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Hubu Mountain has long been renowned as a prime location. Xuzhou was plagued by frequent floods in ancient times. Since the Song Dynasty, the Yellow River has flowed through Xuzhou, often flooding the city and devastating the people. However, Hubu Mountain, thanks to its elevated position, was spared from the devastation. In 1624, Zhang Xuan, an official at the Xuzhou Hufen Office, relocated to Hubu Mountain to avoid the floods. Hubu Mountain's proximity to the city attracted wealthy officials and wealthy families, making it a sought-after location for the wealthy. Over time, residing on Hubu Mountain became a symbol of wealth and status, leading to the saying, "Poor in the north, rich in the south, and the wealthy live in Hubu Mountain."
The relocation of the Hufensi (Household Department) ensured that Hubu Mountain remained the economic and cultural center of Xuzhou for over 300 years, from the fourth year of the Tianqi reign (1624) to the 36th year of the Republic of China (1949). In terms of economic commerce, the relocation of the Hufensi (Household Department) to Hubu Mountain transformed the area around Xuzhou's South Gate into a vibrant commercial district. Surrounding streets, such as Upper Street (Pengcheng South Road), Lower Street (today's Jiefang South Road), Front Street (Mashi Street), and Back Street (Bazi Street), gradually developed into important commercial hubs. The once-famous Zhongshu Street, Datong Street, Tiehuo Street, and Fengchu Street also featured on this central fan. Particularly gratifying is the fact that many modern workshops and shops, such as Hongchangshun, the largest dry goods distribution center in the border region of Jiangsu, Shandong, Henan, and Anhui during the Republican era, and Li Tongmao Pickle Garden, a leading pickle manufacturer in Xuzhou, have remained intact. They bear witness to history, documenting the city's thriving commercial history. Culturally, Hubu Mountain was the cultural center of ancient Pengcheng throughout the Ming, Qing, and Republican periods. The Qing Dynasty was the most glorious. During the Kangxi reign alone, two talented scholars, both renowned for their achievements, emerged from Hubu Mountain: top scholar Li Pan and Zhang Zhupo, the commentator on the novel "Jin Ping Mei." During the Daoguang reign, a Hanlin scholar named Cui Tao further shone a new light on Hubu Mountain's culture. While Zhang Zhupo's former residence now lies in disrepair, the residences of Li Pan, the top scholar, and Cui Tao, the Hanlin, still retain their original appearance.
The warm temperate humid monsoon climate makes it suitable for travel in all four seasons.
Architecturally, Hubu Mountain boasts a variety of structures, including Xiang Yu's Ximatai (Horse Stage), the grand courtyards of officials and wealthy families, the quadrangle courtyards of the urban middle class, and the large courtyards of ordinary residents. Among these, the residences of Li Pan, the top scholar, Cui Tao, the Hanlin, the Zheng Family Courtyard, the Yu Family Courtyard, the Zhai Family Courtyard, and the Li Family Building, known as the "No. 1 Building in Xuzhou," along with the Quanjin Memorial Archway, are particularly renowned and relatively well-preserved. Over 400 well-preserved houses from the Ming and Qing dynasties, over 700 from the Republic of China period, and over 20 relatively intact courtyards remain. These courtyards and ancient houses bear witness to the vicissitudes of Xuzhou over millennia, epitomizing its politics, economy, and culture during the Ming, Qing, and Republican eras. More importantly, they represent the last remnants of the ancient city of Xuzhou.
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Zhushan Lake is a tranquil and scenic location in Changzhou, known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. The area has been developed as both a recreational space and a cultural heritage site, providing a peaceful retreat for locals and tourists alike.
Zhushan Lake is located in the central district of Changzhou, Jiangsu. You can take a taxi or bus directly to the lake. The nearest metro station is Changzhou Railway Station, followed by a short taxi ride or a 15-minute walk.
Zhushan Lake is open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the area is less crowded.
There is no entrance fee to visit Zhushan Lake. You can enjoy the lake and its surrounding park for free. Boat rides and other activities may have separate fees.
Booking in advance is not necessary for general entry, but it is recommended to book boat rides or any special activities in advance during peak seasons or holidays.
A visit to Zhushan Lake typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on whether you want to take a boat ride, stroll around the park, or relax by the water.
Currently, there are no guided tours or audio guides available at Zhushan Lake. However, the park is easy to explore independently.
Start at the lake's entrance, take a leisurely walk along the water, explore the park's shaded areas, and finish by relaxing near the boat pier for a peaceful view of the lake.
There are no special night tours or light shows at Zhushan Lake. However, the park remains open in the evening, offering a tranquil setting for a nighttime walk.
The park can get crowded on weekends and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are on weekdays, especially in the morning.
Yes, Zhushan Lake is accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors. The walking paths are smooth and wheelchair-friendly, and there are plenty of seating areas throughout the park.
Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted, and credit cards are also accepted at food stalls and nearby cafés. It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases.
There are small food stalls and cafés near the park entrance, offering light snacks, drinks, and local Chinese fare. For more dining options, you can visit the nearby downtown area.
Vegetarian options are available at the food stalls, and halal food can be found in the nearby city center.
There are a few small souvenir shops near the lake selling local crafts, postcards, and nature-related items.
You can continue your trip by taxi, bus, or metro. Changzhou Railway Station and the bus terminal are nearby for easy access to other destinations in the city or surrounding areas.
