Zibo

Understand

History Located in the center of Shandong Province, Zibo has a history of more than 3,000 years. It was once the capital of the ancient state of Qi during the Zhou Dynasty (ca. 1046 BC to 256 BC). Qi was one of the most powerful states during the Spring and Autumn Period (770-476 BC) and the Warring States Period (475 BC-221 BC), and it established its capital in Linzi (present-day Linzi District, Zibo City). During this period, Linzi became one of the largest and most prosperous cities in the world, known for its thriving economy, vibrant culture, and advanced military and political affairs. Rise of Qi: In the 7th century BC, under the leadership of such luminaries as Duke Huan of Qi and his prime minister Guan Zhong, Qi undertook a series of reforms that fostered the development of agriculture, trade, and industry, and became the dominant force in the region. As one of the earliest academic institutions in China, the establishment of the Jixia Academy attracted scholars and philosophers from all over the country, contributing to the growth of knowledge. Linzi lost its status as the capital city in 221 BC when Qi was conquered during Qin Shi Huang’s unification of China. However, throughout Chinese history, Zibo has been an important cultural and economic center, especially during the Han Dynasty (206 BC - 220 AD) and the Tang Dynasty (618 AD - 907 AD), when it became known for its ceramics and silk industries. During the Ming (1368 - 1644) and Qing (1644 - 1912) dynasties, Zibo, and especially the Zhoucun district, became a major center of commerce and silk production, hence the name “Silk City”. Zhoucun was a major commercial center, known as the “dry port” for its key role in connecting inland trade routes. This period of economic prosperity left behind a rich architectural heritage, much of which is preserved in the ancient city of Zhoucun. In the 20th century, with the discovery of rich coal and mineral resources, Zibo transformed into an important industrial center. Zibo's industries expanded into coal mining, metallurgy, ceramics and chemicals, which remain important economic drivers in Zibo today. Zibo is known as the “Ceramic Capital” for its long history of ceramic production and the “Glass Capital” for its famous glass products. Zibo has been a leading center of ceramic craftsmanship for centuries, with its porcelain and pottery being highly regarded in both domestic and international markets.” Today, Zibo is a modern city that blends its industrial base with its historical and cultural heritage, attracting many tourists who come to explore

Getting there

By plane Zibo is a 90-minute drive from Jinan Yaoqiang International Airport. The airport bus is available in front of the Zibo Rose Hotel near the railway station. There are eight buses daily, which make airport runs between 05:20 to 17:00. Jinan Yaoqiang Airport has also begun construction of the Luzhong Passenger Terminal in Zibo City which is located on the first floor of the Guomao Mansion in northern Liuquan Lu (Zhangdian District). Jinan Yuanwu International Airport (IATA: TNA) is about 70 km away from the center of Zibo, about 1 hour by car. Jinan Airport is the main airport connecting Zibo with numerous domestic and international flights. Transportation options from Jinan Airport to Zibo:

Airport Bus: There is a direct airport bus from Jinan Airport to Zibo, the running time is about 1.5 hours, and the terminal is Zibo Long-distance Bus Station, the fare is about ¥50. Cab or Internet taxi: you can book it through DDT or other Internet taxi platform, the driving time is about 1 hour, the cost is about ¥200-300.

By bus Zibo's public bus network is extensive, covering nearly all major streets and neighborhoods. Bus stops are typically located every few blocks, making it convenient to catch a bus from almost anywhere in the city. Look for the green-and-blue bus stop signs, which display route numbers and major stops along each line. Once onboard, electronic screens will announce upcoming stops, helping you keep track of your journey. To request a stop, press the red "stop" button near your seat or pull the cord above the window to alert the driver. Tickets and fares: If you’re only planning to ride occasionally, you can pay with cash. Fares are usually ¥2-3, but you must prepare exact change as drivers don’t provide change. For frequent use, consider purchasing a Zibo Citizen Card (交通卡), which offers discounted fares and can be used on all city buses.

Routes and tips

1 Zibo Railway Station (淄博火车站), Wangshe Road, Zhangdian District, ☏ +86 533 2582026. As the main railway transportation hub of Zibo City, Zibo Railway Station is surrounded by multiple bus routes, providing convenient access to various areas within the city. It serves as an important link between long-distance rail travel and the city's public transportation network.（The name of this bus stop is also Zibo Railway Station.） (updated Dec 2024)

2 Zibo Passenger Transport Center (淄博汽车站), South side of the road, east of the intersection of Changguo Road and West Ninth Road, opposite the China Ceramic Technology City, ☏ +86 533 5202588, +86 533 2889261. It is a major transfer hub f

Getting around

There are convenient bus and cab services in Zibo city, which make it easy to go to the city center or various scenic spots from the railway station or long-distance bus station. Zibo has an extensive public transportation network that connects the city to all major attractions, train stations, bus stations and other areas. Public transportation is an affordable option for travelers who are not in a hurry. In addition, online taxis (such as DiDi chuxing) have been introduced in the city to make it easy for travelers to reach their hotels or attractions from the station.

By bus Bus routes are densely packed in the city and fares are usually ¥1-2, which may sometimes increase slightly depending on the route. Operating hours: most bus lines operate from 06:00 to 21:00, with some lines running more frequently during peak hours. Bus Card: travelers can use Zibo City's transportation card “Zibo Tong” to pay for bus fares, or use mobile payment (such as WeChat, Alipay, etc.) to pay directly by scanning the code on the bus.

By taxi Cabs in Zibo start at ¥8 (including a 2-km trip) and about ¥2 per kilometer thereafter. Night surcharge: from 22:00-05:00, cabs may charge a 10%-20% surcharge. Cabs are common and easy to find, especially at train stations, bus stations and busy downtown areas, but may require a bit of a wait during peak travel times.

Shared bicycle and shared motorcycle services These services are suitable for tourists traveling short distances.

Shared bicycles, such as Harrow Bicycle and Green Orange Bicycle, have parking spots in the city center, major scenic spots, business districts and near the railway station. Bicycles are unlocked by scanning a code on a mobile app and generally cost ¥1-2 per hour, making them ideal for tourists who want to explore the city at a slower pace, but please pay attention to traffic rules. Shared bicycles are faster than bicycles and are suitable for medium to long distance trips within the city, but there may be parking restrictions in some areas, so check the app for the nearest parking location.

By rental car Self-driving is a flexible and convenient way to travel in Zibo, especially suitable for families or tourists planning to visit attractions around the city. The roads in Zibo are well developed, and the main urban areas are in good condition, making it very convenient to drive to major scenic spots and suburbs. The main parking lots in the city are located around shopping malls, hotels and scenic spots, and the parking fee is generally ¥2-5/hour.Suggested route: it takes about 1 hour to drive

See

1 Zibo Shi Wenhui taoci Bowuguan (淄博市文会陶瓷博物馆), Zibo Wenhui Ceramics Museum South end of West Tenth Road Economic Development Zone Zibo., ☏ +86 533 218 3902, +86 15153370777, [email protected]. Tuesday to Sunday: Open to the public from 09:00 to 17:00, with last entry at 16:30, Monday closed (except on national public holidays). A large ceramics museum in central Zibo containing a number of galleries with many interesting examples of Chinese ceramics, both ancient and modern. The central hall has some particularly interesting ceramic figures of Chinese heroes, real and fictional. (updated Dec 2024) 2 Pusong Ling Ancient Home (蒲松龄故居), Liaozhai Rd, Zichuan Qu. Home of ancient author of famous horror stories. (updated Mar 2018) 3 Yuanshan National Forest Park (原山国家森林公园) (southwest of the Boshan District). This is the only national forest in Zibo. The park consists of five scenic zones: the great wall of the Qi Kingdom, the grass skiing field, the Dinosaur Valley, and the folk custom garden. (updated Nov 2024) 4 Art Museum (艺术博物馆), 23 Yinzishi Street, Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City, Zhoucun District (周村区周村古商城银子市街23号) (near the south gate of Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City), ☏ +86 533 666666, +86 533 6401968, [email protected]. Free. (updated Nov 2024) 5 Haidai Tower Zhongshuge Bookstore (海岱楼钟书阁), Qisheng Lake Park, Zhangdian District (山东省淄博市张店区齐盛湖公园), ☏ +86 533 3181677. 09:30-21:30 (summer hours from May 1). Haidai Tower is a cultural landmark that embodies the essence of Shandong's traditional culture. For the best daytime photos, head to the peak of Shangxian Bridge, where you can capture stunning views of the tower. Haidai Tower lights up around 18:30 and turns off at 23:00. If you’d like to capture the moment it lights up, be sure to arrive a bit early. The light show starts after 20:00 and is truly impressive. For souvenirs, head to the B1 level of Haidai Tower. (updated Nov 2024) 6 China Ceramics and Glazed Glass Museum (中国陶瓷琉璃博物馆), 320 Huaguang Road, Zhangdian District (Bus routes: 79, 92, 136, and 160), ☏ +86 533-2167708. 09:00-18:00 (last entry at 17:30), closed on Mondays except public holidays. As one of the largest and most comprehensive modern museums dedicated to ceramics and glazed glass in China. The museum spans four floors, with two galleries on the first floor and around six galleries on each of the remaining floors. Here, visitors can explore ceramic artworks from the Neolithic era to the present, as well as exquisite glassware from around the world and innovations brought by technological advancements. When you arrive, you can

Do

1 Red Leaf Persimmon Rock Tourism Area (山东文旅红叶柿岩旅游区), Heshangfang Village, Boshan District (Binlai Expressway Boshan Exit 100 meters westbound), ☏ +86 4006045799, toll-free: +86 5334983883. 08:00一16:30. Autumn is the most beautiful time in this tourist area. The best viewing days are from Sep 1 to Nov 30. Lushang Red Leaf Persimmon Rock Tourist Area is in a valley surrounded by mountains, with a rural atmosphere. Scenic buildings covered by blue stone masonry and red tiles are built in the mountains, and there are well-preserved Qing buildings. ¥10. (updated Nov 2024) 2 Badaju Pedestrian Street (八大局步行街) (Zhangdian District). This is a pleasant spot for a leisurely stroll, with old buildings on both sides of the street. Here, you’ll find plenty of authentic Zibo snacks and unique handmade craft shops—enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. The area isn’t very large, but has winding alleys and a lively crowd, and there are many long-established stores that may be of interest to you. If it’s your first time in Zibo, Badaju could be a great place to start. (updated Nov 2024) 3 Xiaofu River Wetland Park (孝妇河湿地公园) (Middle Reaches of Xiaofu River, Southwest of the Main Urban Area, Zhangdian District). Known for its expansive water surfaces and natural wetland landscapes, it’s a popular spot for nature lovers and families to enjoy a peaceful day outdoors. The park features walking and biking trails, along with seasonal fountain shows, making it a great place for relaxation and active exploration. Watch out for mosquitoes, though. There are music fountain shows; check the schedule in advance if you want to be guaranteed to experience one. (updated Nov 2024) 4 Tangku Cultural and Creative Park (唐库文创园), No. 1 Heping Road, Mashang Town (Middle Reaches of Xiaofu River, Southwest of the Main Urban Area, Zhangdian District). Tangku Cultural and Creative Park was converted from the original Mashang Warehouse of Zibo’s Sugar and Wine Station, which used to be a national sugar reserve storage facility—hence the name “Tangku.” Admission is free, but the location is a bit out of the way. From the train station, it’s about a 30-minute bike ride or around 20 minutes by car. If you’re visiting on a weekend, it’s best not to drive in, as parking is very limited.The park has a variety of spots, including a cat café, coffee shop, ceramics shop, bakery, tea house, a crayfish restaurant, and a store for handmade goods. Markets are held only on weekends and holidays, typically from 14:00-20:00 with stalls run by local craft enthusiasts selling things like handmade items, milk tea, an

Buy

Modern shopping centers Zhangdian District serves as the main commercial hub, showcasing a vibrant blend of retail experiences that cater to both locals and visitors. The area is home to several prominent shopping complexes, such as Mixc and Silver Plaza, which draw crowds with their wide selection of shops, dining options, and entertainment facilities. These malls host an impressive array of international and domestic brands, offering everything from high-fashion clothing and trendy accessories to the latest electronics and premium cosmetics. Shoppers can browse flagship stores for top brands, enjoy seasonal sales, and take advantage of exclusive promotions.

Ceramics For those with an appreciation for Zibo’s renowned craft traditions, the China Ceramics Center is an essential stop. This center celebrates the city’s historical ties to pottery and glass craftsmanship, presenting high-quality ceramic pieces that range from traditional to modern designs. You can find elegant tea sets, decorative porcelain, and intricately crafted vases that serve as both practical items and artful keepsakes. Also offers interactive workshops where you can learn about the techniques used in traditional ceramic-making, adding a hands-on aspect to their shopping experience. The district’s shopping complexes are more than just places to purchase goods; they are lively social hubs with cafes, food courts, and family-friendly entertainment such as cinemas and play areas. On weekends and holidays, these centers buzz with activity, creating a dynamic atmosphere that enhances the shopping experience. Whether you’re searching for the latest fashion trends, unique gifts, or a taste of local culture, Zhangdian District’s shopping venues cater to all interests and ensure an engaging day out.

Bargain and wholesale market For those who enjoy the thrill of bargaining, Huantai Market offers a mix of wholesale and retail items, including textiles, ceramics, and household goods. It’s a bustling area where negotiation is part of the shopping culture, reminiscent of larger markets in bigger cities but with a more local touch.

Specialty shops and markets For a more localized and immersive shopping experience, head to the Zhoucun Ancient Commercial City.The shops in Zhoucun are filled with treasures that reflect the region’s rich cultural legacy. You can find traditional silk garments, meticulously hand-stitched and showcasing local patterns that have been passed down through generations. Tea sets crafted by skilled artisans are on display, with delicate porcelain and intricate designs

Eat

Zibo BBQ

If you’re a fan of Zibo barbecue, you’ll find barbecue stalls everywhere in the night markets and streets of Zhangdian District. The unique feature of Zibo barbecue is that each table has a small grill, allowing diners to cook and eat the skewers as they go. Meat and vegetable skewers are slowly grilled over charcoal, then dipped in a special chili powder, filling the air with an irresistible aroma. Each evening, the smoky atmosphere at the barbecue stalls creates a cozy feeling, making it the perfect place to experience the authentic flavors of Zibo.

1 Cornfield Barbecue (Main Branch) (玉米地烧烤（总店）), 118 Manan Rd, Fujia Town, Zhangdian District, ☏ +86 13053304723. open 17:30. Zibo has five branches of Cornfield Barbecue, but due to its popularity, you may need to wait in line. It’s a good idea to call ahead and make a reservation. If you're unable to, be sure to arrive early to take a number. If your phone battery tends to run out quickly, don't forget to bring a power bank. If you forget, don't worry,there are shared power banks available all around China. You can use them once you’ve made the payment, but remember to return it after use. (updated Nov 2024)

2 Wu's Barbecue (Honggou Road Branch) (吴氏烧烤（洪沟路店）), No. 21, Honggou Road, Zhangdian District, near Honggou North Street and Honggou West Street, ☏ +86 13335219928. open 16:30. The restaurant is very close to Zibo Railway Station, just a 10-minute drive away. Wu's Barbecue has 30 branches across Zibo, but the most popular one is this location on Honggou Road. The dishes here are very affordable, and the restaurant is equipped with electric grills, so there's no need to worry about undercooked meat causing stomach issues. The restaurant does not accept reservations—you'll need to line up and order first. (updated Nov 2024) 3 Xiaohanyang Barbecue (小寒羊烧烤), First floor of the Kairui Times Building, at the southeast corner of the intersection of Renmin West Road and Xianghe Road, Zhangdian District, ☏ +86 13864332224. open 11:00-14:30,16:30-23:00. The prices at Xiaohanyang Barbecue are slightly higher compared to other barbecue restaurants, but the fresh ingredients and pleasant environment make it worth it. Additionally, the restaurant has a ventilation system, so you won’t leave with unwanted odors on your clothes. Sesame salt and garlic need to be purchased separately, as they are not provided for free. Bread slices can easily burn. It’s better to grill them when the fire isn’t too strong, which will reduce the chances of them getting overcooked. (updated Nov 2024)

Boshan Cuisine 4 Juyouz

Drink & nightlife

1 48 Bar (四十八号酒巴), Liuquan Lu (六泉路) (next to Brazilian Barbeque (巴西烤肉)). And is where Zibo's expats as well as locals head on Friday or Saturday Evenings to kick back. The beers are relatively cheap for a foreigner bar: large Qingdao bottles are ¥10. Liquor is a little more expensive at about ¥30 to ¥50 for a single shot of your favourite Vodka, Tequila or Jack Daniel's. Zibo's small expat population make most patrons usually very friendly and they will even let you play music from your phone over the sound system! There is also table football and draughts for those who love bar games. (updated Jun 2024) 2 Montana Bar (蒙大拿酒吧), No. 6 North Xiwulu Road, Courtyard 8, Building 1, Floor 1, Zhangdian District (next to Green Ear Coffee, Shangmei Third City). M-Th Su 18:00-01:00; F Sa 18:00-02:00. A cozy bar with a great ambiance and perfect lighting. Jazz music and classic movies play in the background, allowing you to sip a drink while watching a film (non-alcoholic options are also available for those who don’t drink). A variety of snacks are offered, and the atmosphere is pleasantly quiet—ideal for chatting with friends over drinks. Here’s a tip: you don’t have to stick to the menu. Just let them know your preferences, and they’ll craft a drink tailored to your taste. (updated Nov 2024) 3 Qi Wang Fu Night Club (齐王府夜总会), No. 66 Huaguang Road, Zhangdian District, ☏ +86 15562635105. 19:00 - 03:30. Most taxi drivers are familiar with this location, so getting there should be easy. Entrance is typically free for ladies and costs around ¥10-20 for men. Known among foreigners as the "bouncy club," it offers a lively atmosphere for those who enjoy dancing. The dance floor is larger than in most Chinese nightclubs, with plenty of local techno music. Drinks are on the pricier side, so locals often arrive after they have already done most of their drinking elsewhere. There are also frequent games or competitions hosted by local emcees to keep the energy up between dance sessions. (updated Nov 2024) 4 Second Cosmic Velocity Coffee & Pub (第二宇宙速度 Coffee&Pub), No. 61, Dongyi Road, Zhangdian District (next to Vientiane Hui BeiBo Dental Hospital). Daily 18:00-02:00. During the day, this place is a warm and inviting coffee shop. Their lattes are especially worth a try. It’s a great spot to get some work done, use the Wi-Fi, or just take a break with friends. After 19:00, it shifts into a bar, serving a wide range of cocktails, including some unique Chinese herbal mixes if you’re up for something different. Drinks ¥48-68. (updated Nov 2024) 5 Haida Tower Whisky Bar (海岱楼威士忌酒吧),

Sleep

For those planning to stay overnight in Zibo, there are numerous accommodation options to consider. Zibo’s attractions are spread out, so if you want to explore different parts of the city, look for lodging near central transportation hubs—Zhangdian District is particularly convenient. This area offers easy access to shopping, dining, and public transport, making it a great base for your stay. If you’re planning a longer visit and want to explore more of the surrounding districts, you may need to change accommodations to experience different areas. Fortunately, Zibo has a wide variety of hotels, so whatever your interests, you’ll likely find a suitable place nearby. Starting in 2024, all licensed hotels in Zibo are legally required to accommodate foreign visitors (with exceptions for specific restricted areas). However, some small inns may be hesitant due to unfamiliarity with the registration process or the perceived hassle of handling foreign guests. In such cases, you could try showing the hotel front desk the relevant regulations in Chinese. High-end hotels generally won’t have these issues; their staff are usually more experienced in serving foreign travelers, whether in the city center or outlying areas. During peak travel seasons or national holidays, such as the Spring Festival or National Day, accommodation prices in Zibo typically increase, and some popular areas may see rates double. Nevertheless, with ample hotel resources, early bookings usually secure available rooms, and even during peak seasons, travelers can generally find suitable accommodations.

Budget 1 Yinzuo Jingsu (Zibo Liuquan Road Branch) (银座精宿（淄博人民公园八大局店）), Address: No. 166, Liuquan Road, Zhangdian District,, ☏ +86 533 2302888. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. If you are visiting Zibo for the first time and have too much luggage, consider making your hotel your first stop. Most hotels offer free luggage storage, so you don’t need to worry about losing your valuables. You can choose to store them in the safe at the hotel front desk. The hotel is conveniently located near Bada Bureau, with easy access to transportation and within walking distance. Popular attractions such as People's Park and Haidai Tower Zhongshuge Bookstore are nearby, making it very convenient to visit any destination! ¥140. (updated Dec 2024) 2 Jinjiang Inn (Liuquan Road Branch) (锦江之星酒店(柳泉路店)), No. 57, Liuquan Road, Zhangdian District, ☏ +86 533-3186111. Check-in: 12:00, check-out: 12:00. This hotel is located in the bustling city center and offers spacious rooms equipped with modern amenities, including

Go next

Jinan is the capital of Shandong Province, known for its springs and referred to as the "City of Springs." You can reach Jinan from Zibo by high-speed train in approximately 40 minutes (fare around ¥50) or by bus, which takes about 1.5 hours. From Jinan Railway Station, you can easily visit attractions such as Daming Lake, Baotu Spring, and Thousand Buddha Mountain. Qingdao is famous for its beautiful coastline and German-style architecture, making it a modern coastal city. The high-speed train from Zibo to Qingdao takes about 2 hours (fare around ¥100), while a long-distance bus takes about 3.5 hours. The Qingdao Beer Museum, Badaguan Scenic Area, and Zhanqiao Pier are must-see attractions. Weifang, known as the "World Kite Capital," hosts the annual International Kite Festival every April, drawing numerous visitors. It takes just 30 minutes by high-speed train from Zibo (fare around ¥40). The Kite Museum and Yangjiabu Woodcut Prints Village are famous tourist destinations in the city. Tai'an is home to Mount Tai, considered the foremost of China's Five Great Mountains and a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site. From Zibo, the high-speed train to Tai'an takes about 1 hour (fare around ¥65). The best starting point for climbing Mount Tai is Hongmen, and you can also take a sightseeing bus from Tianwaicun to reach the Middle Gate of Heaven, reducing the climbing distance. Linyi is renowned for its rich revolutionary culture and natural scenery. You can travel from Zibo to Linyi by high-speed train in approximately 3 hours (fare around ¥180–200). Popular attractions include Mengshan, Zhujia Village, and the Yimeng Revolutionary Memorial Hall. Binzhou is about 1 hour away from Zibo by car, making it a great option for a short self-driving trip. The Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve is the highlight here, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying the wetland landscape. Dongying is home to China's second-largest oil field, Shengli Oilfield, and features the beautiful Yellow River Estuary Wetlands. From Zibo, a bus ride to Dongying takes about 2 hours, with a fare of around ¥50. The Yellow River Estuary Ecotourism Area and Qingfeng Lake Park are worth visiting in Dongying. Yantai is a coastal city famous for its wine and seafood. From Zibo, the high-speed train to Yantai takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes (fare around ¥150), or you can opt for a long-distance bus, which takes about 4 hours. Penglai Pavilion, Zhangyu Wine Culture Museum, and seaside bathing beaches are Yantai's major attractions. Weihai, located at the easternmost point of the Sha