Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City

Introducing Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City

Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City, located in the western part of Zhoucun City, is an ancient commercial center. A handicraft and commercial town that emerged during the economic transformation of late feudal society, Zhoucun developed into a major commercial town in northern China during the Ming and Qing dynasties, earning the nickname " The First Village Under Heaven . "

Zhoucun's ancient commerce developed on the basis of various handicrafts and agricultural sideline industries. Silk weaving is a traditional craft with a long history. Through nearly 150 years of development from the Kangxi to Daoguang reigns, Zhoucun became a prosperous town.

The Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City has been well preserved after hundreds of years of ups and downs. It has a wide range of streets, numerous shops and different architectural styles. It has been praised by experts from the China Ancient Architecture Protection Committee as " China's Living Ancient Commercial Architecture Museum Group " and has a high tourism value.

The main street of the Ancient Commercial City, also known as the Main Street, is Zhoucun's largest and oldest commercial street. Construction began during the Yongle reign of the Ming Dynasty, with the street's initial form laid in the ninth year of the Chongzhen reign. It stretches approximately two li (approximately 2.5 km) from the intersection of Sishi Street and Yinzishi Street in the south to Shuoyi Gate in the north. The Beiji Pavilion straddles the middle, dividing the street into two sections, north and south. The southern section, 400 meters in length, is the main section that remains today.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 3-4 hours

Tickets

Adult ticket: 70 yuan/person

Children's ticket and student ticket: 30 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City is an important historical trading hub that flourished during the Ming and Qing dynasties. It was known for its bustling markets, artisan shops, and as a key stop on the ancient Silk Road. Today, it stands as a well-preserved example of ancient commercial architecture and cultural heritage.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City is located in Zibo, Shandong Province. It is easily accessible by taxi or bus from Zibo city center. There are no metro stations nearby, but the city is well connected by public transport and road networks.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The city is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant, and to avoid crowds, it's ideal to visit on weekdays or early in the morning.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is around 20 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online via local ticketing platforms, particularly for peak season visits.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is not required but recommended during peak seasons or holidays. Booking a few days ahead should suffice to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 2-3 hours to fully explore Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City, including visits to the shops, historical sites, and leisurely walks around the area.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The ancient commercial streets and the well-preserved traditional architecture.
• The Zhoucun Museum, showcasing the city’s history and cultural significance.
• The old city gates and the ancient city wall that provides a glimpse into the past.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and they provide insightful information about the city’s history. Audio guides may also be available in Chinese, but English options are limited.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The old city gates offer a great vantage point for photos of the surrounding area and streets.
• The rooftops and city walls provide beautiful views of the ancient city and its architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by exploring the main commercial streets, visit the museum, and then take a walk along the old city walls. If time permits, visit some local shops to experience the local culture.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no special night tours or light shows. However, the city offers a peaceful atmosphere at night, making it a nice place for an evening walk.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site can be crowded during weekends and public holidays. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are public toilets, rest areas, and plenty of shops offering local goods. Food and water can be found in the nearby eateries, and there are cafes and restaurants offering traditional local dishes.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The attraction is generally accessible, though some areas with ancient architecture might have uneven surfaces. Assistance may be needed for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted. Cash is still common, and most shops accept it. Credit cards are not commonly accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants offering traditional Shandong cuisine, including noodle dishes, dumplings, and local snacks. Nearby cafes provide a more casual dining experience.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some of the local eateries, though halal options are limited in Zhoucun. For more variety, consider visiting the nearby city of Zibo.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several budget hotels and guesthouses in the Zhoucun area. For more luxurious accommodations, visitors can stay in Zibo city, which is a short drive away.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Qilu Ancient Road, a historical route known for its cultural heritage.
• Zibo’s Ceramic Market, showcasing traditional pottery and ceramics.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling local handicrafts, ceramics, traditional textiles, and other cultural souvenirs like handmade pottery and calligraphy items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or private car services are the easiest way to continue to nearby attractions or return to Zibo city center.
• Public buses or regional trains also provide access to nearby towns and cities.