marked the first major Chinese victory of the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression (1931-1945), destroyed the place. It was reestablished and restored in 2008.

It is the only ancient town along the Grand Canal with well-preserved wharfs and revetments. There still exists a 3-kilometer-long section of the canal in the town, which is therefore considered a "living ancient canal" by the World Tourism Organization. The town also keeps 53 World War II relics, the most of their kind in the country.

The ship-type ancient street in Taierzhuang Ancient Town [Photo/tezgc.com]

Scenic spot level: AAAAA 

Opening hours: Open all day long

Ticket price: 160 yuan ($23.19)

Location: Huaxing Road, Taierzhuang district, Zaozhuang city, Shandong

Website: http://www.tezgc.com/ (Chinese)

Online booking: http://www.tezgc.com/ydzx1.html

Note:

1. Sixty to 69-year-old people, full-time college students, and the disabled can buy half-price tickets with valid identification.

2. Chinese, English or small languages' tour guide services are available in the tourist area from 8 am to 6 pm.

3. Multiple entries within three days are allowed with your ticket.

4. Schedule your tourist route in advance.

5. Buy travel insurance.