Zhoucun Old City, under the administration of Zibo City of Shandong Province, holds the reputation as the "birthplace of Shandong commerce." Once visited by Qing emperor Qianlong in 1775, the provincial and local government under the Qing Dynasty established a commercial port here in 1904. Known as the "dry port" for its strategic location along many overland trading routes, trade in Zhoucun flourished in the early 20th century, and it became an important center for bankers and well as silk and tobacco merchants. The Zhoucun Old City became a national AAAA tourist site in 2008, featuring museums, shops, restaurants, and cultural performances. [Photo by Lu Na/China.org.cn]

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