Zhuozhou, China
Region: Hebei
Geographic Coordinates: 39.488700, 115.992000
Temperature Range: -40.0°C to 40.0°C (-40°F to 104°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 603535
Language: Mandarin
Zhuozhou is a city in Hebei province, China, Located about 60 kilometers southwest of Beijing. It covers an area of approximately 1, 100 square kilometers and has a rich history dating back to the Eastern Zhou Dynasty (770-221 BC). One of the most popular attractions in Zhuozhou is the Yunju Temple, Which was built during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). The temple features a tall pagoda and houses various Buddhist relics. Another must-visit destination in Zhuozhou is Xishan National Forest Park.
This park offers breathtaking views of mountains, Lakes, Forests, And waterfalls and visitors can hike or bike through various trails within the park. Zhuozhou also has several hot springs that are believed to have medicinal properties due to their high mineral content. One popular hot spring resort is Tangshan Hot Spring Resort. The city’s handicrafts industry produces high-quality ceramics that are renowned throughout China for their intricate designs and vibrant colors. Visitors can witness firsthand how these ceramics are made by visiting local workshops or museums dedicated to showcasing this art form.
food lovers will enjoy exploring Zhuozhou’s culinary scene which includes traditional dishes such as roasted duck with sesame sauce, Fried dough twists with brown sugar filling known as Mahua, Sweet fermented rice wine called Mijiu among others. Overall, Zhuozhou offers visitors a unique blend of history, Culture, Natural beauty making it an ideal destination for anyone traveling to China.
Primary Industries
- Zhuozhou is a city located in Hebei Province, China.
- The economy of Zhuozhou is diverse and includes various industries and businesses such as:
- Agriculture, known for its production of corn, wheat and fruit.
- Manufacturing, producing textiles, machinery parts and construction materials.
- Chemicals, with several chemical plants in the area producing industrial chemicals like fertilizers and plastics.
- Logistics, with many companies operating in the region.
- Tourism, with numerous historical sites and cultural attractions drawing visitors from around the world.
- Education, with several universities and colleges located in Zhuozhou offering academic programs.
- Retail trade, with many shops selling local products such as fruits, vegetables, handicrafts, and clothing items.
Noteable History
- The Battle of Zhuozhou was a significant event during the Jin-Song Wars in 1211, where Genghis Khan and his Mongol Empire defeated the Jurchen Jin dynasty.
- Zhang Xianzhong, a rebel leader during the late Ming dynasty, pillaged Zhuozhou in 1644 before being defeated by Qing forces.
- Li Hongzhang, a well-known statesman and military commander during the late Qing dynasty, spent much of his early career as an official and magistrate in Zhuozhou despite being born in nearby Hefei.
- During the Boxer Rebellion of 1900, Boxers attacked and burned down a Catholic church located within Zhuozhou before being repelled by foreign troops.
- In 1949, Communist forces led by Lin Biao launched an attack on Nationalist-held territory around Beijing-Tianjin region which included fighting near Zhuozhou known as The Pingjin Campaign.
- Chen Shui-bian’s ancestors hailed from Anxin County close to Zhuozhou although he himself is not originally from there; he served as President of Taiwan previously.
- During Mao Zedong’s Great Leap Forward campaign launched in the late 1950s that aimed for forced collectivization and industrialization policies resulted in severe famine and other hardships for numerous rural areas including those near Zhuozhou.
Museums and Things To See
- Zhuozhou Museum showcases the history and culture of Zhuozhou, featuring artifacts from the Neolithic era to modern times.
- Baiyangdian Scenic Area is known for its beautiful lakes, wetlands, and unique water-based transportation system.
- Dongfang Art Gallery features contemporary Chinese art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.
- Laozi Cultural Park is dedicated to the ancient philosopher Laozi and includes a museum showcasing his life and teachings.
- Shangguan Yunzhu Memorial Hall honors the famous Chinese writer Shangguan Yunzhu and displays her works, manuscripts, and personal belongings.
- Yuhua Palace was built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) with traditional Chinese architecture featuring intricate carvings and decorations.
- Xiong’an New Area is located near Zhuozhou city as a showcase of modern urban planning with futuristic buildings designed by world-renowned architects.
- Tianjin Ancient Culture Street features traditional Chinese architecture with shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs an hour’s drive from Zhuozhou city.
- Temple of Heaven in Beijing is located two hours’ drive from Zhuozhou city as a historic temple complex used by emperors of Ming (1368-1644) & Qing (1644-1911) dynasties for annual ceremonies to pray for good harvests.
- The Great Wall of China at Badaling Pass is one of China’s most popular tourist attractions due to its accessibility & stunning views surrounding mountainscapes located two hours’ drive from Zhuozhou city.
Cultural Events
- The Zhuozhou International Kite Festival is an annual event held in April that attracts kite enthusiasts from all over the world to showcase their unique kite designs and participate in competitions.
- Celebrated in late March or early April, the Peach Blossom Festival is a cultural event that celebrates the blooming of peach blossoms throughout Zhuozhou’s countryside with traditional performances, food stalls, and cultural activities.
- The Lantern Festival is celebrated on the 15th day of the lunar new year (usually February or March) and features colorful lantern displays throughout the city along with traditional dragon dances.
- The Dragon Boat Festival takes place annually in June to commemorate ancient poet Qu Yuan with dragon boat races, rice dumplings (zongzi), and other cultural events.
- Celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month (usually September or October), Mid-Autumn Festival is marked by mooncake-eating, lantern displays, and family gatherings to appreciate the full moon.
- During Chinese New Year celebrations, Zhuozhou hosts a variety of events including temple fairs featuring street performances and food vendors selling traditional snacks like tangyuan (sweet glutinous rice balls).
- The Lotus Flower Festival takes place from July to August at Lotus Pond Park where visitors can enjoy beautiful lotus flowers while also enjoying cultural performances such as opera shows and folk music concerts.
Cuisine
- Zhuozhou Roast Duck – a local specialty that is similar to Beijing roast duck.
- Shui Jiao (Chinese dumplings) – a popular snack in Zhuozhou.
- Guozi (Chinese pancakes) – another popular snack in the area.
- Laozhuangyuan Restaurant – known for its traditional Chinese dishes such as braised pork belly and sweet and sour fish.
- Jinjiang Palace Restaurant – famous for its seafood dishes such as steamed scallops and lobster.
- Xiangji Temple Vegetarian Restaurant – serves vegetarian dishes inspired by Buddhist cuisine.
- Hongfu Hotel Restaurant – offers a variety of Chinese cuisines including Sichuanese, Cantonese, and Huaiyang.
Note: It is recommended to check the latest travel advisories before planning any trip due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions or any other safety concerns that may be present at this time in the area you wish to visit.
Parks and Recreation
- Zhuozhou Park is a large recreational area that features a picturesque lake, pagodas, and walking trails.
- Yunju Temple is a stunning Buddhist temple that boasts of beautiful gardens and architecture.
- Xiangshan Scenic Area is an ideal location for hiking enthusiasts, offering scenic views and numerous hiking trails.
- Jiaotong Park is a small park with walking paths and a playground for children to enjoy.
- Zhuozhou Sports Center caters to indoor sports enthusiasts who are interested in activities like basketball, badminton, etc.
- Zhongshan Square serves as the perfect public square in the town center where events and gatherings can take place.
- Qianfo Mountain Scenic Area is another mountainous area that offers breathtaking views along with hiking trails for adventure seekers.
- Longfeng Mountain Ski Resort attracts skiing enthusiasts during winter months as it’s one of the most popular skiing destinations around town.
- Dahua Ancient City Ruins Park allows visitors to explore ancient ruins at an archaeological site while enjoying nature’s beauty at the same time.
- Fenghuang Lake Wetland Park provides visitors with stunning views of landscapes filled with waterfalls, flowers, etc., where they can indulge in recreational activities such as boating or fishing among others!